Starting a tattoo studio is an exciting adventure! There are so many dreams to chase, like financial success, fame, and career satisfaction. But let's not forget the important stuff—do you know how to price tattoos? Getting the price right is key. Charging too much might send clients running, while charging too little could mean missing out on the profits you need to grow your business. In this article, we’ll dive into tattoo pricing to help you set just the right prices.
On average, tattoo artists will charge between $50 and $300 for a one-hour session. However, a prudent action would be to walk in several studios within your area to find out what they charge. This way, you even get to see how their shops are set up and run.
Generally, tattoo pricing is determined by the following factors:
1. Design and Ink Color
Tattoos with several vibrant colors versus black and grey tend to be more expensive. This is because colored inks often require multiple layers to achieve the desired brightness and longevity, which means more time and effort from the artist. Additionally, colored inks can be more costly than standard black ink, further driving up the price.
Also, more sophisticated or intricate designs that could require more time, shading, and detailing are also more expensive. These complex designs demand a higher level of skill and precision, often involving multiple sessions to complete, which justifies the higher cost. The intricacy of the design can also mean using a variety of needle sizes and techniques, adding to the overall expense.
2. The artist’s experience and popularity
How proficient are you with the needle? Do your clients leave feeling happy and satisfied? Do some of them come back for more tattoos? If you answered yes to these questions, then you are a talented tattoo artist, and you should feel confident in charging higher rates.
Naturally, as your popularity increases, so can your prices. However, if you are an apprentice or a beginner who hasn't yet mastered complex designs, consider setting lower rates. You can increase your prices once you have gained enough experience to create impressive styles.
Top tattoo tip: Ensure that you always have digital templates of tattoo consent forms and get them signed by your customers.
3. Tattoo size
Tattoos can be categorized as small, medium, or large. Small tattoos, comparable to the size of a finger or a ring, typically range from $50 to $100. Medium tattoos might cover parts of the thighs, sidearms, or sections of the sleeve.
Large tattoos can span the entire upper torso or extend from the shoulders down to the lower back. These extensive designs generally start at $1000. Essentially, the larger the tattoo, the higher the cost.
In bustling cities like Hollywood, where celebrities and affluent individuals abound, tattoos are a popular indulgence. These clients are willing to spend hundreds or even thousands on the latest designs, allowing tattoo artists in these areas to charge premium rates, provided they remain competitive.
Conversely, tattoo artists in less developed areas may need to set lower prices to attract customers. If this approach proves unsustainable, relocating to a more vibrant city with higher demand for tattoos might be necessary.
You should certainly charge higher rates for intricate tattoo designs. These designs not only require more time but also often necessitate the use of various inks, some of which can be quite costly.
Additionally, some clients may want tattoos in sensitive or difficult-to-reach areas, such as the inner lip. These locations require a high degree of precision and also take more time. As a result, you should charge more for these tattoos. On average, studio owners charge at least $200 for tattoos placed in complex or hard-to-reach areas.
As you can see, tattoo pricing is influenced by numerous factors, with your experience being paramount. Even if you reside in a remote location, if your work captivates clients, some will be willing to pay the additional costs to reach you.
From the outset, be transparent about your charges during consultations. This ensures your customer won't be shocked if the rate exceeds their expectations.
Ultimately, it's crucial to keep your rates competitive. Overcharging compared to your competitors can drive clients away, unless you are certain it's the right strategy. Otherwise, happy inking sessions!
The smallest tattoos under 2 inches cost anywhere between $30 and $100. A medium one, usually 4-6 inches, costs between $150 and $450. The biggest tattoos are over six inches and attract a price of $500 and upwards.
As a studio owner, you can ask your customer to choose a smaller tattoo design or less vibrant colors to cut costs. Additionally, remind them to avoid choosing sensitive areas as they demand a lot of time and patience, resulting in a steeper price.
What can I sell in a tattoo shop?
Besides charging clients for tattoos, artists can supplement their income by selling branded t-shirts, bumper stickers, bobble hats, and anything that clients are likely to show off.