Is it typical to tip a tattoo artist?

Question

I am getting a tattoo soon and I'm not quite sure if I should tip the artist. It is his business, so he keeps what he charges.

Answer 1

Yes, tipping is customary. It doesn't always have to be a money tip, however. My husband is a tattoo artist, and he gets cash tips, art books, dvd's, art supplies, food, whatever you can think of. A thoughtful gift is sometimes better than cash, but it's always nice to let the artist know you appreciate what they're doing for you.

And because I know someone will try to say this, they do not have a huge profit margin.

Answer 2

You should always tip your tattoo artist!! Other wise you come off as an asshole!! Not to mention you go back and they might do a sub par job! 15-20% is good but if your really happy go for 25%! Which is 150! So yeah go for it! that is above standards and for sure will stoke the artist! Way to go! I whanna see this chest piece!

Answer 3

i've heard lots of different things from my friends who tattoo. some say that they don't really ask for a tip and the best tip is referrals. this is because they understand that some people save a long time just to afford the tat so a tip is money they don't have. i've also heard 15% is good and 20-25% is really good. it's really up to you. if you think the artist did a great job and did a lot of work preparing the art for you, then leave a good tip. it's really up to you.

Answer 4

well not all artists keep what they charge. unless you get a tattoo from the owner of the shop, the artist splits the money with the shop 50-50. any tips you give him he gets to keep for himself. tattoo artists are people too. they have wives and kids too. tipping at least 20 buks on any tattoo is acceptable. on large or multiple sitting pieces it is nice to get 20 buks a sitting and maybe a 50 spot at the finish of the piece as a thank you bonus. it is like a restaraunt. if you like the service, tip accordingly. that 20 buks could have bout his kids another meal.

Answer 5

I tip regardless, they're doing a service for you, like a waiter or
a nail salon worker. I am never sure how artists get paid so to be on the safe side, i tip , im sure the money covers their equpitment and stuff, Ecspecially if im totally thrilled with the
outcome, its a nice way to let them know that you really liked their art.
So my rule of thumb is for every 50 bucks, i tip 5-8 dollers.
depending on the size and price.

Answer 6

He doesn't keep everything, just to let you know. He has bills and supplies to pay for too.

You are supposed to tip if you are satisfied with the work and the artist. How much depends not only on the cost and time needed to complete the work but based on what you feel is reasonable.

Usually tips are around 15%.

Answer 7

I've always tipped my tattooist $20-$50 for all the work that I got done and he owns the shop too... Every time that I go back for more work he gives me great deals... Like $200 for a 5 hour tattoo that should have cost me $500...

Answer 8

I just recently found this out myself, but yes most tat artists expect a tip. Now whether or not you feel they deserve one is a different story. I would still probably tip them, but the amount would depend on how happy I was with the service, etc.

Answer 9

yes. It is standard proceudre to tip a tattoo artist orpiercer, just like you would tip a server. Tip them based on the service that they did, if they were friendly, and if you love the tattoo that they gave you!

Answer 10

Always tip your artist. I don't break out the calculator and work out percentages, but I always drop an extra 20 buck. If you return to that artist, he will be more likely to give you deals.