15 to 20% of the tattoo price. On a $200 piece that is $30 to $40.
20 to 25% or more for a custom design, a long sitting, or an artist who reworked the concept until it was right.
$0 only when the artist genuinely waves it off, or when the price was already set to include everything and they say so.
Custom vs flash
A custom design is hours of drawing before the needle ever touches you. Tip on the full price to cover that work, not just the time you sat.
Multi-session pieces
You can tip per session as you go, or in a larger lump at the end. Either is fine; just do not let the last session be the only one you tip.
The artist owns the shop
Tip them anyway. Owning the chair does not change the custom, and shop rent, supplies, and time all come out of the price you paid.
A touch-up
Many artists include a free touch-up. A tip on a free touch-up is a kind gesture, not an obligation, unless it turned into real rework.
United States (default)
Tipping a tattoo artist is customary in the US. These ranges are compiled custom, not a wage survey.
High-demand artists
For a sought-after artist with a waitlist, 20% or more is normal and helps keep the relationship for future work.
Outside the US
In some countries a tattoo tip is smaller or unused. Follow local practice; this page is the American norm.
How much do you tip a tattoo artist?
Plan on 15 to 20% of the tattoo price in the US, with 20% the solid default and more for a big custom piece.
Do you tip on a big or expensive tattoo?
Yes. Tip 15 to 20% of the full price. On a large multi-session piece you can spread the tip across sessions.
Do you tip a tattoo artist who owns the studio?
Yes. Ownership does not change the custom; overhead and design time come out of the price either way.
How much do you tip on a $500 tattoo?
About $75 to $100 at 15 to 20%. Round to a clean number in cash at the end.
Is it rude not to tip a tattoo artist?
In the US it is expected, so no tip reads as a poor sign unless the price was explicitly all-inclusive. When money is tight, tip what you can and be honest.