Tattooing is retraced back to history. The translation in the Tahitian word tatua means “to leave a mark,” like a rite of passage. It is a form of body art. We need to find out how good it will be if we give our tattoo artist credit. That’s where the idea of “tipping” tattoo artists comes in.
Tipping a tattoo artist is common practice in the tattoo industry and is a way to show appreciation for the artist’s work. How much will that cost? We will discuss that in this article and more.
For example, if the total cost of your tattooing is $250, then your tip will be 20% of it. So, you will be accrediting your tattoo artist that way with an additional amount of $50.
$50 may seem like a lot but it is also a generous tip for well-done work.
If you’ve got a big, complicated piece (a sleeve, back, or lap), or if the artist spent a lot of time on your tattoo, consider giving more than 25%. Unless your artist was terrible, maybe keep that tip money for yourself.
Ultimately, the decision of how much to tip is up to the individual. It’s important to remember that tipping is a personal choice, and it’s always a good idea to consider the service provided and your budget when deciding on an amount to tip.
Why Should I Tip My Tattoo Artist?
Tipping a tattoo artist is a common practice in the tattoo industry, and there are several reasons it is essential to tip.
First and foremost, tipping is a way to show appreciation for the artist’s hard work and skill. Tattooing is a highly skilled profession, and tattoo artists spend a lot of time and effort perfecting their craft. Tipping is a simple way to acknowledge the artist’s talent and dedication.
Secondly, tipping is a way to ensure good service in the future. A tattoo artist who receives a generous tip is more likely to go above and beyond to provide excellent service to the customer. It could be anything; when they listen to the customer’s ideas and preferences, providing aftercare advice, and follow-up appointments.
Tipping is also a way to support the tattoo industry and help artists make a living wage. Many tattoo artists rely on tips to supplement their income, as running a tattoo shop can be expensive. By tipping, customers are helping to support the artists and the industry.
It’s worth noting that the amount to tip is ultimately up to the individual and their budget. However, it’s important to remember that even a small tip can make a big difference to the artist. The industry standard for tipping is 20% of the total cost of the tattoo, but ultimately the most important thing is to show appreciation and support.
When Is The Best Time To Tip A Tattoo Artist?
The best time to tip a tattoo artist is at the end of the tattoo session. That is when the artist has completed the work, and you are satisfied with the results. It is customary to tip in cash, either at the end of the session or immediately after the tattoo is finished and you’ve had a chance to see it.
It allows the artist to benefit from the extra income and shows your appreciation for their work.
It is also possible to tip in advance, but it’s worth considering that the artist might yet complete the work to your satisfaction, so it may be more appropriate to wait until the end. It’s also a good idea to check the tattoo shop’s policy on tipping before you go in for your appointment.
Ultimately, the most important thing is showing appreciation and support to your tattoo artist; tip timing is less important than tipping.
What Happens When I Don’t Tip?
Not tipping a tattoo artist is not a big issue, but it appears impolite and unappreciative of the artist’s hard work and skill. Most tattoo artists rely on tips to supplement their income, as running a tattoo shop can be expensive. By not tipping, you are not supporting the artist and the industry.
Not tipping could also make the artist less likely to provide excellent service in the future. A tattoo artist who feels unappreciated may be less inclined to go above and beyond to provide the best service possible.
It’s important to remember that tipping is a personal choice, and it’s always a good idea to consider the service provided and your budget when deciding on an amount to tip. If you need more time to tip, you can still show appreciation by leaving a positive review or sharing your experience with friends and family.
In short, not tipping is not a problem, but it’s considered impolite and not supporting the artists and their industry. It could also affect the quality of service the artist provides to you in the future.
Why Is Not Tipping A Tattoo Artist Considered As Impolite?
The obvious reason why not tipping a tattoo artist is considered impolite is simple. This is because it is seen as a lack of appreciation for the artist’s hard work and skill.
It also shows a lack of support for the artist and the industry and not following the tradition and culture of the tattoo community. Meanwhile, doing the tipping is a way to acknowledge the artist’s talent and dedication, ensure good service in the future, and support the artist’s livelihood.
Do Tattoo Artists Rely On Tips As A Supplement To Their Income?
Many tattoo artists rely on tips as a supplement to their income. Many tattoo artists charge for their work by the hour or by the piece, but running a tattoo shop and maintaining equipment can be expensive.
Tips help make up for gaps in income. Some tattoo artists may have a low stream of clients, and tips can help make up for gaps in income.
However, it’s worth noting that some tattoo shops have a different policy on tipping, and the artists may rely on it less than in other shops, and it also depends on the location, the artist’s reputation, and the type of shop.
It’s also worth noting that not all tattoo artists rely on tips as a supplement to their income. Some may have a steady client base and a higher pay rate and may rely less on tips to supplement their income.
In short, many tattoo artists rely on tips to supplement their income, but it varies from shop to shop and artist to artist.
What Other Methods To Use Other Than Tipping?
Tipping your artist well shows that you value their skills and are grateful for their work on your body. It goes a long way towards establishing a positive relationship between you and your tattoo artist, which means you’ll be more likely to get satisfied if you consider working with them in the future.
There are several methods other than tips that you can use to show appreciation and support for your tattoo artist. Some of these include:
Leave a positive review: Write a review on the tattoo artist’s website or social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, or Yelp. Positive thoughts help to promote the artist’s work and attract new clients.
Purchase merchandise: Many tattoo artists sell t-shirts, stickers, or prints of their work. Purchasing merchandise is a great way to support the artist and take a piece of art home with you.
Refer friends and family: Share your positive experience with friends and family interested in getting a tattoo. This can help to bring new business to the artist.
Give a gift card: Give a gift card to the artist’s favorite coffee shop, restaurant, or any other shop they like as a token of appreciation.
Support the artist’s other projects: Many tattoo artists have other creative projects outside of tattooing, such as painting, drawing, or photography. Supporting these projects is a great way to show appreciation and support the artist’s overall work.
Give a small tip with a note of appreciation: Even if you can’t afford to tip a large amount, a small tip with appreciation can still mean a lot to the artist.
How do I tell my tattoo artist – “I’m low on tipping budget?”
Communication is key. So if you can be bold enough, it’s important to communicate your budget constraints before the tattooing process begins. Here are a few ways you can do this:
Be honest and upfront: Let your tattoo artist know that you’re on a tight budget and would still like to get a tattoo, but you may not be able to tip as much as you would like. They may be understanding and willing to work with you.
Suggest alternative forms of appreciation: Let your tattoo artist know that while you may not be able to tip as much, you would still like to show your appreciation in other ways. This could include leaving a positive review, referring friends and family, purchasing merchandise, or supporting the artist’s other projects.
Be respectful and understanding: Remember that the tattoo artist is a professional, and they are providing a service to you. Be respectful and understanding of their time and efforts.
By communicating your budget constraints before the tattooing process begins, you can avoid any confusion or discomfort during the tattooing process. It’s also a good idea to come prepared with a budget in mind and let your artist know how much you are comfortable with tipping and stick to it.
Conclusion
Tipping is a way to show appreciation and support for a tattoo artist’s hard work and skill. It’s a tradition and culture in the tattoo industry. Most artists rely on tips as a supplement to their income.
While it’s not mandatory, it’s a good idea to come prepared with a budget and communicate it with your artist. Remember that even a small tip with a note of appreciation can be meaningful for the artist.
