Short answer: Tattoo artists in the US are usually tipped 15 to 25% of the price of the piece. With no cash on you, the options are: send it to the artist directly, scan a code at the station, add it to the card payment, or bring it to the next session.
How much to tip a tattoo artist
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| $200 small piece | $30 to $50 |
| $500 half-day session | $75 to $125 |
| $1,000 full-day session | $150 to $250 |
| Free touch-up | $20 to $40 |
These are customary amounts in the United States, in US dollars. They are a guide, not a rule: tip more for exceptional service.
Do you have to tip a tattoo artist?
It is expected in the US. Artists typically hand 30 to 50% of the price to the shop and buy their own needles, ink and supplies. For work over several sessions you can tip each session or once at the end; say which you plan to do.
Can you tip a tattoo artist by card?
Many shops are cash-preferred and add a surcharge for cards. Because the artist and the shop split the ticket, a tip added to a shop card payment may be split or delayed, so artists generally prefer the tip to come to them directly.
4 ways to tip a tattoo artist without cash
- Send it to the artist directly. Most artists list Venmo, Cash App or a tip link on their Instagram or booking form.
- Scan a code at the station. A QR code at the artist's station pays them, not the shop, and takes Apple Pay or a card.
- Add it to the card payment. Ask first whether the whole tip reaches the artist.
- Bring it to the next session. On multi-session pieces this is normal.
What a tip QR code does
If a tattoo artist shows you a QR code, point your phone camera at it. A payment page opens in your browser, you choose an amount, and you pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. You do not install anything or create an account, and it works with cards from other countries.
If you cannot tip on the day
Tell the artist at the start of the session. Large tattoos mean large tips, and "I will send it tonight, what is your handle?" is a completely ordinary thing to say.
Outside the United States
In the UK 10% or a round-up is appreciated and not assumed. In Australia tips are welcome but uncommon. In Japan do not tip.
Do you work as a tattoo artist?
Your tickets are high, so the tip is high, and nobody walks around with $150 in cash. A tip added to the shop card payment may be split with the shop or reach you late. Clients want to pay you directly and often have no easy way to do it.
See how tattoo artists take card tips with a QR code: where to put it, what to write on the sign and how to mention it.
Common questions
How much should I tip a tattoo artist?
Tattoo artists in the US are usually tipped 15 to 25% of the price of the piece.
Do I have to tip a tattoo artist?
It is expected in the US. Artists typically hand 30 to 50% of the price to the shop and buy their own needles, ink and supplies. For work over several sessions you can tip each session or once at the end; say which you plan to do.
Can I tip a tattoo artist with a card or Apple Pay?
Many shops are cash-preferred and add a surcharge for cards. Because the artist and the shop split the ticket, a tip added to a shop card payment may be split or delayed, so artists generally prefer the tip to come to them directly.
What if I have no cash to tip a tattoo artist?
Tell the artist at the start of the session. Large tattoos mean large tips, and "I will send it tonight, what is your handle?" is a completely ordinary thing to say.