Split tip with others
Quick reference — common tattoo totals
| Tattoo cost | 15% tip | 20% tip ★ | 25% tip | Total (20%) |
|---|
How much should you tip a tattoo artist?
The standard tip for a tattoo artist is 20% of the total cost — the same benchmark as restaurants and most personal services in the US. For a $200 tattoo, that's $40. For a $500 piece, plan on $100.
What makes tattoo tipping unique is the shop's commission split. Most tattoo artists work on a 40/60 or 50/50 split with the studio — meaning on a $300 session, the artist may only keep $150–180 before expenses. Your tip goes 100% to the artist, no split. It's one of the most direct ways to compensate them for their skill.
Tip 15% for standard line work or a simple design executed without issue. Tip 22–25% for custom artwork, complex shading, cover-ups, or when an artist went above and beyond. Never go below 10% for satisfactory work.
Factors that affect how much to tip
- Custom vs flash: Custom designs require hours of drawing and concept work before you even sit in the chair. Tip higher (22–25%) for original artwork than for flash designs off the wall.
- Session length: A 6-hour back piece is more physically and mentally demanding than a 30-minute wrist tattoo. Long sessions merit a stronger tip.
- Artist experience level: Apprentices charge much less than senior artists but still depend heavily on tips. Tipping 25–30% for an apprentice is both kind and appropriate.
- Cover-up complexity: Covering existing tattoos requires extra skill and planning. Treat cover-up work the same as custom — 20–25% minimum.
- Cash vs card: Many studios charge a 2–3% card processing fee that reduces the artist's actual take-home. Tipping cash ensures your artist receives the full amount.
Tattoo tipping etiquette
Tip at the end of each session, not just the final one for multi-session projects. Cash is the preferred method — hand it directly to your artist rather than leaving it with the front desk. If you're unsure whether to tip the shop owner, the answer is yes: tipping owners is still standard practice even though they don't have a commission split.
If you're unhappy with the result, have the conversation with your artist before leaving. A good artist will want to address your concerns. Adjust your tip based on how the situation is handled — don't simply skip it, as the artist still invested significant time and materials.
No Tax on Tips: Since July 2025, tip income is federally tax-exempt for service workers earning under $160,000/year. Your tattoo artist benefits from tipping even more than before — 100% of your cash tip is now tax-free income for them.