Tipping in various service industries has been very common, and tattooing is not an exception. However, people usually are confused or uncertain whether it is a necessity, custom, or simply an option to pay tips to a tattoo artist. Understanding tipping etiquette and what stands behind it will help you clarify whether it is rude not to tip your tattoo artist.
Tattoo Tipping Norms
The practice of tipping the tattoo artist is quite acceptable and much appreciated, though it’s not always expected directly. The normal percentage a tattooist receives in tips varies from 15% to 25% off the total amount charged for your tattoo. This can vary depending on several factors, such as the intricacy of the design, the reputation of the artist, and your satisfaction level with the whole experience and the eventual outcome.
Why Tipping Matters
Any tattoo artist belongs in the class of talented people who require a lot of time, a lot of effort, and a lot of creativity in their work. Where most other service providers will charge customers for their services, tattoo artists are usually freelancers or pay for space in a studio; thus, their pay may not be salaried with benefits attached to it. Tipping would then become a means of showing them appreciation for their artistry, for their dedication, and not to mention how personal their work can be. It also includes time spent in consultation, design preparation, and the actual tattooing process itself.
When Tipping May Be More Important
Certain circumstances may call for tipping to be especially important. The artist could have fallen out of their way to please special requests, fit you into an overscheduled appointment calendar, or offered especially good service in some other way; in these cases, a tip is a significant way to say thank you. Similarly, if the tattoo is particularly intricate or time-consuming, tipping generously may reflect your appreciation for the hard work and skill involved on the part of the artist.
When Tipping Might Not Be Expected
While tipping is almost always expected, there could be instances where it’s not expected at all. For instance, higher-end tattoo studios include gratuity in the pricing, so it never hurts to ask. Also, if you have built a long-term relationship with a particular artist and have agreed to some sort of pricing terms, then that would change the tip expectation. But in most other cases, even small tips are considered respectful.
How Not Tipping Affects Artists
Not tipping for a tattoo artist’s good service is considered impolite. This might even set a precedent in your relationship with the artist that he won’t be as enthusiastic about doing subsequent work on you. Tipping, therefore, will keep you in good books with your artist and his studio in an industry powered by words and reputation.
This post was written by J Michael Taylor. J Michael Taylor is an artist and owner of Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery. Black Amethyst is the best amongst the best tattoo shops in St Petersburg FL shops. They provide an art-first approach to custom tattooing in a gallery setting.
