Ink-redible Etiquette: The Dos and Don'ts of Tipping Your Tattoo Artist

As someone who has collected a fair share of tattoos over the years, I've learned a thing or two about the etiquette of tipping my tattoo artists. From researching their individual policies to showing my appreciation with a generous tip, I've come to understand the importance of following proper tattoo tipping protocol.

But for those who may be new to the tattoo world, or for those who simply want to make sure they're doing things the right way, it can be a bit of a mystery. That's why I've put together this guide to the dos and don'ts of tattoo artist tipping.

Do: Research Your Tattoo Artist's Tipping Policies

Before you even step foot in the tattoo studio, it's a good idea to do your due diligence and research your tattoo artist's policies on tipping. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect, and it will also help you avoid any awkward or uncomfortable situations.

There are a few different ways you can go about researching your tattoo artist's tipping policies:

• Ask the artist directly. If you're comfortable doing so, you can simply ask the artist about their tipping preferences. This is probably the most straightforward approach, and it will give you a clear understanding of what the artist expects.

• Check the studio's website or social media. Many tattoo studios have information about their policies on their website or social media pages. If you can't find anything there, you can always reach out to the studio and ask.

• Ask other tattoo enthusiasts. If you have friends or acquaintances who are also into tattoos, they may be able to give you some insight into the studio's tipping policies. Just keep in mind that every artist and studio is different, so what works for one may not necessarily work for another.

Do: Show Your Appreciation with a Tip

Once you've done your research and have a good understanding of your tattoo artist's policies, it's time to show your appreciation with a tip. While the exact amount you should tip can vary depending on a variety of factors, a general rule of thumb is to tip between 15% and 20% of the tattoo cost.

Of course, this is just a starting point. If you're getting a particularly large or complex tattoo, you may want to consider tipping more to show your appreciation for the artist's extra time and effort. On the other hand, if you're getting a small or simple tattoo, you may be able to get away with tipping on the lower end of the scale.

Ultimately, the key is to show your appreciation in a way that feels comfortable and genuine for you. If you're on a tight budget, a smaller tip is better than no tip at all. Just be sure to communicate your appreciation in some way, whether it's through a tip or a heartfelt thank you.

Don't: Skimp on the Tip

While it's important to be mindful of your budget, it's also important to remember that Denver tattoo artists are professionals who deserve to be compensated fairly for their time and skill. Under-tipping, or not tipping at all, can send the wrong message and may result in subpar service or even damage to your tattoo.

To avoid any potential issues, it's a good idea to tip generously and show your appreciation for the artist's hard work. This will not only ensure that you get the best possible service, but it will also help to build a positive relationship with your tattoo artist.

Don't: Assume Tipping is Included in the Price

One common misconception about tattoo artist tipping is that it's already included in the price of the tattoo. However, this is not typically the case. While some studios may include a gratuity in their prices, it's usually not expected or required.

Tipping is an additional gesture of appreciation that is separate from the cost of the tattoo itself. So when you're budgeting for your tattoo, be sure to factor in a tip in addition to the tattoo cost. This will ensure that you have enough money to show your appreciation for the artist's hard work.

Wrap Up!

Tattoo artist tipping can be a bit of a tricky subject, but with a little bit of research and consideration, it's easy to show your appreciation in a way that feels genuine and appropriate. Just remember to do your research, tip generously, and don't assume that the tip is already included in the price.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you have a positive and rewarding tattoo experience, and you'll also be helping to support the hardworking professionals who bring your tattoo visions to life.