How Much Should You Tip a Tattoo Artist? UK, US and Canada Etiquette

You have sat through the session, the tattoo looks great, and now you are at the counter wondering how much to tip a tattoo artist, or whether to tip at all. The answer depends heavily on where you are in the world. Tipping a tattoo artist is standard in the United States, common in Canada, and appreciated but not expected in the UK and much of Europe.

Here is a practical guide to tattoo tipping etiquette, country by country.

United States: 15 to 25 percent is standard

In the US, tattoo artists are treated like other personal service workers such as hairdressers, and tipping is expected. Most guidance puts a normal tip at 15 to 25 percent of the price of the tattoo, with 20 percent a common figure.

• A $200 tattoo: around $30 to $50.
• A $500 session: around $75 to $125.
• A $1,000 piece: around $150 to $250.

Many artists in the US are self-employed and pay the studio a share of each tattoo, so tips make up a meaningful part of their income. Our guide to tattoo artist salary explains how artists are paid.

Canada: similar to the US

Tipping culture in Canada is close to the American model, and a tip of around 15 to 20 percent is widely considered normal for a tattoo.

United Kingdom: appreciated, not expected

The UK has a very different tipping culture. Tattoo prices are generally set to cover the artist's time, and no one should make you feel obliged to tip. That said, many clients do leave something as thanks, particularly after a long session or a custom design, and a tip of around 10 percent is a generous gesture.

Other ways UK clients commonly show appreciation include:

• Bringing drinks or snacks for the artist on a long day.
• Leaving a detailed Google review.
• Tagging the artist and studio when posting healed photos on social media.
• Recommending them to friends and coming back for future work.

Europe and Australia

In most of Europe and in Australia, tipping is not built into the culture in the way it is in North America. As in the UK, it is a kind extra rather than an expectation. When travelling, a quick look at local norms, or simply asking the studio, avoids any awkwardness.

Common tipping questions

Should I tip on the full price or after the deposit?

Tip on the total cost of the tattoo, including the deposit you paid when booking.

What about a large piece done over several sessions?

Either tip at the end of each session based on that session's cost, or leave one larger tip when the piece is finished. Tipping per session is often appreciated, as the artist is paid for each day of work.

Do I tip for a touch up?

Many studios offer a free touch up within a set period. If you are not charged, a small tip is a nice way to thank the artist for their time, though not required.

Do I tip if the artist owns the studio?

Yes, if tipping is normal where you live. The old idea that you should not tip business owners is not widely followed in tattooing.

Cash or card?

Cash goes straight to the artist. If you tip on card, check that the studio passes the full amount on.

What if I am unhappy with the tattoo?

A tip is a thank you for good service, so it is reasonable to tip less or not at all if the experience was poor. The most useful thing you can do is talk to the artist calmly. Many problems can be fixed with a touch up. For warning signs to look out for before you book, read our guide to tattoo studio red flags.

Budget for the tip in advance

If you live somewhere tipping is expected, include it when you plan your budget, so the final bill is not a surprise. Our guide to how much a tattoo costs breaks down typical prices, shop minimums and hourly rates.

Tipping ranges reflect common guidance published by U.S. News and UK tattoo industry commentary. Customs vary and are always at your discretion.