As there is a lot of confusion from time to time when it comes to the price of a tattoo, in the following text I will explain all points that need to be taken into account when calculating the price of a tattoo. Here’s a list of some factors included in the price of your tattoo that you may not be aware of:
TATTOO MATERIALS
Besides the basics like machines, ink and needles, other supplies are included in the price of your tattoo, such as stencil paper, studio furniture, a phone with a good camera for photos, computer, iPad, etc…
STUDIO EXPENSES, MATERIALS AND STAFF
A non-exhaustive list that includes internet, rent, phone, special cleaning supplies, employees, advertising, accounting, insurance, water, electricity…
TAXES AND FEES
As to everyone else.
ARTWORK
Many people are unaware of the cost of art supplies; for example simply the price of a good quality paper. The cost of creating and studying designs, which includes books, analog and digital materials and the time required is extremely high. It is a separate work on its own.
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT AND CONTENT PRODUCTION
Responding to messages and emails, creating and consuming social media content all require time and put tattoo artists under extreme emotional pressure to achieve better numbers and engagement on their social platforms, as it has a significant impact on their careers. This is work in itself and it can be very exhausting.
DAILY EXPENSES OF A TATTOO PROFESSIONAL
Despite of the appearance, tattoo artists are also human beings with basic needs to be met, such as food, housing, clothing, transportation, leisure, and health.
HEALTH
Health deserves to be mentioned individually. In addition to chronic pain affecting 99% of tattoo artists due to years of poor posture and diet, there is also the daily risk of contamination through clients’ blood. In an extremely competitive market, the daily pressure to produce and provide the best possible work and experience to clients can undermine the emotional health of many tattoo artists.
REST
It may not seem obvious to many, but it’s necessary for tattoo artists to have a minimum level of economic security to be able to take breaks without feeling guilty about not working. This is essential to ensure the health of their body and mind, which guarantees longevity in a profession.
Thank you very much to all the clients who understand and respect this. Many thanks to all the tattoo artists of the past, present and future for keeping the craft of tattooing alive.
