Tattooing can be an expensive endeavor. While there are several factors that go into calculating the cost, prices for designs can range widely. Be sure to discuss these with your artist so you have an accurate estimate for what the price point may be.
Size
Selecting the ideal tattoo size can be a major decision. While it isn’t the only factor, it will affect how it appears and feels on your body as well as affect its cost. For instance, don’t get a large and intricate design for your wrist that won’t completely fill in all available space! If you’re uncertain of the size you want for your tattoo, print out several different sizes and see where it looks best. Alternatively, ask your tattoo artist for assistance in picking the ideal design. Calculating your tattoo’s size is straightforward: multiply its height by its width at its longest points. This will give you the total area in square inches. The chart will also let you know the type of needles commonly used for tattoos, so be sure to have one handy before visiting the studio. Incorrect needle use can cause your tattoo to look terrible and could even cause permanent damage. Ink can be more costly than you might think, so be sure to spend only what is necessary on a tattoo that suits both its size and location. Before beginning payment to the artist for services rendered, ensure you’re content with both dimensions and placement before moving forward with payment. Before getting your tattoo, it’s wise to experiment with various font styles and sizes. Fortunately, this can be done online with plenty of choices available.
Placement
Tattoo placement is an integral component of the design process. Your decision depends on factors like size, visibility, and pain tolerance; thus, consider all these aspects when making your choice. When considering your tattoo design, you should factor in any changes to your body such as pregnancy or weight loss that could cause it to warp or stretch. In such cases, an unsuitable option may be presented. These are great choices for concealing a tattoo while still looking stylish. If you’re worried about flaunting your new tattoo, selecting a private location could be best. Your tattoo artist can offer advice on the ideal placement for your design. If it is large or has intricate detail, it may be wise to select a smaller area for placement. It is especially essential if you plan on concealing your tattoo for a job interview. Many companies will not hire people with offensive or visible tattoos when wearing uniforms. You’ll be able to assess how it appears from various angles and how well it blends in with your outfit. You can also use an app to help locate the perfect spot for your tattoo. Some programs, like Tattoo You, allow you to project the design onto a screen so that you can preview how it would appear. Tattoo placement is essential, yet it can be challenging to know where to begin.
Artist
Furthermore, the artist involved in the process plays an important role in setting the final cost. First, select an artist who can create the design you envision for your tattoo. When selecting a tattoo design for yourself, be honest about what you envision and the area where the ink will go. Doing this will enable the artist to craft the best possible tattoo for you and reduce the chances that you need to compromise on what design you originally had in mind. Typically, experienced artists charge up to $100 an hour for their services. On the other hand, novice or new artists may begin charging lower rates as they build their portfolio and skill level. When selecting an artist for your tattoo, the amount of time they spend creating the design can greatly influence its cost. The more intricate and detailed the design is, the longer it may take them to finish it; therefore, factoring in extra fees when choosing who will create it is key when selecting a technician. In addition to the time an artist spends on your tattoo, they must also use special equipment. This may include single-use needles and sterilizing equipment – helping keep the area clean and free of infection; however, this may prove expensive for the artist to continue using such items. Many shops require a minimum cost for tattoos, which typically ranges from $50 to $100. This allows them to restock needles and ink supplies while purchasing new sterilization equipment. On average, simple black outline tattoos cost around $150.00; larger designs require more time and skill to ensure they look perfect; these could include full sleeves, back tattoos, and other custom pieces.
Ink
Tattoo ink consists of pigments and a carrier solution to help the pigment adhere to the skin. Pigments may be composed from various chemical compounds, while carriers such as water, alcohol, or witch hazel aid in spreading the ink throughout the skin. Pigments used in cosmetics are typically iron oxide, cadmium red, or malachite. Some of the original blue pigments were created from chromium and copper salts; however, these aren’t always utilized today. Pigments are composed of minerals and compounds found in printer ink, car paint, or other industrial products. Once mixed with the carrier substance to form ink, these pigments become permanent markers. Some carriers contain glycerin or alcohol, while others do not. These ingredients help transport pigments from the needle to your skin’s surface in an even mix and free from pathogens; plus, they make application much smoother. Recently, the European Union passed regulations restricting certain ingredients used in tattoo inks to prevent exposure to hazardous elements. One such restriction includes banning two commonly used green and blue pigments known as Blue 15:3 and Green 7. While the European Commission claims these changes will create uniformity across Europe, some tattoo artists are protesting the decision as it will make their work harder.
