Most artists charge per square inch, making tattoo size one of the most important factors that affect the price

Simpler designs will cost less, while more detailed designs that require colour, filling, shading, etc. will cost more

If your tattoo requires colour or special inks (such as UV ink), it will cost more

If you need a consultation or customization, it will cost more

If your artist is experienced, it may cost more

Some styles of tattooing will cost more

Tattooing uses a LOT of equipment - the tattoo machine, needles, inks, gels and ointments, and aftercare products such as wipes and wraps - to name just the basics. To add to this, a lot of materials used for tattooing are single-use disposable items, such as needles and aftercare materials. Additionally, tattoo equipment and furniture (such as a tattoo chair or bed) need to be adequately cleaned and properly maintained. All of this can wrack up quite a bill and usually does at good studios where quality and hygiene are prioritized within the tattooing process