When you shop for a tattoo, what is it that you're shopping for exactly? For most people, naturally, money talks. So...they shop for the right price. But, how does one determine value? How does someone who is not a professional in a particular industry really establish price?
Well, we compare that value to examples of quality and to the person who is going to do said work. We look at their portfolio and their resume to determine how much experience that person has. Seems logical, right? So, why is it that when someone of high quality caliber quotes a price - the same people who are searching for high quality work are suddenly aghast when it comes down to the value of the project? In the tattoo industry, there is a misguided belief that there is a disparity between artists who charge by the piece versus by the hour. But, on the contrary, they are one in the same. The client just doesn't partake in the deductive process the artist experiences whilst consulting about a project. The reality is, experiences and price will vary from artist to artist depending on skill and speed. Generally speaking, the average (well-experienced) tattoo artist will charge about $100 per hour. How much work can be done inside each hour will vary from artist to artist. So, if you think by shopping for the "right price" you will be getting the tattoo you want, chances are you are most likely sacrificing quality for quantity. And, in time, you get what you pay for. That is just the painful truth. When a tattoo artist says they charge by the hour, that's just the basic rate. They still have to consider your project and the work involved and figure out how long it will take them to do it. An artist who charges "by the piece" is essentially doing the same thing. They look at the project consider how much effort (aka time) it's going to take them and go from there. The prices end up being very close anyway if you're working with someone who is worth a damn. So, don't be "cheap". If you really can't afford the average cost of a good tattoo, you probably shouldn't be getting one anyway. It's just the responsible thing to do. For your pocketbook and your skin. Go where the quality is. Where the great reviews are. Where you can see the work for yourself. Keep in mind that, while many tattoo artists are great and they may be able to execute a great tattoo, not everyone is capable of doing YOUR tattoo. Do your homework. Have they done that style of tattooing before? Have you seen previous tattoos they have done in that style? How was their "bedside manner"? Do they work in a sterile environment? Don't get me wrong, every tattoo artist has to start somewhere. Even in a kitchen. But, that just brings me back to my point. You get what you pay for. By all means, shop around. But, please dont compare hobbyist work and prices to the professionals. You won't see Walmart products with Gucci prices. Likewise, you won't find Gucci quality at Walmart prices. If you do, run far away. But, if you choose to buy into it, just be prepared. It's likely not the real deal and, in time, you will start to see just what I mean. So, why bother saving that dollar now if you will only end up having to spend that and more on a coverup later? Just my thoughts. Be smart. Be responsible. And, of course, Be thrifty. Just don't be cheap. Invest in your art. After all, it IS a lifelong commitment.
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AuthorProfessional Tattoo Artist in Nampa, Idaho. ArchivesCategories |