
Can You Ask Your Tattoo Artist for a Discount?
Tattoos are a form of art and self-expression, but they can also come with a hefty price tag. If you’re on a budget, you might be wondering if it’s possible to ask your tattoo artist for a discount. While it’s not uncommon for people to negotiate prices for goods and services, the etiquette surrounding asking for a tattoo discount can be a bit tricky.
Before we dive into whether or not you can ask for a discount, it’s important to understand the factors that can affect tattoo pricing. The size, complexity, and placement of your tattoo can all impact the cost. Additionally, some tattoo artists charge more for custom designs or for their level of experience and skill.
Read on to find out whether you might be able to snatch a discount for your next piece of ink.
Will My Tattoo Artist Give Me a Discount?
Whether or not your tattoo artist will give you a discount ultimately depends on a few different factors. While it’s not uncommon for artists to offer discounts for repeat clients, referrals, or for certain events or promotions, every artist is different in terms of their policies and pricing.
Some artists may be willing to negotiate on price if they have a cancellation or if you’re interested in a design that they’ve been wanting to do. Others may have a set price for their work and are less willing to budge on the cost.
It’s important to keep in mind that tattoo artists rely on their work as their primary source of income, so they may be hesitant to offer discounts that could potentially devalue their time and effort. If you’re planning on asking for a discount, be sure to do so respectfully and with an understanding of the value of their work.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that some artists may have different pricing for different types of clients. For example, some artists may offer a lower price for military members, students, or those in the service industry.
Overall, while it’s not a guarantee that your tattoo artist will offer a discount, it never hurts to ask. Just be sure to do so with tact and respect, and keep in mind that their time and talent are valuable assets that deserve fair compensation.
The Etiquette of Asking for a Discount
When it comes to asking for a discount on a tattoo, it’s important to approach the situation with tact and respect. While it’s understandable to want to save money, it’s important to keep in mind that tattoo artists are skilled professionals who put a lot of time and effort into their craft.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when asking for a discount is to acknowledge the value of the artist’s work. Rather than simply asking for a lower price, it can be helpful to express how much you appreciate their talent and the artistry they bring to the table. By showing an understanding of the value of their work, you’re more likely to be met with a positive response.
It’s also important to be honest about your budget and what you can afford. Rather than trying to haggle or negotiate without disclosing your budget, be transparent about what you’re able to pay. This can help the artist understand your situation and potentially work with you to find a price that works for both of you.
Another important aspect of asking for a discount is to establish a good rapport with your artist. This means being friendly, respectful, and communicative throughout the tattoo process. By building a positive relationship with your artist, they may be more inclined to work with you on pricing.
Finally, it’s important to be open to compromise and be willing to negotiate a price that works for both you and your artist. Rather than simply asking for a lower price, be open to discussing the different factors that go into pricing and be willing to make concessions if needed.
Overall, while it’s not a guarantee that your tattoo artist will offer a discount, it’s possible to increase your chances of success by approaching the situation with tact, honesty, and respect. By acknowledging the value of their work, being transparent about your budget, building a positive relationship, and being willing to compromise, you may be able to work out a price that works for both you and your artist.

Different types of Discounts that Tattoo Artists May Offer
If you’re considering asking your tattoo artist for a discount, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the different types of discounts that artists may offer. While every artist is different, here are a few examples of the types of discounts you may encounter:
- Flash sales: Some tattoo artists may offer limited-time sales or discounts on certain designs or services. These sales may be advertised on social media or through email newsletters.
- Referral discounts: Many tattoo artists rely on word-of-mouth marketing to grow their business. As a result, some artists may offer discounts or other incentives for clients who refer new business to them.
- Package deals: If you’re interested in getting multiple tattoos or having multiple sessions with the same artist, they may offer a package deal that discounts the overall cost.
- Special events or promotions: Some tattoo shops may hold special events or promotions throughout the year that offer discounted rates for certain designs or services.
It’s worth noting that not all artists offer discounts, and some may be less willing to budge on pricing than others. However, by familiarizing yourself with the different types of discounts that may be available, you may be able to find a way to save money on your tattoo without compromising on quality.
The Difference Between Asking for A Discount and Haggling
While it’s possible to ask your tattoo artist for a discount, it’s important to understand the difference between asking for a discount and haggling. Haggling is a type of negotiation where two parties go back and forth over a price until they reach a mutually agreed-upon cost. While this may work in some situations, it’s generally not recommended when it comes to tattoos.
Haggling can be perceived as disrespectful or insulting to tattoo artists, who put a lot of time and effort into their work. Additionally, haggling can create an uncomfortable and adversarial dynamic between the client and artist, which can negatively impact the tattoo process as a whole.
Rather than haggling over price, it’s recommended to approach the situation with transparency, honesty, and respect. Be upfront about your budget and what you can afford, and express your appreciation for the artist’s work. By establishing a positive relationship with your artist and being willing to compromise, you may be able to work out a price that works for both of you without resorting to haggling.
Conclusion
It is certanly possible to ask your tattoo artist for a discount, but it’s important to approach the situation with respect and tact. Understanding the factors that affect tattoo pricing and establishing a good rapport with your artist can increase your chances of success.
Remember that tattoo artists are skilled professionals who deserve to be compensated for their time and talent. If you approach the situation with mutual respect, you may be able to work out a price that works for both you and your artist.