Because it’s a secret code. Every artist has a different system. Some charge by the piece. Some by the hour. Some by the vibe of the client.
I once heard an artist say, “If you smell like cigarettes and argue, I add $50.” That’s real. Attitude is currency.
The best part? You can always ask for a quote. Send a photo. Describe the size. Be honest. Good artists respect respectful questions. They don’t bite. Well, they might bite with a needle. But not in a mean way.
Final Punchy Truths
Don’t bargain hunt for tattoos. Cheap ink looks cheap. Expensive ink looks like art. You pay for the skill, not the paint.
Save up. Wait. Do it right. A tattoo is the only outfit you can’t take off. And if you get a good one, you’ll wear it proud.
So next time you ask, “How much does it cost?” remember: it’s a conversation, not a catalog. Talk to the artist. Laugh a little. Then hand over your credit card with a smile.
Your skin is your story. Make it a good one. And maybe skip the dollar menu tattoo.
