Ever looked at a tattoo quote and thought, “Wait, how much?” You’re not alone.
Tattoo pricing can feel a bit like black magic if you’re not familiar with how it works. There’s no barcode, no fixed menu. One shop quotes $150 for a design, another throws $400 at you for the same thing. You’re left wondering — are you paying for the art, the name, the chair… or just getting played?
At Ink By Finch, we’ve heard these concerns more than once. Pricing confusion is common, especially if it’s your first time or you’re getting something custom. So let’s break it down.
This guide will help you figure out what’s normal, what’s not, and how to avoid walking out with both a tattoo and a wallet full of regret.
Prices Vary. That’s Not Always a Bad Thing.
Tattooing isn’t like getting a haircut or buying a pair of shoes. There’s no one-size-fits-all. It depends on the artist, the studio, the design, and honestly, sometimes even the day.
Some artists charge hourly. Others work per piece. Some factor in their experience. Others look at complexity or style. That tiny linework butterfly on your wrist? Might cost $120 in one studio and $220 in another. Same design. Same size. Totally different rates.
So, no — there’s no “standard” price list. But that doesn’t mean there are no rules at all. There are ranges. Ballparks. And things you should expect to pay for.
What Does a Fair Tattoo Price Look Like?
Let’s talk actual numbers. These are rough estimates based on Singapore studios:
- Palm-sized black ink design: SGD $150 – $300
- Detailed forearm piece: SGD $400 – $800
- Full sleeve: SGD $1,200 – $3,000+
- Minimalist script or symbol: SGD $80 – $200
If someone quotes way outside those ranges with no explanation, pause. Ask why.
Also, don’t just look at the price. Look at what you’re getting. Clean needles, sterile workspaces, an artist who listens, custom design time, proper wrapping, and clear aftercare instructions. That’s part of what you’re paying for. It’s not just the ink — it’s the whole experience.
Red Flags You’re Being Overcharged
While there’s no perfect formula, some things should make you raise an eyebrow:
1. You’re quoted a price before showing your design
If the studio gives you a flat quote the moment you walk in — before even seeing what you want — that’s suspicious. Good artists base pricing on time, detail, size, and placement. Blanket quotes often mean they don’t care about the specifics.
2. They can’t explain the quote
If you ask, “Why is this $500?” and the answer is “Because that’s our rate”, walk away. A reputable artist will explain what you’re paying for — design time, detail, shading, number of hours, etc.
3. Hidden costs
Some places tack on extra fees for stencil redraws, basic touch-ups, or aftercare packs. These should be discussed upfront. Transparency is part of being fair.
4. They won’t give you a receipt or documentation
No quote in writing? No sketch before the session? That’s a red flag. Always get things confirmed before you sit in the chair.
Why Cheap Isn’t Always Better
Let’s say Studio A quotes $120. Studio B quotes $250. You go with A. It looks fine — at first. But within a week, the lines blur. The ink fades. There’s patchiness.
Now you’re paying $300 to get it fixed. And the cover-up limits your future design options.
That $120 just cost you $420 and a lot of frustration.
On the flip side, some artists charge premium rates simply because they can. And that’s not always fair either. You want balance — someone who charges fairly for quality work, not someone riding a name or location.
Ask Questions. Good Artists Don’t Mind.
Worried about sounding rude when asking about money? Don’t be.
Try these:
- “Can you explain how your pricing works?”
- “Is this hourly or flat rate?”
- “What would you estimate for this design on my upper arm?”
- “Does that include touch-ups?”
A professional won’t be offended. In fact, they’ll appreciate that you care. It shows you’re serious about the work.
And if they do get defensive? That tells you all you need to know.
Do Some Homework First
Before you even step into a studio, spend a bit of time browsing portfolios. Compare work, read reviews, and look at healed tattoos — not just fresh ones.
Instagram makes everything look good. But what does the linework look like after three months?
Also, check if the artist’s style matches what you want. A great realism artist may not do clean geometric lines. Price means nothing if the style doesn’t match.
Get a few quotes. Don’t just pick the lowest or the most famous. Aim for the one that makes sense — and feels right.
Know Your Budget, Then Work Backwards
Instead of asking, “How much for this tattoo?” try, “I’ve got a $500 budget — what can we do with that?”
It sets expectations. It also helps the artist suggest designs that fit both your idea and your wallet.
If your dream design is out of budget, that’s okay. Save up. It’s your body. It’s permanent. You wouldn’t buy a $10 parachute — you’d wait for the good one.
Same goes for ink.
One Last Thing: Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, don’t sit in that chair. If you feel rushed, pressured, or like you’re being sold to — it’s not worth it.
Getting tattooed should be exciting, not stressful. You should walk out with a design you love and a price you feel good about. Not one you have to defend to your friends or regret in the mirror.
Fair pricing is honest, clear, and based on value, not vibes.
Conclusion
There’s no magic calculator for tattoo pricing. But there are signs that help you know whether you’re getting a fair deal or being taken for a ride.
Think about the full picture. Look beyond the price tag. Consider the artist’s skill, the studio’s professionalism, and the overall experience.
At Ink By Finch, we’re all about keeping things honest. We believe tattoos should feel good — from the moment you walk in to the years you wear them. If you’re unsure what your design might cost, come in for a consult. No pressure. Just clear answers, skilled hands, and a quote you can trust.
Reach us here.