Check prices in your local tattoo market. Use the average charge for a tattoo as the basis for your own rates.
Set your flat rate for a standard size tattoo. Most tattoo artists charge from $25 to $40 for a two-inch square tattoo.
Set your hourly rate. Most tattoo artists charge between $50 and $100 per hour. Charge an hourly rate for small, intricate designs that will take more time rather than charging by size.
Multiply your flat rate by the area of the tattoo to determine the cost. For example, if you charge $25 to $40 for a two-inch square design, a six-inch square design would cost between $75 and $120.
Consider the intricacy of smaller designs. Charge an hourly rate for small, intricate designs that will take more time rather than charging by size.
Charge the same flat rate for coloring in a tattoo as you did for the application of the design. Charge an hourly rate for a smaller tattoo that requires more intricate coloring and will take more time.
Charge a flat fee if a customer brings in a custom design. Tattoo artists traditionally charge an additional $25 for a custom design.
Charge more for a design in a difficult location such as a small, sensitive or hard-to-reach part of the customer's body. Tattoo artists will typically charge approximately $25 for the additional difficulty and time required in tattooing a difficult location.