You’ve finally decided: you’re going to get a tattoo! But before you walk into a tattoo shop, you naturally want to know what you’re getting into. How much does a tattoo actually cost? The answer isn’t as simple as you might hope, because the price of a tattoo depends on several factors. In this article, we explain what determines the cost and why it’s smart to first try out a temporary tattoo.
What determines the price of a tattoo?
The cost of a permanent tattoo varies greatly, from a few dozen to thousands of euros. This depends on several aspects:
- Size: A small tattoo of a few centimeters is logically cheaper than a large back piece or sleeve
- Complexity: Simple line drawings are done faster than detailed realistic portraits or colorful designs
- Location on your body: Some spots are technically more challenging and require more time
- Experience of the tattoo artist: Well-known artists often charge higher hourly rates
- Duration of the session: Many tattoo shops work with an hourly rate, ranging from €80 to €200 per hour
- Color or black and white: Color work usually takes more time and materials
Average prices for different tattoos
To give you an idea of what you might expect to pay, here are some guideline prices for permanent tattoos in the Netherlands:
Small tattoos
For a small tattoo like a heart, star, or short word on your wrist, ankle, or behind your ear, you can expect to pay €50 to €150. These usually take no longer than an hour.
Medium-sized tattoos
A tattoo about the size of a forearm or thigh typically costs between €150 and €400. Think of a flower branch, mandala, or animal. The session usually lasts 2 to 4 hours.
Large tattoos
For large tattoos like a full back, chest, or sleeve, you’ll need multiple sessions. The total cost can range from €1000 to €5000 or even more, depending on the design and required time.
Additional costs to consider
Besides the tattoo itself, there are some extra costs:
- Design: Some tattoo artists charge separately for creating a custom design
- Touch-ups: After healing, you may need a touch-up session to refresh colors or lines
- Care products: Special ointments and creams for aftercare
- Tip: In the Netherlands this is not mandatory, but a nice gesture (usually 10-15%)
Why try a temporary tattoo first?
A permanent tattoo is not only a significant financial investment but above all a lifelong decision. And let’s be honest: many people have doubts. Will that tattoo suit me? Do I really want it in that spot? Does the design fit my style?
That’s why it’s wise to first experiment with a temporary tattoo. At tatt4aweek.nl you can choose from hundreds of designs and try out how a tattoo looks on you without any regrets afterward. Our temporary tattoos are dermatologically tested, made from natural ingredients, and last up to 2 weeks. Perfect for testing!
Benefits of temporary tattoos
With a temporary tattoo, you not only save hundreds of euros but also avoid possible disappointment:
- No permanent consequences: Don’t like it? The tattoo will fade away on its own
- Try different designs: Experiment with styles, motifs, and placements
- Test the location: Find out if your wrist, forearm, or ankle is really the right spot
- Work situations: Ideal if you’re still unsure because of your job or studies
- Immediate result: Applied within minutes and instantly visible
For example, if you’re unsure about a tattoo on your forearm, wrist, or ankle, try it out first with a fake tattoo before taking the permanent step.
From temporary to permanent: the smart approach
More and more people consciously choose to try out their tattoo idea first with a temporary version. This gives you time to:
- Get feedback from friends and family
- Get used to the idea of a tattoo on your body
- Perfect the size and placement
- Be sure you won’t regret it
This way, you make a well-considered decision and know exactly what you want when you finally go to a tattoo shop. That saves not only money but especially regret afterward.
Choose certainty over doubt
A permanent tattoo can be a beautiful expression of yourself, but only if you are 100% sure. With prices reaching hundreds or even thousands of euros, it’s not a decision to take lightly. Why take that risk when you can test first?
In our temporary tattoo collection, you’ll find designs in all styles: from minimalist line drawings to colorful flowers, from text tattoos to symbolic motifs. Waterproof, easy to apply, and lasting up to 2 weeks.
Discover which tattoo suits you without regrets afterward. Browse our full collection at tatt4aweek.nl and test your dream tattoo today!
