Are you planning to get a tattoo? Then the question 'how much does a tattoo cost' is probably one of your first concerns. And rightly so! Prices can vary greatly, from around €60 for a small simple design to more than €1000 for a large, detailed artwork. In this article, you will discover the average prices, the factors that determine the costs, and how you can smartly test beforehand if a tattoo really suits you.
What determines the price of a tattoo?
The cost of a tattoo is determined by various factors. It’s not just a matter of size – there’s more to it:
Size and complexity
The larger the tattoo, the more time it takes and thus the higher the cost. A small tattoo on your wrist can be done within an hour, while a full sleeve requires multiple sessions. Complexity also plays a big role: a simple heart costs less than a detailed portrait with realistic shading.
Location on your body
Some body parts are harder to tattoo than others. Areas with a lot of movement or sensitive zones require more precision and time from the tattoo artist. Think of neck tattoos, hand tattoos, or tattoos behind your ear – these can be slightly more expensive.
Experience of the tattoo artist
A renowned tattoo artist with years of experience often charges a higher hourly rate than someone just starting out. This doesn’t automatically mean that more expensive is always better, but you do pay for expertise.
Style and use of color
Black & grey tattoos are often cheaper than colorful designs. The style also matters: fine line tattoos, realistic portraits, or traditional Japanese tattoos each require their own expertise and time investment.
Average tattoo prices in the Netherlands
To give you a realistic picture, here is an overview of average prices:
- Small tattoo (2-5 cm): €60 to €150 – think of small tattoos like a heart, symbol, or word
- Medium tattoo (5-10 cm): €150 to €350 – for example a flower, butterfly, or meaningful symbol
- Large tattoo (10-20 cm): €350 to €700 – such as forearm tattoos or thigh tattoos
- Very large tattoo (sleeve, back, leg): €700 to €2000+ – often spread over multiple sessions
Note: most tattoo studios have a minimum fee between €60 and €80, even for the smallest designs. This covers preparation time, materials, and hygiene costs.
Additional costs to consider
Besides the tattoo itself, there are some other costs you can expect:
- Design time: some studios charge separately for creating a custom design
- Adjustments: changes to the design can take extra time
- Touch-ups: after a few weeks, a free or paid touch-up may be needed
- Care products: special cream and soap for aftercare
- Tip: it’s customary to give a 10-20% tip for a successful tattoo
Test first before you invest
A tattoo is quite an investment, both financially and for life. That’s why it’s smart to think carefully beforehand and especially: try it out! With a temporary tattoo, you can experiment worry-free without permanent consequences.
Still unsure about the size? Want to see how a design looks in a certain spot first? A fake tattoo gives you the perfect chance to test before you invest hundreds of euros. This way, you can find out if a wrist tattoo suits you better than an upper arm tattoo, or if a large design might be too eye-catching for your situation.
The benefits of trying first
Why try a temporary tattoo first? There are several reasons:
- No regrets: you’re sure you’re happy with your choice before going permanent
- Test location: some spots look different than you think – test first
- Gauge reactions: see how friends, family, or employer respond
- Save costs: avoid paying for a tattoo you later want removed (which is much more expensive!)
- Consider seasons: try your tattoo in different situations and clothing styles
At tatt4aweek.nl you’ll find an extensive collection of temporary tattoos that look realistic and last up to 2 weeks. They are dermatologically tested, water-resistant, and easy to apply. This way, you can try different designs and placements before taking the big step.
Save in the long run
Removing a permanent tattoo costs on average 3 to 10 times more than getting it done. The treatment is painful, takes a long time, and the result is not always perfect. By testing first with a sticker tattoo, you avoid this costly mistake. For just a few euros, you can experience for weeks how a tattoo looks on your body – a small investment compared to the price of permanent ink and possible removal.
Ready to experiment?
Now that you know how much a tattoo typically costs, you can make an informed decision. Take your time to research, compare prices, and don’t rush. And most importantly: test your tattoo idea first with a temporary version!
Check out our full collection of temporary tattoos and discover which design suits you perfectly. From minimalist symbols to large statement pieces – we have something for everyone. Tattoo without regrets: try it first before you decide!
