Cheap tattoo: how to get a beautiful tattoo without spending a lot of money

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Leestijd: 5 minuten Laatste update: 29 december 2025

Getting a tattoo can be quite costly. Prices range from a few tens to hundreds or even thousands of euros, depending on the size, complexity, and experience of the tattoo artist. But what if you want a tattoo but your budget is tight? Fortunately, there are several ways to get a beautiful tattoo without spending a fortune. In this article, we share practical tips and a smart solution to test first before you invest.

Why are tattoos actually so expensive?

Before we look at cheaper options, it’s good to understand why professional tattoos are often expensive. A tattoo artist charges not only for the time it takes to apply the tattoo but also for:

  • Years of experience and artistic skills
  • Professional, sterile equipment and high-quality ink
  • Time for designing custom designs
  • Studio rent and other business expenses
  • Aftercare and possible touch-ups

A good tattoo is an investment in quality and safety. However, this does not always mean you have to spend a lot.

Tips for an affordable tattoo from a professional

If you eventually decide to get a permanent tattoo, there are ways to save costs without compromising on quality:

Choose a smaller design

The larger and more detailed the tattoo, the higher the price. A small, minimalist tattoo can start from 50 to 80 euros. Think of simple symbols, words, or line drawings that are perfect for beginners.

Go for black and white instead of color

Color tattoos require more time and materials, making them more expensive. A stylish black-and-white design can be just as impressive and often saves a lot on costs.

Watch out for promotions and discounts

Many tattoo studios offer special promotions, such as Friday the 13th deals or flash sales where you can choose from pre-designed designs at a reduced rate.

Choose a beginner tattoo artist

Tattoo artists who are just starting their careers often charge lower prices to gain experience and build a portfolio. Important: always check their work and make sure they work under supervision in a reputable studio.

The smartest cheap option: try first with a temporary tattoo

Did you know many people regret their tattoo? Research shows that about 20 to 30 percent of people with a tattoo wish they had made a different choice. Maybe the design is disappointing, the tattoo is in the wrong place, or it just doesn't suit you.

That's why it's wise to experiment first with a temporary tattoo. At tatt4aweek.nl you can try various designs for a fraction of the price of a permanent tattoo. Our stick-on tattoos are:

  • Super cheap compared to permanent tattoos
  • Water-resistant and lasts up to 2 weeks
  • Dermatologically tested and safe for every skin type
  • Easy to apply yourself without pain
  • Made from natural ingredients

This way, you can test different designs and body placements before taking the permanent step. This not only saves you money in the short term but also prevents costly corrections or laser treatments afterward.

Advantages of trying a fake tattoo first

A temporary tattoo offers more than just a cheap alternative. It gives you the chance to:

To discover what suits you

Maybe you think a large back piece is perfect, but with a temporary version, you discover you'd prefer something more subtle. Or you're curious how a certain symbol looks on your wrist before making the final decision.

To experiment without regret

Tattoos are permanent, but your taste can change. With a temporary tattoo, you can experiment worry-free with different styles, from minimalist line drawings to extravagant designs.

To test how others react

Are you curious how family, friends, or your employer react to your tattoo? A temporary version gives you the chance to gauge this without being immediately tied to a permanent choice.

To save money

Instead of spending hundreds of euros on a tattoo you might regret, you only invest a few euros in a temporary version. This way you are sure you make the right choice before going to a tattoo studio.

Popular cheap tattoo designs to start with

If you are looking for affordable tattoo inspiration, these designs are perfect to start with:

  • Small symbols: hearts, stars, anchors, or arrows
  • Short texts: a single word or short quote
  • Minimalist line drawings: simple animals, flowers, or geometric shapes
  • Date or initials: personal and timeless
  • Simple mandalas: spiritual and stylish

You can try all these designs first with a temporary tattoo from our semi-permanent tattoo collection. This way you see exactly how it looks and whether you are ready for it.

What to look for in a cheap permanent tattoo?

Note: cheap should never come at the expense of safety and quality. Avoid:

  • Home tattoo artists without a license or experience
  • Studios that do not use sterile materials
  • Deals that are too good to be true
  • Artists who cannot show a portfolio

A tattoo is for life. Better save on size or complexity than on hygiene and craftsmanship.

Start with a temporary tattoo and save money and regret

Want to try a tattoo cheaply without risk? Then a temporary tattoo is the perfect solution. At tatt4aweek.nl you will find hundreds of designs in various styles, from minimalist to extravagant, from tough to subtle. Our stick-on tattoos are not only cheap but also high quality and dermatologically tested.

First test which design and placement suit you best, without regrets and without exceeding your budget. Browse our full collection and discover your perfect tattoo at tatt4aweek.nl. Tattoo without regrets!