If you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo or adding one to your collection you may be thinking about your budget. Tattoo pricing can vary widely depending on various parameters.
Size and complexity of your design
The bigger and more detailed the tattoo, the longer it takes. Time being one of the main factors in pricing, the larger and complex your design, the higher the cost will be.
- Small tattoos (like initials, tiny symbols, or simple linework) that usually take under an hour, are typically priced at a studio’s minimum rate.
- Medium tattoos (like forearm pieces, small portraits, or detailed flowers) may take 2–4 hours.
- Large tattoos (like back pieces, sleeves, or custom designs) can require multiple sessions, often spread over weeks or months.
That said, everyone’s definition of a medium size tattoo varies as some would say.
Style of your tattoo
Different tattoo styles require different skills and time investments:
- Fine line tattoos require precision.
- Black & grey realism takes longer for shading and detail.
- Colour tattoos involve layering and can cost more due to the extra time.
- Cover-up tattoos usually require more planning and detail, which can raise the price.
Artist Experience
Like any craft, you pay for expertise. A highly experienced tattoo artist with years of practice may charge more per hour than someone newer to the industry. The benefit? You’re paying for skill, safety, and quality and get a tattoo you will be proud of. Beware artists with cheap prices, you may end up paying more in the long run for cover ups, touch-ups and more. Trust our experience, we have had so many new clients desperately in need of tattoo corrections. If you don’t know where to start, we have created a guide on how to recognise a good tattoo artist from a bad tattoo artist.
Placement on the Body
Some areas are easier to tattoo than others. Flat surfaces like arms and thighs are simpler, while ribs, necks, and hands may take longer due to contours and sensitivity, slightly increasing the price.
So what is the price for a tattoo in Birmingham?
Book a consultation with us: it is free, it is quick, and we will be able to tell you what your tattoo vision will require in terms of budget. Speak soon
