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Our inkonomics: How much do tattoos cost in London?

A friend once said to me that since a picture is worth a thousand words, that meant a tattoo might be worth a thousand pounds. Though he was joking, he wasn’t wrong: some tattoos can actually get up to that figure. 

So, how much do tattoos really cost in London? Expect to pay an average of £125 for a medium-sized tattoo, £250 for something larger, and around £750 for a half-sleeve.  

But that’s just the start – factors like the artist’s experience, the tattoo shop’s rate, design complexity, and more can all bump up the price. We’ll break it all down, so you can prepare for that ink investment.

Artist experience and popularity

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Much like any craft, tattooing is a skill honed over the years. Experienced artists aren’t just slinging ink, they’re bringing a higher level of technical precision and artistic vision to their work. 

They understand how to execute complex designs, how colours will blend and age on the skin (no fading regrets here!), and how to tailor a tattoo perfectly to an individual’s body. 

Remember, selecting the right artist is crucial, especially since you’ll be making this decision as an adult – at least 18, as per London’s legal age for tattoos. For more on what makes an artist stand out and the legalities involved, check out our article here.

Tattoo size and complexity

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Bigger tattoos mean a bigger canvas, and that translates to more time under the needle. Since most tattoo artists charge by the hour, that extra real estate can mean longer sessions or even multiple sittings – and your wallet will definitely notice.

But it’s not just about the time it takes. Complex designs are where tattoo artists flex their artistic muscles. Intricate portraits, swirling patterns, or mind-bending optical illusions require careful planning, a steady hand, and a whole lot of skill.

And hey, let’s not forget the supplies! Larger and more detailed tattoos gobble up more ink, needles, and various other bits and bobs. 

Location of the tattoo studio

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Let’s talk about rent. Think of it like your apartment –  a sweet spot in the city is gonna cost more than a place out in the quieter zones. Tattoo shops in London face the same deal. Those high rents and overall operating costs in busy areas have to be factored into the price of your ink.

Now, think about visibility. Studios in areas with lots of foot traffic or a reputation for being hip naturally attract more attention. That boosted reputation and potential for walk-in clients allowing them to charge a little extra.

Of course, some studios also aim to go above and beyond with luxurious vibes and extra amenities. You might get fancy coffee or a super unique experience, and you bet that’ll be reflected in the price. 

Colour vs. black and grey

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Colour tattoos often come with a bit of a premium in London. You can think of the inks as your artist’s palette – they need more colours (which cost more) to create your design. 

Plus, the process of applying colour is meticulous. Artists need to switch between colours, blend shades, and ensure the overall effect is smooth. This takes extra time, skill, and resources, all adding to the cost.  

Additionally, coloured tattoos, especially those with lighter hues, might need more frequent touch-ups over the years, factoring into the long-term cost. 

Aftercare products

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A fresh tattoo needs the right care to look its best, and those aftercare products can add to the price of your London ink if you count up the total cost. Tattoo artists often recommend unscented soaps, specialised healing ointments, and gentle moisturisers. 

These are specifically designed to cleanse, protect, and speed up healing, preventing infections and ensuring your tattoo stays vibrant over time. It’s a small investment upfront to avoid fading or potential medical bills, a smart way to protect your body art. 

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