A tattoo in Tampa costs different amounts depending on size, placement, detail, style and the artist. Every shop has a minimum, and at Tuff Tattoos our shop minimum is $100. Beyond that, pricing varies by artist, size and placement, and the fastest way to get a real number is to send a request: we match you with an artist and talk through pricing at your consultation.
The short version
- Shop minimum: $100 at Tuff Tattoos. The minimum covers the setup for even the smallest piece.
- Beyond the minimum: price depends on the artist, the size of the piece and where it goes on the body.
- Large pieces: sleeves and back pieces are planned session by session, so the total depends on the design and how many sessions it takes.
- The only real quote is one from the artist who will do your tattoo, after they see your idea and reference photo.
What actually moves the price
Size and detail. More area and more detail take more time. A realism piece or micro-realism design takes longer than simple linework, even when the finished tattoo is small.
Style and color. Color work can take more time than black and grey, depending on the design. If you want color, our color tattoo page lists the artists who work in color.
Placement. Ribs, hands, necks and other tricky spots can take longer to work cleanly. See our pain chart by body spot.
Custom design. At Tuff Tattoos every piece is designed from scratch. You are paying for original art made for your idea and your body, not a flash sheet someone else already wears.
The artist. Pricing varies by artist. Browse our artists and their portfolios to see who fits your idea.
Cover-ups and reworks. Covering an old tattoo usually needs more design work than a fresh piece. Read Cover-Up Tattoos 101 or see our cover-up page.
Why a "cheap" tattoo can cost more in the end
A bargain tattoo that heals patchy or simply looks wrong can turn into a cover-up project. Budget for the tattoo you want, not the cheapest version of it.
How pricing works at Tuff Tattoos
- Send a request. Use the request form with your idea, placement, size and a reference photo (the photo is required). We reply within 24 hours.
- We match you with an artist. The artist whose work fits your idea talks through pricing at your consultation. A consultation is a free conversation: you review references, refine the design and plan placement and size.
- Deposit. Deposits vary by booking type, and our front desk texts you the deposit link. Deposits are non-refundable but may be transferable depending on the artist, and we require at least 48 hours' notice for cancellations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum price for a tattoo at Tuff Tattoos?
Our shop minimum is $100. Pricing beyond that varies by artist, size and placement.
Do you charge by the hour or by the piece?
Pricing varies by artist, size and placement. The artist gives you a real number at your consultation after seeing your idea.
How much deposit do I need?
It depends on what you are booking. Our front desk texts you the deposit link.
Should I tip my tattoo artist?
Tipping is customary in the U.S. See our tattoo tipping guide.
Do you take walk-ins?
Walk-ins are welcome when an artist is available, but same-day space is never guaranteed. Call (813) 853-2489 first, or send a request and we will set you up properly.
Ready for a real number? Request your tattoo. Tuff Tattoos, 101 N 12th St, Suite 104, Tampa, FL 33602. Open Monday to Saturday, 11am to 6pm.