Ink Itch? How to Get the Best Tattoo Deal

Got ink itch? Are you a little low on cash? Sometimes you can get a great deal on new ink if you time it right. With any body modification, make sure you spend some time thinking about what you want as well as the placement. After you have made your decision, now it's time to find out how to get the best price. Price range varies greatly shop to shop based on artists available, reputation etc... You never know if you can get a discount unless you ask.

Make sure you look at the artists portfolio to see what his/her work looks like on the flesh. When pricing your new tatt ask if volunteering to have your skin art in their portfolio will get you a discount. Please note some portfolios are online as well, so before you ask you may want to think about it. Some shops will give you a small discount if you put their bumper sticker on your car. Also if you refer your friends and bring in more business you can usually get a cheaper rate.

The best time of year to get new ink is NOT SUMMER. Here are some reasons not to get it in the summer: Everyone does it in the summer so prices are higher, & lines are longer. You also can't go swimming, you have to be incredibly careful about sunburn and it just seems to itch more. You also can't shave - ladies you know what I mean. I got a dragon on my leg one summer; unfortunately it was my "bearded dragon" for a few weeks while it heals. Woolly mammoth legs are not sexy, especially just a patchy woolly mammoth leg. I have found that typically winter & fall are the best times of year to get new ink. There are usually no lines, and since it is slower they are more apt to work with you on the pricing. And as a bonus, no one needs to see your furry monster legs.

Always tip your tattoo artist! I can't stress that enough. Think about it, they have the power to write whatever they want on your body, and it's permanent. They also can dig the needle into you or be a little gentler with it. If you get multiple pieces from the same artist believe me, they remember who tips them well. If they do good work, give them a decent tip, it may get you a discount on your next piece.

Pieces done by apprentices are usually cheaper. Everyone has to learn on someone, but try to see a sample of their work if possible to make sure their level of artistry matches what you had in mind. A friend of mine became an apprentice a few years back and is a full blown tattoo artist now. Even as a beginner Erin's work was astounding, just because they are new does not mean you will end up with stick figures on your back. But you could. She just happens to be an amazing artist no matter what medium she is working with. You can get a deal on your new tattoo, but please use a reputable shop. You get what you pay for, but you shouldn't have to break the bank either.