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Ink-spensive or worth It: How much do tattoos cost in Wellington?

So, you’ve found the perfect design, chosen your tattoo studio in Wellington, and are ready to make your mark on the world (literally). But wait! Before you commit to a lifetime of ink, let’s talk about the less permanent part – the price. 

How much do tattoos really cost in Wellington? While prices can vary, you can expect to pay around $150 for a small tattoo (that fits on a wrist), $300 for a medium-sized tattoo (that fits on a forearm or shoulder), and $500 and above for large tattoos (that fits on a back or chest). 

But your final cost can change. There are so many factors to consider before getting a tattoo like the artist’s experience, the complexity of the design, and more. Don’t worry, though. We’re here to break it all down for you. No surprises, just the facts. 

Size

large-back-tattoo

Size matters when it comes to tattoos. A larger tattoo demands more time and resources from the artist, translating to a higher price tag.

Think of it like this: a small wrist tattoo might be a charming haiku, while a full-back piece is an epic novel. Both have their appeal, but the novel requires considerably more time, effort, and expertise to create. 

Larger tattoos often require multiple sessions, allowing the skin to heal between appointments. This, too, adds to the overall cost. 

Comparison table:

SERVICEAVERAGE COST
Small tattoo example:

Media credit to small_wrist_tattoo

Large tattoo example:

Media credit to uno_own

Price: $150+Price: $500+
Feature: Small design on the wristFeature: Large design on the back

Complexity & detail

highly-detailed-tattoo

Intricate tattoos aren’t for the faint of heart – or the light of the wallet. Think of them as the haute couture of body art: time-consuming, eye-wateringly expensive, and guaranteed to turn heads. 

Whether it’s a full sleeve of black and grey masterpieces or an explosion of neo-Japanese ink, these intricate designs demand the artistic finesse of a Michelangelo and the patience of a saint. So, if you’re thinking of getting one, prepare to invest some serious time and cash. 

Comparison table:

SERVICEAVERAGE COST
Simple tattoo example:

Media credit to small_wrist_tattoo

Complex tattoo example:

Media credit to complex_tattoo

Price: $150+ Price: $500+
Feature: Basic line work tattoo Feature: Detailed and shaded tattoo

Body placement

hands-and-feet-tattoos

Inking your skin is an art, but some canvases are trickier than others. Bony areas like ribs and intricate spots like hands and feet are the tattoo artist’s Everest. They demand more skill, precision, and inevitably, a higher price tag. 

Sensitive spots might have you tapping out for more breaks, turning your tattoo session into a marathon (and a pricier one at that). Plus, tattoos in high-traffic areas exposed to the elements are like delicate flowers – they need extra care and frequent touch-ups to stay vibrant.

Comparison table:

SERVICEAVERAGE COST
Easy placement example:

Media credit to architex_tatto

Difficult placement example:

Media credit to mags_ink

Price: $200+ Price: $400+
Feature: Forearm tattoo Feature: Rib tattoo

Artist experience

seasoned-tattoo-artist

Experienced tattoo artists possess a high level of skill, refined through years of dedication to their craft. Their expertise translates to precise lines, smooth shading, and designs that integrate seamlessly with the body’s contours. 

This level of craftsmanship, however, is reflected in their pricing.

You wouldn’t expect to pay the same price for a bespoke suit from a master tailor as you would for an off-the-rack garment, right? Similarly, a tattoo from a seasoned artist is an investment in quality, a piece of art that will only be appreciated with time.

SERVICEAVERAGE COST
Novice artist example:

Media credit to baronsamdi_tatts

Experience artist example:

Media credit to drmorsetatt

Price: $150+ Price: $500+
Feature: Basic tattoo, can be done by even newer artists Feature: Sophisticated tattoo, requires more years of experience