HOW TO DETERMINE THE COST OF YOUR TATTOO

The cost of your tattoo is determined by various elements such as size, detail, color, placement and subject matter complexity. Estimates can only be provided once all details and reference photos (if applicable) have been submitted and reviewed.

Other factors that may influence the amount of time it takes to complete a piece include how well you are able to sit still or hold a position for if the desired area is is painful, difficult to stretch, reach or work with (e.g., scars, thin skin).

It is important to keep in mind that estimates are based on a foundational pricing model and the final cost of your tattoo may differ from the initial estimate ​as the specifics of your project evolve. 

Detail & Size Requirements

When selecting what elements to include in your tattoo, keep in mind that most of what Ruby does is very detailed and requires a decent amount of space to achieve that level of detail. Her tattoos look best with pieces that cover half limbs (e.g., full shin, full forearm, half sleeve) or full limbs & body parts (e.g., full leg sleeve, back piece). Although Ruby prefers larger pieces, she does take on smaller pieces on a case by case basis.
​
No matter the overall size of the piece you’re looking to get done, here are some size parameters to keep in mind:
BUGS
  • For full wingspan views of moths, butterflies, flying beetles, and similar bugs, the size should generally start at 3-4” but may vary depending upon the type of bug and their level of detail
  • Bumble bees look best at around 1½” or and ladybugs should be no smaller than ¾”
BOTANICALS
The following applies to a single, open view, flower head and does not include stems. Exceptions may be made for closed/half/side/partial views and are a great way to add one or two more flowers into a design:
  • Blossoms, buds or flowers that have minimal details (e.g., lily of the valley) should be at least 1-1½”
  • Small clustered flowers (e.g., lavender, lilac) can be made shorter or longer as well as be tucked behind other elements, but generally one individual open flower should be around ½-¾”
  • Small flowers with 5 or fewer petals such as violets, daffodils, etc. should be done no smaller than 2-3” (exceptions to this rule would be flowers such as daisies, as they can be portrayed with less petals at smaller sizes without compromising anything)
  • Fuller flowers such as peonies, anemones, etc. or clustered flowers such as hydrangea should be done no smaller than 3-5”
  • Larger flowers with lots of petals such as mums will likely need to be around 4-6”
LEAVES & FOLIAGE
​Fiddle heads (just the wrapped up part) are best to do at around 2”. Ferns and other foliage with a lot of lines and detail are very difficult to estimate as it is highly dependent on the variety and desired visibility, but generally it’s best to plan on it taking longer than you’d expect
ANIMALS & PEOPLE
  • ​Animals with long bodies/limbs or extra detail such as a heron should be done
  • Animal eyes that are small or have minimal detail (e.g., smaller birds, snakes) need to be at least ¼”
  • Human eyes need to be at least ½”, therefore expect faces to be around 3-4”. This applies to the head only and does not include medium/long hair, neck or body

​Estimates & PRICING MODELS

To provide an estimate, a comprehensive understanding of what you envision for your tattoo is required. This includes the design, placement, size, and other pertinent details which can be communicated through our appointment request form. Once we have a clear grasp of your vision and confirm that it aligns with Ruby's expertise, a detailed estimate and scheduling information will be provided.

DOTWORK
Estimates for black and grey dot work pieces are calculated as follows:
  1. ​Add the length and width together, then divide by two (the average)
  2. Multiply by $200 (hourly rate)
  3. Add 2 hours for wiggle room

Example: A piece that is 5x4 done in black and grey dotwork is estimated to take around 6½ hours (The average of 5 and 4 is 4½, plus 2 is 6½)

COLOR
Estimates for color pieces are calculated as follows:
  1. Add the length and width together
  2. Multiply by $200 (hourly rate)

​Example: A piece that is 5x4 done in color is estimated to take around 9 hours

​COST Calculation

Final cost is calculated by the amount of time spent tattooing each session multiplied by the current hourly rate ($200). Tattoo sessions typically last anywhere between 4 and 6 hours - however it is not mandatory to fill that many hours and we always want clients to feel comfortable communicating their boundaries, needs and comfort levels. 

​Pricing Options

Flexible pricing options to tailor your ideal design to fit your budget.

OPTION 1: PIECE BY PIECE
​Application: Map out the overall design, complete all outlines, shading and/or color of just a section of the overall piece in the first session, leaving room for addition at a later date.

Advantages: This is a great option for first timers, anyone nervous about pain tolerance, and those exploring the idea of their first visible piece. Adding to it bit by bit also allows you to have a "completed" look after each session.

OPTION 2: GRADUAL EVOLUTION
Application: Begin with a detailed outline and then gradually add shading, color and details in subsequent sessions.
​
Advantages: Allows you to spread the cost out over time and see your tattoo evolve.
​
OPTION 3: CROPPED RENDITION
Application: Distill the tattoo to its essence by creating a cropped view that focuses on the core elements that best convey the intended message, points of interest and aesthetic.

Advantages: This approach helps emphasize the most compelling aspects of the tattoo design and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal, resulting in a powerful representation of the concept. This is also a great option for fitting pieces to smaller areas of the body without losing the design's impact.

OPTION 4: PAYMENT PLANS
​​Coming Soon
Whew that was a lot, but you made it! Ready to take the next step in your tattoo journey? ​