Last updated June 18, 2026
What is Sliding Scale?
Sliding scale is something I like to offer so the client can adjust their final price within the limits I set. I do this to make my tattoo work more accessible to people of different classes. I know my scales may still be hard to pay for, so I am open to work out payment plans for folks who are low income. However, I do ask that you respect my labor and craft and do not take advantage of this offering.
Example of Sliding Scale: I charge $200-250 for a piece, so you get to choose which number between $200-250 you can afford / are willing to pay, and that’s your final amount!
How did you get to your current rate?
I have been tattooing for about 3 years now as a resident artist and had a 2 year apprenticeship, I have been advised to charge my current rate for custom work based on my abilities. Especially since I do not charge a drafting fee and I pay rent at the studio I operate out of, there are many costs that go toward this practice that make this actually a decent rate in the current economic state we are in.
What can I expect with custom work?
For custom work, I will request some information in the initial confirmation email if I need it to start drafting your design. Then I will send you a sketch 2-5 days out (to the best of my ability - I juggle a lot of jobs and life responsibilities) from your appointment time. At that point you can send any edits you may have to help prepare the image more before your appointment. I will use these edits to create a more finalized image. During the session, we have time in the beginning to do more edits to make the design fit your body and placement. Then we will tattoo. If you desire having more time with the design, please consider a $100 drawing session.
Am I supposed to tip?
I am never going to force you or expect you to tip and it will not affect the work I do if I don’t get a tip. But it is greatly appreciated, and supports my work.
Other tips I love: Groceries (fresh vegetables, meat, fresh fruit, chips, etc), skincare, art materials (paintbrushes, pens, tattoo equipment)
Why do I have to pay a deposit / how does a deposit work?
A deposit is made so that I can ensure that you will show up to your appointment! This way people are less inclined to bail last minute on me, which can put me in a hard place financially. It’s also to show that you are committed to this time with me. Please refer to my Policies for information about cancellations /reschedules. Deposits are amounts that go toward your final payment. I currently take $75 deposits, so if your tattoo total ends up being $150, you would pay the remaining $75 (plus tip if you want) on the day of the tattoo.
Why do you ask for a second deposit after two reschedules?
I ask for a second deposit because after two reschedules, I have lost two opportunities to have booked other clients and meet my goal financially for the month. I often am very understanding about having to reschedule, but it does put me in a bind financially when I lose a slot. The first deposit then goes toward those two slots you missed, and the second deposit goes toward your final total.
Do you do trades?
I am open to trades! However, I may decline some offers if I’m uninterested or if it’s not something I need currently, especially if it doesn’t feel like a very fair trade. I am open to trades like: bodywork / acupuncture / cupping sessions, energywork sessions, tattoo trades, yoga classes, boxing classes, photography session, nail appointment, waxing service, hair coloring/cut, life coaching, financial literacy lessons, oil change / mechanic services. I like to trade in fields of service, since it feels similar to what I do.