How do tattoo deposits work?

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Deposits (typically $50-200) reserve your appointment slot and cover design time. They're usually non-refundable but apply toward your final cost. Deposits protect artists from no-shows and compensate for custom design work done before your appointment. Tattoo deposits serve two purposes: securing your appointment and compensating the artist for pre-session work. When you book, you'll typically pay $50-200 depending on the project size and shop policy. This amount is deducted from your final bill—it's not an extra charge. Before your appointment, your artist spends hours on your project: reviewing references, sketching concepts, refining the design, and preparing stencils. The deposit ensures they're compensated for this work even if you cancel. Most deposits are non-refundable with short notice (48-72 hours or less). This protects artists from losing income when clients no-show or cancel last minute—they could have booked someone else for that slot. If you need to reschedule with adequate notice (usually 48-72+ hours), most shops will transfer your deposit to a new date. Read the shop's deposit policy before booking. Legitimate shops are transparent about terms. If something feels unclear, ask before paying.