“Can you give me a price?” is the most common first message tattoo artists receive. And honestly — not without information. A price quote without details is a guess. Here’s exactly what to provide when you reach out to a tattoo artist so you get a real, useful quote.
Why Vague Requests Get Vague Answers
When someone messages us with “how much for a small rose on my wrist?” — we can give a range ($150–$400), but that range is wide because a dozen factors shift the price. See our full Jacksonville pricing guide for the full breakdown.
To get a quote you can actually plan around, provide the details below.
What to Include in a Quote Request
1. The concept (in writing, specifically)
Not “something cool” or “a fish.” Describe it clearly: “A traditional-style Japanese koi swimming upstream with a small waterfall background, in color.” The more specific, the better.
2. Reference images
Include 3-5 reference images that capture the style, composition, and mood you’re after. Not a specific tattoo you want copied — references showing what elements you like and why.
3. Approximate size
Use a tape measure and tell us: “about 6 inches tall and 4 inches wide.” Or at minimum, compare it to something: “palm-size,” “forearm-covering,” “full calf.” Rough is fine; vague is not.
4. Placement on the body
Specific location — “inner forearm, left arm, from wrist to elbow crease.” If possible, include a photo of the area. A photo of the arm you want tattooed tells us more than words.
5. Color or black & grey
Makes a meaningful difference in both time and cost.
6. Your timeline
Are you hoping to get tattooed this month, this year, or whenever works? Good artists are often booked 2-8 weeks out.
What a Good Quote Looks Like
A useful quote from an experienced artist includes:
- An estimated hour range for the piece (“approximately 6–9 hours” vs “6 hours flat”)
- Whether it’s feasible as one session or needs multiple
- Hourly rate so you can calculate the range
- Any placement or design considerations that might affect scope
- What’s included (design work, consultation, touch-ups)
If you just get back “probably around $500” with no breakdown, that’s a red flag. Real quotes have structure.
Why Phone Quotes Are Tricky
Experienced artists rarely give firm prices on a phone call. Not because they’re hiding anything — because without seeing references, measuring, and discussing placement, they can’t be accurate. A good shop will ask you to email in details or come in for a free consultation.
The Deposit Question
Once a quote and appointment are agreed, most reputable shops take a deposit of $100–$200 to hold your slot. This isn’t extra — it comes off the final price on tattoo day. The deposit protects the artist from no-shows.
Requesting a Quote at Idle Hands
The fastest way to get a real quote at Idle Hands Tattoo Co.: email or message with the six details above, or call (904) 647-5183 to set up a free in-person consultation. Consultations take 20-45 minutes and you leave with a real plan and real numbers.
Have more questions on pricing first? Read our full Jacksonville tattoo pricing guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t artists give a tattoo quote without seeing the design?
Too many variables — size, detail, placement, color — affect the time in the chair, which drives price. Without those details, a quote is a guess.
How many reference images should I send for a tattoo quote?
3-5 references that show the style, composition, and mood you want. Not a single image to copy, but multiple examples that communicate your vision.
Do I have to pay for a tattoo consultation?
At most reputable Jacksonville shops, including Idle Hands, consultations are free.
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