It's the first question almost everyone asks — and the honest answer is: it depends. There's no fixed menu for a good tattoo. Price is built around your specific piece, not a sticker on the wall. Here's what actually drives the cost in Bali, and how to think about it.
What affects the price
- Size — bigger pieces take more ink and more time.
- Placement — awkward, curved or tender areas are slower to tattoo.
- Detail — fine linework, dense shading or realism take far longer than bold, simple blackwork.
- Time — ultimately you're paying for the hours and skill the piece demands.
- The artist — experience and a strong, specialised portfolio command more.
How studios quote
Most quote either by the piece (a flat price once they've seen your design) or by the hour/day for larger work. Either way, the only way to get a real number is to send your idea, size and placement to the studio for a quote. Vague "how much for a small tattoo?" questions get vague answers.
Why the cheapest option is rarely the right one
Bali has everything from world-class studios to street stalls offering bargain ink. For something permanent, hygiene and skill matter far more than saving a little. A cheap tattoo that's badly done, fades fast or — worse — causes an infection costs far more to fix than doing it right the first time. Read our guide to getting a tattoo in Bali for how to vet a studio.
Deposits & payment
For custom or larger work, expect to leave a deposit to lock your date and cover design time — it usually comes off the final price. Confirm what payment methods a studio accepts before you arrive.
Our pricing
At Blacklow, every piece is quoted on its size, placement and detail — message us your idea for a price. We also run an online booking promo: three small tattoos for $100. See our work and FAQ for more.
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