Creative Invoice Template

Free Tattoo Artist Invoice Template

Invoice clients for tattoo sessions, custom artwork, and studio chair fees. Get paid on time with Tidybill.

Create Free Invoice View Pricing

What is a Tattoo Artist invoice?

A tattoo artist invoice documents the fees for applying permanent body art, creating custom tattoo designs, and any associated services such as consultations, touch-up appointments, and aftercare products. Tattoo artists typically charge by the hour for large pieces, by a flat session rate for smaller work, or by the piece for standard designs. Many studios require a non-refundable booking deposit to secure appointment slots. An invoice provides a professional record of the service provided, the design specifications, and the amount charged. This is particularly useful for high-value custom work that involves multiple sittings. Invoicing also helps tattoo artists track their income accurately for tax purposes, as many operate as self-employed sole traders or rent a chair in a studio.

What to include on a Tattoo Artist invoice

Common tattoo artist invoice line items

Service Typical Rate Unit
Tattoo Session (hourly) £80 - £200 per hour
Small Tattoo (flat rate) £80 - £200 per piece
Custom Design Fee £50 - £200 per design
Touch-Up Session £0 - £80 per session
Studio Minimum £80 - £120 minimum charge
Aftercare Products £5 - £20 per product

How to invoice as a tattoo artist

Issue a receipt or invoice at the time of the session, showing the session fee, any deposit previously paid, and the balance collected. For multi-sitting pieces, issue an invoice after each session. Custom design fees can be charged separately from the sitting fee and collected at the design consultation stage. Most tattoo studios collect payment on the day; invoicing is useful for keeping accurate income records and for clients who request a receipt for insurance or tax purposes.

Create your tattoo artist invoice in minutes

Start free. No credit card required.

Get started free

Frequently asked questions

Should tattoo artists issue invoices?
Yes, even if you collect payment on the day. An invoice or receipt provides a professional record for both you and the client. It is also useful for tracking your income accurately for self-assessment tax returns. Tidybill allows you to create and send a professional invoice or receipt in minutes.
How do I handle deposits in my invoicing?
Record the deposit amount on the final invoice and show the balance paid on the day. For example: 'Session fee £250, less deposit received £50, balance due £200.' This keeps your records clean and provides the client with a clear payment breakdown.
Do I need to register as self-employed as a tattoo artist?
Yes, if you are working as a self-employed chair renter or running your own studio. In the UK, register with HMRC as self-employed when your income exceeds £1,000 per tax year. Keep records of all invoices and receipts for your annual self-assessment. VAT registration applies if turnover exceeds £90,000.
Can I charge for a custom design separately from the tattoo session?
Yes, and many established artists do. Custom design is creative work that takes time independent of the actual tattooing. Charging a separate design fee (often credited towards the tattoo session) acknowledges this and deters clients who request custom designs but do not book the appointment.
What if a client cancels their appointment?
A non-refundable deposit is standard practice to compensate for lost appointment slots. State your cancellation policy at booking. For short-notice cancellations (less than 48 hours), retaining the full deposit is reasonable. For very late cancellations, some artists charge an additional rebooking fee.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Tidybill's free plan lets you create up to 5 invoices per month at no cost, with no credit card required. You can use the Tattoo Artist invoice template straight away after signing up.