Is it rude to not talk to your tattoo artist?

Getting a tattoo can be an intimidating experience, especially if it’s your first time. You’re putting your trust in someone to permanently mark your body. Because of this, many people feel unsure about the etiquette of conversation during a tattoo appointment.

So is it rude to not talk to your tattoo artist while they’re working on you? Here’s a look at both sides of the issue.

Why some say it’s rude to not talk

Those who believe you should chat with your artist point to a few key reasons:

  • It’s a social norm. Just like with a hair stylist, it’s generally expected that you’ll engage in light conversation during a tattoo appointment.
  • The artist may take your silence personally. They may wonder if you’re unhappy with their work or find them unlikable.
  • It builds rapport for the future. If you want to go back to the same artist, having a friendly relationship makes it more comfortable.
  • The artist is literally personalizing your body. It creates an awkward vibe if you don’t communicate at all.
  • Conversation helps you relax. Being completely silent can enhance anxiety for some.

Many tattoo artists say they don’t want to force small talk with clients who clearly don’t want to chat. However, they appreciate basic politeness and communication about the tattoo process.

Reasons it may be okay to not talk

On the other hand, here are some reasons why silence during a tattoo may not necessarily be rude:

  • You’re focused on staying still. Tattoos hurt, and some people concentrate on sitting very still in silence.
  • The artist is focused on their work. Chatting could break their concentration and affect the tattoo quality.
  • You don’t feel well. If you feel lightheaded or nauseous, making conversation may be difficult.
  • It’s your personal preference. You may just strongly dislike small talk with strangers.
  • Social anxiety. For some with social anxiety, forced conversation creates extreme discomfort.
  • You want to relax and zone out. Some people find the tattoo process almost meditative and don’t want distraction.

Many introverts argue that they shouldn’t have to chat with someone just to satisfy social niceties. If they politely greet the artist and communicate about the tattoo, staying silent shouldn’t be a big deal.

Tips if you don’t want to talk

If you know you don’t want to make continuous small talk during your tattoo for any reason, there are some tips to keep it from seeming rude:

  • Politely greet your artist and engage initially. Ask about their experience, discuss the tattoo, etc.
  • Explain that you don’t mean to be rude, but you prefer to just relax and focus silently during the process.
  • Occasionally give feedback on the tattoo and check in with the artist.
  • Bring headphones and ask if it’s alright to listen to music during the appointment.
  • Plan to go to an artist who makes you feel comfortable. Read reviews mentioning good communication or bedside manner.
  • If able, book the first or last appointment of the day when the shop is slower.
  • Mention ahead of time if you are introverted or have social anxiety so they understand.

As long as you’re polite about it, most tattoo artists will understand a preference to not talk much. The key is communicating the reason behind it.

Is it rude to not tip your tattoo artist?

Tattoo artists in the U.S. and other countries rely on tips as a major component of their earnings, similar to servers in restaurants. So is it rude to get a tattoo and not leave a tip?

The answer is generally yes – it is quite rude to not tip your tattoo artist. Here’s why it’s expected and what’s considered a fair tip amount:

  • Tattoo artists only receive a portion of the total cost. The tattoo shop/parlor takes a cut first.
  • There is a big time investment. A multi-hour large scale tattoo requires a lot of the artist’s time.
  • It takes skill. Tattooing is an acquired skilled trade that merits compensation.
  • There are physical demands. Tattooing is hunched over meticulous work for long periods.
  • Supplies are costly. Artists purchase expensive equipment, ink, needles, etc. out of pocket.
  • It creates awkward dynamics to not tip. The artist may decline to work with you again.

The standard tattoo tip amount is 15-25% of the total cost. On very large or complex multi-session tattoos, you may tip 10-15% for each session. If the artist does an exceptional job, tipping 20-30% or more is appreciated.

Should you tip for a tattoo touch up?

Touch ups or fixes are usually part of the initial cost and agreement when you get a tattoo. However, it’s thoughtful to offer a tip at the end of the touch up appointment as well. Since touch ups only take 10-30 minutes typically, tip around $10-20.

How to politely decline talking

If you don’t want to talk during your tattoo appointment, the polite way to go about it is to:

  • Greet your artist and engage initially – ask questions about the process, make basic introductory small talk.
  • politiely tell them you hope you don’t come across as rude, but you prefer to relax and zone out quietly during the tattoo. Explain it’s not personal and you appreciate their work.
  • Assure them you will speak up about any issues and check in periodically.
  • Occasionally give feedback during the appointment so you’re not completely silent the entire time.
  • Show appreciation for their work verbally and with a good tip at the end!

This shows respect for the artist while still allowing you to stick to your personal preference. As long as you communicate your reasons politely upfront, most tattooists will understand.

Does making conversation affect tattoo pain?

Many people find chatting takes their mind off the pain and discomfort of getting tattooed. The conversation provides a positive distraction. However, some disagree and say talking doesn’t help them handle the pain any better.

There hasn’t been specific research on whether conversation affects tattoo pain. Some related studies have found:

  • Listening to music during a tattoo lowered anxiety but didn’t affect pain levels.
  • Distraction techniques are shown to reduce pain in medical procedures.
  • Meditation and conscious breathing can help manage pain.
  • Individual pain tolerance and thresholds vary greatly.

So in general, pleasant distraction from the pain seems to help some people cope better. But it really depends on your personal pain response and tolerance. Some find concentration and inner focus better than chit-chat for managing tattoo discomfort. Talk to your artist about options if you struggle with anxiety or pain during the process.

Conclusion

There are reasonable arguments on both sides of whether it’s rude to not talk during a tattoo appointment. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and effective communication.

If you don’t want to chat much, be upfront about it in a polite way. Explain you mean no disrespect, but prefer to quietly focus or relax. Check in occasionally, show appreciation, and tip well. As long as you convey gratitude for the artist’s work, most will not take offense to your lack of small talk.

However, be prepared that some very chatty artists may prefer clients who converse. In that case, find a tattooist more compatible with your personality and comfort level.

While you shouldn’t feel pressured to talk nonstop, basic manners still go a long way. A few pleasant exchanges of conversation can make the experience more comfortable for both you and your tattoo artist.

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