Tattoo artist contract template
Independent tattoo artists lose money in exactly three places: no-shows, endless design changes, and clients who want the drawing without the tattoo. One short agreement, signed on the client's phone before the appointment, fixes all three.
The template
1. Appointment and depositSession on [date] at [time], estimated [3] hours at [rate] per hour / flat [amount]. A non-refundable deposit of [amount] reserves the appointment and is deducted from the final price.
2. DesignArtist will present a design by [date]. [One] round of changes is included. Larger changes, a new concept, or changes requested on the day may move the appointment and are charged at [rate] per hour of drawing time.
3. Rescheduling and no-showsClient may reschedule once with at least [72] hours' notice and keep the deposit. Less notice, or not showing up, forfeits the deposit. Artist will offer a new date if Artist cancels.
4. Health and consentClient confirms they are 18 or over, not under the influence, and have disclosed relevant medical conditions, allergies and medications. Client has received aftercare instructions and understands healing depends on following them.
5. Artwork rightsThe design is Artist's original work and remains Artist's property. Client receives the tattoo and may photograph it freely; the drawing itself may not be reproduced or taken to another artist. Artist may photograph the finished tattoo for a portfolio and social media unless Client opts out in writing.
6. Touch-upsOne touch-up within [6] months is included if aftercare was followed. Further work is quoted separately.
Paperwork makes the agreement and the deposit receipt from one form, signed on their phone at the consult.Paperwork fills the proposal, contract, invoice, SOW, NDA and change order from one form, and your client signs from a link. $19 once. Try the free demo first.
Why the deposit is non-refundable
A tattoo appointment is hours of your calendar nobody else can use. Say it at booking, put it in writing, and take the deposit before you start drawing. Clients who balk at a deposit are the ones who no-show.
One round of design changes
Drawing time is work. One included round keeps the client engaged without turning your evenings into unpaid revisions. Charging for extra rounds is normal in every other design trade; it is normal here too.
Consent is not the contract
Most studios also use a separate consent and health form required by local regulations. Keep using it. This agreement covers the money and the artwork; clause 4 is a short acknowledgement, not a replacement for the regulated form.
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