The artists at Hart & Huntington are often asked how they come up with pricing for their tattoos. Isaac Bills and JC Hernandez break it down for you, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

First, what makes one tattoo more valuable than another? Isaac explains:

Three things; size, detail and position on the body. All three factors influence price.

And it’s all about the artist when it comes to those factors, too.

Certain types of tattoos require higher skills, such as accurately rendering a portrait for example. There are a lot of people who can’t tattoo something realistically like that. Those artists who can are worth more.

Of course, size matters, too. But sometimes, as Isaac says, it’s all about the detail.

If a small area is populated with lots of details, there is more work per square inch. So that costs more.

JC adds:

The design and complexity of it will bring up the cost, depending on how intricate it might be.

Color doesn’t necessarily add complexity, but it can add to the cost of materials and to the risk of healing properly. But then there’s placement. Some body parts are harder than others.

There are areas that are harder to tattoo because the skin is different, JC says.

The neck for example is a little more bouncy. But the arms, legs and back are easier.

Quality of the shop itself is another big factor. JC compares it to buying a car:

There is a difference between shops, just like buying a car. Think of buying a Porsche versus buying a Honda. The experience is totally different and you pay more for the higher end experience. You will get a different tattoo at the Flea Market than you will at Hart & Huntington in Universal Studios.

Isaac drops the mic:

We are located in nice places. You’ll find a beautiful shop and a great experience. Your needs will be met and you won’t be on edge. Most people will pay more for that.

So when you’re considering a tattoo, Issac and JC say that the price comes down to these 4 factors:

1. Size & complexity: How big and how intricate the piece is
2. Quality of talent: The caliber of the artist and the quality of the work they do
3. Placement: Some body parts are more challenging than others
4. Quality of the shop: Good location, clean and sterile, thoughtful amenities