How Much Does a Spine Tattoo Cost?

Tattoos are a form of self-expression, so they come with everything that defines freedom.

Besides the design, you’re also free to pick the placement.

There are many interesting placements for a tattoo.

Have you seen one that runs down the spine?

It looks stunning, but you may wonder if this placement has drawbacks.

After all, tattoos are notorious for causing severe pain especially when they’re in close proximity to the bones.

That aside, there’s no denying that these tattoos look very elegant.

Some people have a defined spine that’s very visible from the outside.

There’s something unmistakably gorgeous about a tattoo that follows the natural contours of the spine.

It looks as if the tattoo is designed to conform to the shape, not the other way around.

Whether this interests you or not, it’s important to be well-informed about this particular placement.

You can look up some info online or talk directly to a tattoo artist to see if this is something he’d encourage or not.

An experienced artist should know common difficulties associated with the location.

How much does a spine tattoo cost?

You’ll find the answer below.

The average price for spine tattoos

First off, tattoo prices are highly variable. There are many factors that contribute to it other than location.

The spine is one of the difficult places to get a tattoo right because the pain may keep disrupting the session.

Thus, know your pain tolerance before sitting through a lengthy session.

Speaking of cost, you can expect the minimum amount to be around $100.

The spine extends quite long, so there’s much room for a tattoo.

If you want it to go all the way down, then the covered area would be quite expansive, which will affect the price.

The details are another thing to take into account.

Even if you ask for a large tattoo, it should cost less than one with more details assuming they’re the same size.

Meanwhile, a large tattoo can cost in the $100-$300 range.

It can be pricier if you decide to incorporate numerous colors.

As a general rule, colored tattoos are typically more expensive than black ones.

If you want to bring it to life with colors, then the fee will rise. It’s also worth noting that some artists offer an hourly rate.

For someone that charges on an hourly basis, as long as you know the rate, it should be easy to make an estimate.

The nature of the tattoo would also determine the cost.

As we know, a complex tattoo would take longer to finish, so the amount will add up quickly.

It may even exceed $500 when all is said and done.

Things to know before getting a spine tattoo

Always be prepared for a tattoo even if it’s not your first project.

Every tattoo is a different experience, which should differ from the previous one.

A spine tattoo is unique not only in terms of appearance but also in pain intensity.

The spine is said to be one of the most vulnerable parts of the body that can be greatly affected by an injury.

With that in mind, you should know all the basics of getting a spine tattoo, such as the risks, pain, etc.

Besides preparation, aftercare also matters.

Please do something to sterilize the area while the tattoo is healing because the infection is no joke.

It can mess up with the look of the tattoo on top of causing health problems.

A. Do tattoos on the spine hurt?

While it’s true that everybody has a different pain threshold, places with little fat tend to hurt more for a tattoo.

And in this case, the spine fits the criteria.

The worst part is it also houses the nervous system, so pain is inevitable.

On a scale of 1 to 10, to some it is a solid 4, which means it’s indeed painful, but not the worst out of all locations in the body.

Your artist just needs to do it more quickly, so you can get over it sooner.

We think it’s achievable especially since the design is quite simple.

Now if it’s a bit more complex, maybe cut the time shorter.

Many describe the pain to be on par with a rib cage tattoo.

Surprisingly, it’s still less hurtful than pricking the ribs with a cluster of needles.

To cope with the pain, just be open with your artist.

The only way he knows if it hurts bad is if you say it yourself.

There’s no need to act tough because getting a tattoo is not a competition.

If there’s something you can do to ease the pain, then why not?

Some painkillers will do wonders, too, but don’t forget to let your artist know.

B. How do you prepare for a spine tattoo?

First, make sure you eat before heading off to the shop.

Though you may have committed to skipping a lengthy session, having a good meal keeps you from being lethargic and low energy throughout the session.

Don’t come with an empty stomach.

Instead of disrupting the process to eat, better just do it at home.

Second, drink more water. Staying hydrated is crucial because water helps make the skin more supple.

Since the ink will be injected into the skin, it needs to be in tip-top condition before the gun starts working on it.

Now when it comes to clothes, you can wear anything. But remember that a spine tattoo is placed right inside a shirt.

You wouldn’t want to rub it for a while because it’s going to sting.

If you’re a man, wear something that’s easy to take off, like a button-down shirt.

If you’re a woman, the biggest concern is probably to hide your private area.

Don’t worry, you can cover it up with tape or a band.

As for the outfit, it could be anything that makes you comfortable.

For more information about spine tattoo preparation, you can check out this video:

C. How can I make my spine tattoo hurt less?

Start by finding an experienced tattoo artist because they know how to deal with pain especially in more sensitive areas like the spine.

Don’t be too fixated on getting a cheap price.

If you can afford more, then spend more for better quality.

And then, come with a clear mind.

You should go to the tattoo shop stress-free. Being in a good mental state helps with how you perceive pain.

And then, drink lots of water because supple skin also contributes to a smooth tattoo session.

Quite the contrary, getting a tattoo on dry skin can be more painful.

You should also not do it if you feel unwell.

For the record, being sick also affects how you feel pain.

Last but not least, skin-numbing cream will help relieve some pain.

You can ask your tattoo artist.

D. How long do spine tattoos take?

They vary by size and complexity.

The larger the tattoo, the longer it takes to complete.

A small tattoo, for instance, usually takes less than an hour, but it also depends on the number of details you want to add to the tattoo.

Meanwhile, a larger tattoo can take up to 8 hours, but due to the pain and all difficulties, your artist may suggest splitting it into several sessions.

You can take the advice if the tattooing inflicts so much pain or discomfort.

Or if you think you can handle all that, then go for it. Just make sure to prepare better.

E. Can a spine tattoo paralyze you?

Having fear is normal especially because the tattoo is done on a place that houses the nervous system.

However, spine tattoos are still performed to this day, which kind of confirms that they’re not that dangerous.

While the pain can be bad, the side effects aren’t as bad as some people make out to be.

Running a tattoo gun on the back isn’t likely to injure the spinal cord.

Although the needle goes somewhat deeper, that’s not to the point where it causes irreversible damage like paralysis.

If you’re still concerned about this issue, discuss it with your tattoo artist.

We’re sure he can shed some light on it.

The bigger concern would be if the equipment is properly sterilized, which a licensed artist will have no problem doing because it’s part of the safety precautions.

Final Thoughts

How much does a spine tattoo cost?

As said before, it could cost as low as $100 to more than $500.

It depends on factors like size, design, colors, etc.

The only way to know the cost for sure is by asking the artist directly.

He would love to share the information.

This way, you know in advance how much the spine tattoo would cost.

If you can afford it, then you can proceed.

But if you’re looking for a more affordable option, it’s okay to look elsewhere.

At the end of the day, tattoos vary greatly in price. There is an option for every budget.