How to take tattoo deposits online

Why deposits matter for tattoo studios

Custom work starts long before the client sits down: consultations, reference gathering and drawing time. A deposit commits the client to the slot and covers some of that work if they cancel late or do not turn up.

How much to ask for

Studios commonly ask for a fixed amount for small pieces and a share of the expected price for larger work. Whatever you choose, it should be proportionate: enough to cover the time you lose if the client drops out, not a penalty.

Many studios take the deposit off the final price, which clients find easy to accept. Say so clearly on your booking page.

When a deposit should be refundable

Under UK consumer law, terms that let a business keep more than its actual loss can be unfair, and so unenforceable. A clear policy is the safest approach: say how much notice a client must give to move or cancel, what happens to the deposit in each case, and what happens if you have to cancel.

This guide is general information for UK businesses, not legal advice. If you are unsure whether your terms are fair, check the Consumer Rights Act 2015 guidance from the CMA or speak to an adviser.

• Enough notice given: offer to move the deposit to a new date
• Late cancellation or no-show: keep the part that covers your lost time and work
• You cancel: refund in full or rebook, the client's choice

Taking the deposit when the client books

The simplest system is one where the client cannot book without paying the deposit. In FullCal. you set a deposit on each service, as a fixed amount or a percentage of the price; clients pay by card when they book, straight into your own Stripe account, and the slot is only held while they complete payment.

Turn on booking approval if you want to see each request before it is confirmed, and use the placement step so you know where the piece goes before the consultation.