
Also know, which way does the needle go in a tattoo gun? Hold the needle bar with the needle part facing up and the bar down. Hold the tube with wash-out facing up.
What is the best needle for tattooing?
Magnum tattoo needles are the ideal choice for large areas of color because of their ability to deliver a lot of ink. These are great for shading, neo-traditional, and Samoan tattooing. These enable the ink to disperse in a clear-cut line as it’s pins arch at the center. This makes it easy for them to glide on the skin.
How do I put a needle in my sewing machine?
Pull the needle back and lift it a little within the tube and then push it back in. Damaged needles can cause the skin to tear, so take all the time you need to insert it correctly. Once your needle has successfully been placed in the tube, take your machine and slide the tube with the opening and the tip facing upwards through the vice-grip.
What do the numbers on tattoo gun needles mean?
As said earlier, each tattoo gun needle comes with code, this code is a combination of numbers and letters. For instance, 1209RL means a 12 gauge, 09 Round Liner Needle. The 09 in the code means 9 needle counts or 9 pins that are used to make a round grouping.
Can You line a tattoo with an 11 mag needle?
While this may work for some artists, most are not able to line every tattoo with a 9rl and fill it with an 11 mag. Tattoo needles are like the paintbrushes artists use to fill a canvas. I say this because each individual needle grouping can return a different result, depending on how you use it.

How do you put a tattoo needle in a tattoo gun?
3:245:21Tattoo Machine Setup - Needle and Tube - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe needle pull it up towards the armature bar and attach the eye to it by slipping it over the pegMoreThe needle pull it up towards the armature bar and attach the eye to it by slipping it over the peg on the end be careful not to bend the needle any more than necessary.
Where do the prongs go on a tattoo gun?
Attach the prongs of the clip cord to the upper and lower binding posts of the tattoo gun, near the coils. The prongs should attach securely and not come unhooked when the machine is moved.
How do you hook up a tattoo gun?
1:346:44How to tattoo: how to set up a tattoo machine - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd having the rubber bands push against the needle creates a smooth up-and-down travel that'sMoreAnd having the rubber bands push against the needle creates a smooth up-and-down travel that's balanced. So that the Machine the needle isn't rattle around is that the tube.
How far out do you set the needle on tattoo gun?
1:054:27How Far Should Your Needle Be Hanging Out Of Your Tube For ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOut i never put the whole length of that into the skin working off the tip of the needle will giveMoreOut i never put the whole length of that into the skin working off the tip of the needle will give you the best results when you're lining. If you go too deep you'll damage the skin.
Which is positive and negative on a tattoo gun?
The positive lead is fastened to the rear binding post, and the negative to the front binding post. A clip cord is attached to the rear post and the armature bar to deliver electricity from a power supply.
How do you set up a tattoo gun for beginners?
1:295:26HOW TO SETUP A TATTOO MACHINE as a beginner step by stepYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo to set it up. All you need to do is grab the grip. And the tube. Slide the tube there into theMoreSo to set it up. All you need to do is grab the grip. And the tube. Slide the tube there into the grip tighten that up then grab the tip. Put that into the grip there tighten that up grab your needle.
How do you assemble a tattoo gun step by step?
0:004:27How to Put a Tattoo Machine Together - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo if you'll open it up from the I loop end then just slide the needle out very carefully. Set yourMoreSo if you'll open it up from the I loop end then just slide the needle out very carefully. Set your packaging off to the side once you've got your needle out you can set it to the side.
How deep do you go when tattooing?
So, how deep, to be exact, should a needle go into the skin? The answer is – approximately 1/16th inch deep into the skin. This means that the ink will be placed exactly between the 2mm of the dermis layer.
What voltage should a lining tattoo be?
around 7v-9vGenerally most artists use voltages around 7v-9v for lining (8 should be a good start) and 8-10v for shading.
What angle do you tattoo at?
45 degree angleMigliaccio says you should insert the needle into the skin at a 45 degree angle, as if you're sewing the ink into the surface of the skin, and not poke it in too far — less than an eighth of an inch deep.
How far should a tattoo needle stick out of the tube?
The tip of the needle should not be sticking out anymore than 2mm and no less than 1mm. Keep in mind that every person's skin type is different and there is no exact measure. If during your tattoo there are excessive amounts of blood, it is obviously going in too deep.
How do you put a rotary tattoo machine together?
0:115:48Tattoo Machine Assembly - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo when you're assembling your machine you want to make sure that you're not butting. The tips ofMoreSo when you're assembling your machine you want to make sure that you're not butting. The tips of the needles up. Against the interior of the tube. So basically you're just going to gently insert.
How do you set up a coil tattoo machine?
2:1015:32How to setup a COIL TATTOO machine! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHaving that block of Steel on the front there which is gonna help just balance that out. So onceMoreHaving that block of Steel on the front there which is gonna help just balance that out. So once it's on your hand you're not just back-end heavy it's gonna try and balance things out a little bit.
What angle do you hold a tattoo gun?
When using your tattoo machine, it's advisable to hold it at a standard angle of 45 and 60 degrees when putting tattoo ink into the skin. To hold your gun for longer, apply box motion. The box motion usually works more effectively than circles.
What are tattoo needles?
Tattoo needles are like the paintbrushes artists use to fill a canvas. I say this because each individual needle grouping can return a different result, depending on how you use it. There are also different grades and sizes of needles which can affect all aspects of your finished product.
What is flat needle tattoo?
Flat tattoo needles are described as they are constructed. Needles are attached to a bar, side by side, creating a wide but thin end. Due to the thin side-to-side nature of this grouping, care must be taken with hand motion so as to not turn the needle head into a “razor blade” which will cut the skin to shreds if not used correctly. These needles are commonly used for smooth gradation with black work or color, as well as filling solid colors. These groupings are best used with a fast stroke machine for smooth gradient work, or a slow machine for even stippled effects.
What is a stacked magnum needle?
Stacked magnum needles (stacked mags) are a lesser found needle in modern western tattooing. Wile I had used these exclusively when we were building needles in the past, I find it difficult to purchase these from distributors found online. Stacked mags are fantastic for smooth, solid color and most types of black work. Their construction places 2 flat groupings, where the top of the “stack” has a lower needle count (building the grouping like a pyramid), on top of each other. The tightness of the needles decreases the flow of pigment onto the skin when working with them, which makes for a cleaner point of view.
How do needles lose pigment?
You lose most of the pigment in the upper tissues by increasing the traveling distance of the needle. Your machine must work harder to push the needle in which increases machine load.
What needle gauge is used for filling?
#10 – (0.30 mm) These are commonly your average liner needle gauge . They are finer than #’s 12 & 13 so they will more consistently deliver a finer, less traumatized line to the skin.
Why use a smooth needle tip?
This needle tip allows for easier penetration of the skin and a smoother placement of pigment. Smooth tips decrease the amount of trauma the skin experiences. People who have a slower hand speed with a fast running machine should choose this finish over textured needles.
What is a liner needle?
Liner needles are needles assembled on bar with a rounded tip. These groupings are like the fine, detail brushes painters use. They come in many flavours, like these listed below:
How to make a tattoo gun?
1. Arrange the pieces of the tattoo gun. Find the contact screw and the front spring underneath it on the machine itself. The distance between these two points controls the line you are tattooing. Then, put the needle in the tube and insert the tube into the tube slot.
How to keep a tattoo gun from vibrating?
Remember to move the needle slowly to avoid any injuries or mishaps. Keep a firm grip on the need le tube and make sure the machine is above your hand, not below. Tattoo guns can vibrate quite a bit, so it is vital to maintain a strong grip.
What is a footswitch tattoo machine?
The footswitch allows you to control the speed of the needle, while the cord connects the power supply to the machine. These items are sold separate from a tattoo machine kit, but they are not expensive. ...
What is a tattoo machine?
Learn more... A tattoo gun, also referred to as a tattoo machine, is a hand-held device that artists use to create permanent tattoos. Handling a tattoo gun may seem daunting, as it takes intense focus and a steady hand, but the results can be magical. An emphasis on hygiene is a must, both for the artist and the tattoo gun.
What happens if you don't put in the armature bar?
Be sure that the eye loop of the needle is turned to the left when you put the armature bar in. This ensures the needle is inserted correctly. If it is not correct, it could lead to a painful skin piercing with no ink. ...
Can you clean a tattoo?
This can clog skin pores. Cleaning the ink is the only thing you should focus on when the tattoo is done. Let the tattoo sit for some time so the inflammation can calm on its own. Once the ink has settled, apply a small amount of ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage to protect it during the healing process.
Do tattoo parlors use needles?
Many tattoo parlors will use new needles, gloves and ink caps, among other things, for each customer. Nearly everything is discarded after use. All equipment is single service, meaning each set of needles and tubes is packaged individually. This way, the work space stays hygienic and no one is sharing needles.
Basic About Tattoo Gun Needle
The tattoo gun needle is actually a grouping of needles. The precise establishment of the groupings allows the needles to create different effects for the design. The exact number of needles is dependent on the grouping pattern and intended design effect the needles will create.
Why is Tattoo Needle Depth Important?
Setting the tattoo needle to the proper depth is critical in forming an ink design that is attractive and capable of staying in place and looking great for many years. If the ink is not set deep enough it will simply bleed out during the healing. The ink will actually be lifted away as the skin heals and regenerates.
Steps to Set the Tattoo Machine Needle Depth
There are certain steps you have to follow to set the depth of your tattoo needle. Practice setting up your machine using the following steps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Most tattoo professionals agree that the needle should penetrate the skin about 1/16th of an inch. The artist controls the needle penetration and angle making sure that the ink is deposited at or above the third layer of skin. If they deposit the ink too shallow then the ink is sloughed off with the shedding of skin cells.
Our Thoughts
The success of the tattoo is dependent on the depth at which the ink is placed. If the depth is not met precisely the result will be distortion, quick fading, or even raised areas of skin.
Tattoo Machine Needles – What Exactly Does it Do to My Skin?
Tattoos will never be as fast as before they were applied. These devices are the most valuable tools in the arsenal of ink tattoo artists, who use ink to leave a permanent mark on the skin.
How Many Needles Are in a Tattoo Gun
In a tattoo machine, there are two types of needles. Depending on their function, these are either shading or lining needles. Each type of filling can have between one and seven needles. Color-shading needles, on the other hand, are grouped in groups of four to nine needles.
In-Depth Examining Tattoo Machines
Long before the invention of the tattoo machine, the first tattoos were done by hand. Tattoo machines must be programmed to operate at a faster rate than the human hand. Machines were modeled after Thomas Edison invented an electric engraver around the turn of the twentieth century, continuous improvements and evolutions.
How to Clean a Tattoo Machine
Sterilize two tubes, one with the tip and one with the grips, and place them in a bag. To avoid cross-contamination, place each bag in its Autoclave sterilizer tray. If the autoclave has only one tray, sterilize one bag at a time, taking turns with the others as you finish the others. Half-fill the autoclave with distilled water.
What is the diameter of a needle for a tattoo?
The first two digits in a needle code refers to the diameter of the needle. This means that a 1209RL tattoo needle has a #12 or 0.35 mm diameter . The higher the number, the larger the diameter of the needle will be. Understanding diameter is important, as it determines the flow of the ink. The narrower the needle, the more control the tattooist has over the flow of the ink. #10 or 0.30 mm needles are the most commonly used needles for line work because of the accurate thickness these needles offer. While, needles smaller than #10 make it more difficult for the tattooists to draw smooth lines. Smaller needles have a more constricted ink flow. On the other hand, with larger needles, like #12 and #13 and above it becomes difficult for the tattooist to control the flow of the ink.
What are the different types of needles for tattoos?
There are six basic types of tattoo needles, which include, Round Liners Needles, Round Shaders Needles, Magnum Shaders Needles, Curved Magnum Shader Needles, Flat Shaders Needles and Double Stacks Magnum Shaders Needles. Here is a detailed explanation about all these needles along with their uses.
What are magnum shader needles used for?
More often than not, these needles are used for all types of shading and coloring work, Black and Grey Tattoos, Samoan Tattoos, Color Realism, Colorful Tribal Tattoos, Japanese Tattoos, Traditional and Neo-Traditional Tattoo Work. 4. Curved Magnum Shader Needles.
What type of needle is used for shading tattoos?
Maximum shading work is done with Magnum shader needles. This is in fact, one of the most preferred grouping or needle types for all kinds of shading work. The reason behind it is – Magnum Shader needles hold and deliver a lot of ink, which make them perfect for coloring and shading large-sized tattoos. Magnum shader needles come in different variations. More often than not, these needles are used for all types of shading and coloring work, Black and Grey Tattoos, Samoan Tattoos, Color Realism, Colorful Tribal Tattoos, Japanese Tattoos, Traditional and Neo-Traditional Tattoo Work.
What are round needles used for?
More often than not, these needles are used to create crisp, clean lining tattoos. However, the thickness of the line depends on the number of round liners a tattooist chooses. For instance, number 01 will produce a very fine line, while 14 will create a very thick line. Besides, the thickness/gauge of each pin will also define the thickness of the line. Round Liner needles are used to create Dot work , Geometric Patterns, Tribal Artwork, Samoan Style Tattoos, All lining work both bold and intricate, Script and lettering, Traditional and Neo-Traditional Tattoo Works.
How does a tattoo machine work?
Modern tattoo machines pulsate a needle into the skin at around 6,000 motions a minute. And at the same time, this machine pools ink on the surface of the skin. Each time the piercing needle creates a hole, and when it comes out of the skin, it creates a vacuum.
What is a tattoo gun?
Tattoo Machine/Gun. A tattoo machine, also known as a tattoo gun is a hand-held device which is used to create a tattoo, a permanent artwork on the skin with indelible ink. Tattoos have been a tradition for centuries, across the globe. There are many different forms of tattoos styles and methods. Traditionally, Samoan and Thai techniques were used ...
The Types Of Tattoo Needles And Their Uses
There are primarily six tattoo needle types, including Round Liner Needles, Magnum Shader Needles, Round Shader Needles, Flat Shader Needles, Double Stacks Magnum Shader Needles as well as Curved Magnum Shader Needles. I will explain all of them below.
Abbreviations Of The Needle Groupings
Now you will learn the most widely used abbreviations of the needle groupings. It is necessary to know them because they will help you when you buy needles to use in your tattoo studio.
Diameters Of Tattoo Needles
The first pair of digits of every needle code refer to their diameters. That means if you get a tattoo needle with the code ‘1209’ RL, it has a #12 (0.35 mm) diameter. The diameter depends on the number. If the latter is small, it is small, and vice-versa.
Factors That Determine The Use Of Needles In A Tattoo Gun
Many kinds of needles are available in the market, from bugpin to magnum. Each of them has different purposes. Also, a tattoo artist does not need to use all needles at once. Which needle you will have to use depends highly on your artworks and their placements.
How Do I Know Which Needles Are Safe For Use?
If they are sterilized and individually packaged, they are safe for use. Most needles at present are pre-sterile. However, you must remember to check that. If they are not sterile, you will have to sterilize them on your own with the use of an autoclave before tattooing on one’s skin. Sterilized needles have expiration dates.
Final Words
Tattoo needles consist of various needle groupings, varying with the intended use or desired outcome. How many tattoo needles in a tattoo gun are necessary is up to the purpose and grouping. That is why understanding different diameters and groupings play a critical role in this regard.
