Tattoos can be an interesting thing! People express their personalities with creative tattoos… But, when getting a tattoo, most people might not think it’s necessary to know much about the equipment used in the process. So, as you are a tattoo artist you need to know thoroughly about these machines along with piercing instruments, it might get difficult to understand how these machines really work!
Well, here’s why — the tools affect the tattoo. Which tattoo machine is being used, the number of needles, and aftercare materials — the right equipment combined with the right artist will result in the best tattoo you could make.
So, let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know about essential tattoo equipment and piercing instruments.
Understanding Piercings and Tattoos
Needles can be the most essential thing for both piercing and tattooing! If you are planning to open a tattoo shop, you need to know about the different kinds of tools that are used while piercing.
Did you know that electromagnetism is the main reason why tattoo machines work like they are supposed to? Basically, electricity flows through the coils of the tattoo machines, thus the coils become magnetized as an outcome.
When the coils are magnetized, the armature bar which is composed of metal, sticks to them and the needle gets pushed. When the armature bar sticks to the coils, the electric current that flows through the coils earlier gets cut off, so the magnetic fields drop. Is it clear, with the process? Now you may get your own tattoo machines.
Fun Fact:
- The needles that you use for inking are made especially for tattoos. They are quite lengthy, but most of these needles pose within the tattoo machines themselves.
- Single needles are commonly used for accuracy work, such as lining, while groups are used for larger pieces, such as those needing shading.
- Do you know that piercing lower gauges are made for larger piercings and higher gauges are used for smaller-sized piercings?
Kinds of Tattoo Machine
In fact, the heart of any tattoo setup, and likely the most recognizable part of tattoo supplies, is the tattoo machines. But did you ever watch a tattoo artist at work? Or you have worked in any tattoo shop?
Then you might surely witness the magic of a tattoo machine in action. But let’s break it down a bit further:
- Coil Tattoo Machines
Possibly it is the most common type, coil tattoo machines mainly use an electromagnetic circuit to move the needle. They’re also known for their precision and are great for shading and lining work.
- More Adjustable
- Customizable
- Easy to repair
Commonly speaking, coil appliances have a punchier hit than rotaries, usually making for bolder lines and weightier colour packing.
- Rotary Tattoo Machines
As a matter of fact, if you are using tattoo machines then you might use a small electric motor to drive the needle, also offering a smoother operation. They’re quieter, lighter, and easier on the skin, which means less healing time for you or your clients.
- Easy to use
- Quieter
- Less vibrate
- Portable
- Lightweight
So, no issue how refined your rotary machine is, there are specific elements of a coil machine you won’t be capable of replicating.
- Pneumatic Tattoo Machines
These tattoo machines are lightweight, easy to maintain, and can be sterilized without disassembly. You might not notice them as frequently, but they are extremely adaptable and well worth considering.
- A quiet
- User-friendly
- low-maintenance
Unlike conventional electric devices that rely on engines, you should use pneumatic machines that feature a packed air compressor that has been attached to a tattoo gun. When the foot pedal is engaged, the compact air is removed, moving the needle and creating detailed designs on the skin.
Know About Piercing Instruments
As a piercer, did you get any orders to do piercing on the desired body parts like ears, lips, or nose? There are various piercing tools like ring opening pliers, piercing callipers, piercing needles, threading tools, and piercing aftercare items that make body piercing a smooth and hassle-free process.
The most important thing is to remember the use of piercing tools for their exact purpose. The piercing instruments will only be as useful as new as long as it is traded with proper care and not mishandled.
Here are some methods of taking good care of the devices:
- Handle gently. As a piercer, you need to be cautious not to drop it because a single drop might make hairline gaps appear in the device, and needless to say, it won’t work correctly next time.
- Any tool that shows a sign of damage should be discarded immediately.
- After using a piercing tool, be sure you clean it with an ultrasonic cleaner. But be cautious to set in the proper combination of keys in the ultrasonic cleaner.
- It is better to put the piercing instruments in warm water or soap water; in case you cannot wash them instantly. The water must be distilled because hard water is known to leave remnants on the tools.
- After purification, be soft with the drying and just behind they are totally dry can you keep them? It is most suitable to apply a water-soluble lubricant before storage though.
Final Thoughts
Quality matters because your clients matter to you. They depend on you with their skin and their idea—don’t let them down by skimping on your supplies. Remember, the right tattoo machine not only makes the job easier; they also make the results better. And isn’t that what tattooing is all about?
