Choosing a Tattoo Machine

Perhaps a tattoo machine is the most important tool to invest in for a professional tattoo artist. The worth of a good, easy to use and lightweight tattoo machine is unmatched.

The Greatest Invention

Thomas Alva Edison indeed was the greatest inventor in the human history. The invention of the first tattoo machine, or not exactly a tattoo machine, is credited to him, which is also known as Stencil-Pens. This machine formed the base of the modern tattoo machine, which helps many artists earn their bread and butter. A modern tattoo machine is a simple hand-held equipment, which makes permanent designs on the skin using the ink.

The common term for the tattoo machines among the professional tattoo artists is “Iron”. These tattoo machines use the alternating electromagnetic coils present in them to automatically move the needles up and down alternatively. This alternative movement pushes the pigment into the skin thus enabling the artist to carve beautiful designs.

Growing in Popularity

With the Hollywood movie stars and celebrities sporting different types of attractive tattoos, most fans all over the world are experimenting with different types and styles of tattoos to beautify their body. Thus, demand for good tattoo artists is growing and a tattoo artist is only as good as his tattoo machine. Thus, it inevitable to be extremely careful while choosing a tattoo machine.

Factors to Consider

Size of the Tattoo Machine:

This is the most vital factor while choosing a tattoo machine. A tattoo machine should be comfortable in your hand. It should not create any type of burden in your hand or you have a lose grip. There are a variety of sizes in the market and you must try different sizes to find the tattoo machine that grips nicely in your hand.

Weight:

Since drawing a tattoo is a job that involves constant use of hand so the weight of the tattoo machine should not be tiresome for your hands. Look into what metal has been used to make your tattoo machine. A lightweight machine helps the artist work with full attention and precision.

Automation of Speed and Pressure:

If your budget allows then you must go for a tattoo machine that automates the speed of the needle movement and the pressure that it applies on the skin. As it is very important to apply the right amount of pressure to put the pigment at the right depth in the skin so that it stays for longer time. It eases the job of a tattoo artist thus making it possible for them to completely focus on the drawing and caricature part.

Coil Sizes and Types of Needles:

Last parameter to choose a tattoo machine would be to look in to what size of the coil is fitted in your instrument. As the coil size depends upon the kind of the needle you will use for outlining and shading.