The essential tattoo tools include Tattoo Machines, Machine Components and Grips, and Needles.
Tattoo tools are defined as the instruments and parts tattoo artists use to apply ink safely and effectively, while maintaining precision, comfort, and hygiene.
The 3 main tattoo tool groups include machines, components and grips, and needles. Tattoo machines include coil, rotary, pen-style, and pneumatic machines, each providing different power, comfort, and handling for artists. Machine components and grips include grips, needle cartridges, sleeves, screws, and bars, all of which allow the artist to control the machine and adapt it to different techniques. Needles include liners, shaders, magnums, rounds, flats, curved magnums, and bugpins, each shaping how the ink enters the skin and defining the look of the tattoo.
Each tattoo tool group has its own purpose and effect, showing how machines deliver power, components provide handling and control, and needles create the final lines, shades, and textures of tattoos.
1. Tattoo Machines
Tattoo machines include coil tattoo machines, rotary tattoo machines, pen-style tattoo machines, and pneumatic tattoo machines. Each type has its own feel, function, and best use, giving tattoo artists different tools for different tattooing needs.
4 tattoo machines that are the main part of tattoo tools are given below.
Coil Tattoo Machines:
How it works: Uses magnets to move the needle.
Feel and sound: Heavy and makes a buzzing sound.
Best for: Strong, solid outlines. Often used in traditional tattoo styles.
Pros of the Coil:
- Needle feedback is very clear, giving tattoo artists a strong sense of control.
- Power and punch make outlines crisp and bold.
Things to know:
- Extra weight can tire the tattoo artist’s hand during long sessions.
- Regular tuning and upkeep are necessary.
Note: Many tattoo artists keep one coil for outlining and another for shading.
Rotary Tattoo Machines:
How it works: Uses a small motor to move the needle.
Feel and sound: Lightweight and quiet.
Best for: Versatile use with lines, shading, and color.
Pros of the Rotary:
- Lightweight build allows tattoo artists to work longer without fatigue.
- Minimal maintenance compared to coils.
Things to know:
- Softer needle feel on the skin, which some tattoo artists prefer.
Note: A popular choice since one machine can cover most tasks.
Pen-Style Tattoo Machines:
How it works: A rotary machine shaped like a pen.
Feel and sound: Very light and ergonomic.
Best for: Fine lines, detail work, and long tattoo sessions.
Pros of the Pen-Style:
- Ergonomic design reduces tattoo artist hand strain.
- Cartridge system makes setup quick and simple.
Things to know:
- Higher cost compared to other types.
Note: The closest feel to drawing with a pen, giving the tattoo artist precision and control.
Pneumatic Tattoo Machines:
How it works: Powered by air pressure from a compressor.
Feel and sound: Extremely light and nearly silent. Best for: Sterile environments or medical-style precision.
Pros of the Pneumatic:
- Entire machine can be sterilized in an autoclave.
- Air-driven motion allows tattoo artists very precise needle control.
Things to know:
- Air hose attachment can limit tattoo artist movement.
- Less common than coil or rotary machines.
Note: A niche tool valued by tattoo artists for its sterilization benefits.
2. Machine Components and Grips
Machine components and grips are the parts you hold and connect to the tattoo machine. They are key for control, comfort, and safety. The right setup makes tattooing easier and safer for both the tattoo artist and the client.
4 important machine components and grips that play a major role in tattooing are given below.
Grip Types
What it is: The part the tattoo artist holds onto.
- Disposable: Made of plastic. Used once and thrown away. Best for cleanliness.
- Autoclaveable: Usually made of steel or titanium. Can be sterilized and used again.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and strong. Also sterilized for reuse. Feels good in the hand.
Note: The choice depends on the tattoo artist’s preference for feel and their cleaning routine.
Needle Cartridges
What it is: A holder that contains the needle. It attaches directly to the tattoo machine.
- Standard: The most common type. Good for most tattooing jobs.
- Flow-Through: Has a special design that holds more ink. Means fewer dips into the ink cap.
- Specialty: Made for specific tasks, like very detailed lines or special textures.
Note: Cartridges are popular because they are easy to use and make setup fast.
Rubber Bands / Grip Sleeves
What it is: Rubber bands or silicone sleeves that go around the grip.
Purpose: They help the tattoo artist hold the tattoo machine securely. Prevent slipping.
Extra use: Also help to hold the needle bar in place on coil tattoo machines.
Note: A simple part that is very important for control and safety.
Contact Screws / Armature Bars
What it is: Key parts found only on coil tattoo machines.
- Contact Screw: Adjusts how far the needle moves in and out.
- Armature Bar: The metal bar that the magnets pull down to move the needle.
Purpose: These parts need to be adjusted correctly for the tattoo machine to work properly.
Note: Understanding these is important for tattoo artists who use and tune coil machines.
3. Tattoo Needles
Needles are the part that actually enters the skin to deposit ink. They are grouped and arranged in different ways to perform specific tasks. Choosing the right needle type is one of the most important decisions for creating different effects in a tattoo.
These are single-use, sterile items that are opened in front of the client.
6 main types of tattoo needles that help tattoo artists achieve different results are given below.
Liner Needles
What it is: Needles grouped tightly together in a round pattern.
Purpose: Used primarily for making the outlines of a tattoo.
- Tight Liner: Needles are very close for a sharp, fine line.
- Standard Liner: The most common configuration for general outlining.
- Loose Liner: Needles have more space for a softer, more textured line.
Note: The tighter the grouping, the sharper the line it can produce.
Magnum (Shader) Needles
What it is: Needles grouped in a flat, straight row.
Purpose: Used for shading and filling in large areas with color or black.
- Standard Magnum: The classic shading needle. Good for smooth shading.
- Stacked Magnum: Two rows of needles that are closer together. Creates a more solid, saturated fill.
- Weaved Magnum: Two rows of needles with more space between them. Creates a softer, more gradual shade.
Note: Magnums are the most common needle type for shading.
Round Shader Needles
What it is: Needles grouped in a round formation, but with more space between them than a liner.
Purpose: Used for both shading and coloring. Good for soft blends and packing color in small areas.
Note: Offers more texture than a magnum needle.
Flat Shader Needles
What it is: Needles arranged in a single, straight, flat row.
Purpose: An older style needle sometimes used for traditional styles or specific texturing effects.
Note: Less common today, largely replaced by magnum needles.
Curved Magnum Needles
What it is: A magnum needle where the tips are curved to form a slight arc.
Purpose:
- Designed to be gentler on the skin.
- The curve helps the needles enter the skin at a more consistent angle and depth.
Note: Often chosen for working on more sensitive or curved areas of the body.
Bugpin Needles
What it is: Not a grouping, but a description of the needle thickness. Bugpin needles are thinner than standard needles.
Purpose: Thinner needles allow for finer, more detailed work with less skin trauma.
Note: Often used in delicate styles like fine-line or realism tattoos.
4. Power and Control Tattoo Tools
Power and control equipment manages the electricity that runs the tattoo machine. It allows the tattoo artist to control the speed and force of the needle. A reliable setup is essential for consistent results and a smooth tattooing process.
This is the fundamental tattoo equipment that makes the tattoo machine run.
3 main power and control components that support tattoo machines are given below.
Tattoo Power Supplies
What it is: The main box that provides power to the tattoo machine.
Purpose: Controls the voltage, which changes the tattoo machine’s speed and power.
- Digital Displays: Modern supplies show exact voltage numbers for precise adjustments.
- Analog Dials: Older style uses a turning knob without a screen.
Note: A stable power supply prevents the tattoo machine from running inconsistently.
Foot Pedals / Switches
What it is: A control pressed by the tattoo artist’s foot.
Purpose: Turns the tattoo machine on and off without using the hands.
This allows the tattoo artist to focus on guiding the tattoo machine.
Note: Essential for keeping the process sterile and hands-free.
Clip Cords / Wireless Systems
What it is: The cable that connects the tattoo machine to the power supply.
- Clip Cord: A traditional wire with clips on each end. It requires cleaning and can sometimes get in the way.
- Wireless System: Uses a battery pack attached to the tattoo machine. This removes the cord completely for greater freedom of movement.
Note: Wireless systems are becoming popular for their convenience and lack of clutter.
5. Preparation and Setup Tattoo Tools
Preparation and setup tools are the essential supplies used to prepare the skin and equipment before the tattooing process begins. Proper setup ensures a clean, safe, and efficient workflow, allowing the tattoo artist to focus on applying the tattoo.
3 main preparation and setup tools that support the tattoo process are given below.
Vaseline / Barrier Ointment
What it is: A petroleum-based or vegan-friendly ointment.
Purpose: Applied thinly to the skin before and during tattooing.
- Creates a protective barrier that helps wipe away excess ink without smearing the stencil.
- Keeps the skin lubricated, reducing friction and irritation.
Note: Only a small amount is used; too much can interfere with ink application.
Transfer Paper / Stencil Solution
What it is: Specialized paper and liquid used to copy the design onto the skin.
- Transfer Paper: A thermal paper that holds the design outline. It is printed using a thermal copier.
- Stencil Solution: A liquid applied to the skin that transfers the design from the paper, creating a temporary blue or purple guide.
Note: This stencil is the crucial map the tattoo artist follows to ensure the design is applied accurately.
Ink Caps
What it is: Small, disposable cups used to hold ink during the tattooing process.
Purpose: To provide a clean, organized workspace and prevent cross-contamination of colors.
- They are single-use and discarded after each client for strict hygiene.
Note: Tattoo artists prepare multiple caps with different colors and shades before starting to maintain an efficient workflow.
6. Tattoo Inks and Pigments
Inks are the colored pigments suspended in a carrier solution that are deposited into the skin to create a permanent design. The quality and type of ink used are critical for the tattoo’s vibrancy, healing, and long-term appearance.
3 main types of tattoo inks and pigments used by tattoo artists are given below.
Black Ink
What it is: The most commonly used tattoo pigment, available in different formulations.
- Linework Black: A thicker, more concentrated ink designed to hold sharp, solid lines.
- Shading Black: A thinner ink, often called “wash,” that can be diluted to create smooth gray shades and gradients.
Note: Many tattoo artists use a single black ink for both purposes by manually diluting it with a solution for shading.
Color Inks
What it is: Pigments available in a wide spectrum of colors.
- Organic Inks: Made with natural-derived ingredients. Known for vibrant colors.
- Vegan Inks: Contain no animal-derived products (e.g., no bone char, glycerin from animal fat). A popular ethical choice.
- Premium Inks: Produced by reputable brands to ensure consistency, sterility, and high pigment density for better saturation.
Note: Premium brands often offer extensive color sets designed for specific styles, like realism or traditional tattoos.
White Highlight Ink
What it is: A thick, opaque white pigment.
Purpose: Used at the end of the process to add fine highlights, create contrast, and brighten areas of the design.
- Sometimes mixed with colors to create pastel shades.
Note: White ink can be challenging to work with and may require multiple passes. It may also fade more noticeably over time compared to other colors.
7. Aftercare and Maintenance Tattoo Tools
Aftercare and maintenance tools are essential for hygiene, equipment upkeep, and client safety. Proper cleaning and sterilization prevent infection and ensure the longevity of expensive tattoo equipment. This is a non-negotiable part of a professional tattoo practice.
3 main aftercare and maintenance tools used in tattooing are given below.
Autoclave or Sterilizer Tool
What it is: A medical-grade device that uses high-pressure steam to kill all microorganisms, including viruses and bacteria.
Purpose: To sterilize reusable tools like machine grips, needle bars, and tips, making them safe for the next client.
- It is the only method that guarantees complete sterilization.
Note: Tools must be placed in sterilization pouches and undergo a full cycle to be considered sterile.
Ultrasonic Cleaner
What it is: A small tank filled with a cleaning solution that uses high-frequency sound waves to clean tools.
Purpose: To remove dried ink, blood, and biological debris from tools before they are sterilized in the autoclave.
- It is a cleaning step, not a sterilization method.
Note: Using an ultrasonic cleaner ensures the autoclave can sterilize the surfaces of the tools effectively.
Green Soap and Cleaning Solutions
What it is: A gentle, antiseptic surgical scrub diluted with water.
Purpose: To disinfect the client’s skin before tattooing and to clean the work area and equipment during the tattooing process.
- It is used throughout the procedure to maintain a clean field.
Note: Green soap is a staple in tattoo studios for its effectiveness and mildness on the skin.
What Equipment Do You Need to Start a Professional Tattoo Business?
The tattoo equipment needed to start a professional tattoo business includes essential tattoo tools that ensure safety, precision, and efficiency for both the tattoo artist and the client.
13 tattoo supplies list that tattoo artist needs are given below.
1. Tattoo Machines
Tattoo machines are the primary tattoo tools used to create designs on skin. Choose between rotary tattoo machines (quiet, versatile, comfortable) or coil tattoo machines (powerful, classic, great for lining). Many tattoo artists have multiple tattoo machine tools for different tasks.
2. Power Supply
Tattoo power supplies are essential tools that provide regulated voltage to your tattoo machine for consistent performance. Digital models offer precise control. Ensure the tool is compatible with your tattoo machine type for safety and quality.
3. Tubes, Tips, and Grips
Tattoo tubes, tips, and grips are tools that the tattoo artist holds during the tattooing process. Disposable grip tools are best for hygiene. Tip tools guide the needle and control ink flow. Available in stainless steel, titanium, or plastic.
4. Needles
Tattoo needles are pre-sterilized, disposable tools used to deposit ink into the skin. Needle tools come in configurations such as liners for outlines and magnums for shading or color. Quality of these tools is critical for results and client safety.
5. Ink
Tattoo inks are professional-grade pigment tools used to create permanent designs. Only use ink tools from reputable brands to ensure better pigment, vibrancy, and longevity of the tattoo.
6. Client Chairs and Beds
Tattoo client chairs and beds are essential positioning tools that provide adjustable, hydraulic support for proper client comfort during long tattoo sessions.
7. Artist Stool
Tattoo artist stools are ergonomic tools that provide back support and stability for the tattoo artist during hours of tattooing.
8. Procedure Lamps
Tattoo procedure lamps are illumination tools that provide bright, adjustable lighting so the tattoo artist can see fine details clearly.
9. Tattoo Trolley / Cart
Tattoo trolleys or carts are organization tools that allow tattoo artists to store and access tattoo machine tools, inks, needles, and hygiene products efficiently.
10. Thermal Printer & Transfer Paper
Thermal printers and transfer paper are design transfer tools that help tattoo artists copy designs from paper to skin. The thermal printer tool creates precise stencils on carbon-based transfer paper.
11. Autoclave
Autoclaves are sterilization tools that ensure all reusable tattoo tools, such as grips and tubes, are medical-grade clean using steam and pressure.
12. Cleaning & Disinfectant Supplies
Tattoo cleaning and disinfectant supplies are hygiene tools that include ultrasonic cleaners, alcohol, and EPA-registered disinfectants for cleaning tattoo machine tools, surfaces, and autoclaves.
13. Medical Waste Containers
Tattoo medical waste containers are safety tools that include puncture-proof sharps containers for needles and biohazard bins for contaminated waste like gloves and gauze.
What are the tattoo consumables and sundries used for at each tattoo station?
The tattoo consumables and sundries are supporting tools for each tattoo station:
- Nitrile Gloves: Hygiene tools changed constantly during tattooing.
- Green Soap: Cleaning tools used as an antiseptic for skin preparation.
- Vaseline: Lubrication tools that protect and reduce friction on the skin.
- Dental Bibs & Paper Towels: Cleaning tools for draping and wiping surfaces.
- Ink Cups & Trays: Organization tools for holding tattoo inks and supplies.
- Stencil Applicator (Stencil Stuff): Transfer tool to create the design guide.
- Wash Bottles: Fluid tools for holding water or green soap mix during tattooing.
What are the 3 fundamental needle groupings for tattooing?
The 3 fundamental needle groupings are Liners, Magnums (Shaders), and Round Shaders.
- Liners (RL): Needles arranged in a tight, circular pattern. Used exclusively for tattooing outlines and fine details. Their tight configuration allows for sharp, precise lines.
- Magnums (RS/M1): Needles arranged in a flat, brush-like configuration. Used for shading, coloring, and filling large areas. The wider spread allows tattoo artists to lay down smooth gradients efficiently.
- Round Shaders (RS): Needles stacked in a circular grouping, creating a thicker, denser version of a liner. They are versatile, used for both bold lines and soft shading, making them excellent for traditional styles and lettering.
These three groupings form the core of all tattooing techniques. While many specialized configurations exist, virtually every tattoo relies on a combination of these three for outlining, coloring, and shading.
What is the best tattoo machine for beginners?
The Rotary Machine, or a modern Pen-style Rotary, is the best tattoo machine for beginners.
- Ease of Use: Rotary machines are typically plug-and-play and require no tuning, allowing beginners to focus entirely on technique.
- Versatility: A good rotary machine can handle both lining and shading by adjusting the voltage, eliminating the need to switch between machines.
- Forgiving Nature: They run quieter, with less vibration and a softer “hit,” reducing skin trauma and making it easier to learn needle control.
- Comfort & Ergonomics: Pen-style rotary machines are lightweight and ergonomic, reducing hand fatigue during long practice sessions.
Do you need different grips for tattoo lining and shading?
No, you don’t need different grips for tattoo lining and shading because the grip’s main function is to hold the needle cartridge and provide comfort. The result of a line versus a shade is determined by the type of needle, the machine’s settings, and the tattoo artist’s technique.
Grip choice is primarily about diameter and texture for personal comfort and control, and many tattoo artists use the same grip for all procedures. Using disposable grips for each client is the modern standard, making it hygienic and cost-effective without needing separate grips for lining and shading.
