Insights from an Experienced Tattoo Artist
Embarking on the journey of becoming a tattoo artist is both thrilling and challenging. One of the primary concerns for beginners is the equipment, specifically, how many tattoo machines they need to start. This article delves deep into the world of tattoo machines, offering insights from seasoned professionals to guide aspiring artists.1. Understanding the Different Types of Tattoo Machines
Before deciding on the number of machines, it’s crucial to understand the different types available:- Liner Machines: These are designed for creating clean lines. They run faster and use smaller needles.
- Shader Machines: Used for shading and coloring, these machines run slower and use larger needles to fill in color or create gradients.
- Rotary Tattoo Machines: A versatile option, rotary machines can be used for both lining and shading. They have an electric motor that drives the needle.
- Pneumatic Machines: These are newer in the market, powered by air compressors, and can be used for both lining and shading.
- Coil Tattoo Machines: Traditional and popular, these use electromagnetic coils to drive the needle and can be set up for either lining or shading.
2. How Many?
So, to figure out how many tattoo machines you need for the job, it’s worth understanding what style you’re working in. If we’re talking about versatility, you’ll need at least two machines: a liner and a shader. Coil machines are usually sold as a pair in such a kit. If you choose a tattoo pen, it can be one machine with a customizable needle stroke, because by changing the settings you will be able to do both contours and shading. At the same time, if you buy a wireless pen machine, you need at least two wireless power supplies to work continuously.
If you have a busy clientele and work many hours a day, we recommend buying a tattoo machine so you have something to replace your main tool in case of breakage.
But remember, you can only figure out which tattoo machine for beginners will be the best for you by practicing. Especially when starting, a versatile machine like a rotary can be invaluable. It allows you to experiment with both lining and shading.
3. Starting Out: Quality Over Quantity
For beginners, the temptation might be to buy multiple machines. However, the consensus among experienced artists is to start with one or two high-quality machines. Here’s why:- Mastering the Craft: Starting with a single machine allows you to focus on mastering the basics without getting overwhelmed.
- Budget: High-quality machines can be expensive. It’s better to invest in one good machine than multiple subpar ones.
4. Expanding Your Toolkit
As you gain experience and confidence, you might feel the need to expand your toolkit. Here’s when you might consider adding more machines:- Convenience: Switching between lining and shading on a single machine can be time-consuming. Having separate machines can speed up the process.
- Backup: Machines can sometimes malfunction. Having a backup ensures you don’t have to reschedule appointments.