Tattoo Machines

Tattoo Machines

Great artists need great tattoo machines. The better the machine, the easier it will be for the artist to execute his vision (or that of his client) quickly and precisely.  While most artists starting out on their own will already be familiar with whatever tattoo machines were used by their mentors, there are some basic things to consider when shopping around for a new iron, whether it’s a modern electromagnetic machine or an old school rotary machine.

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Electromagnetic Tattoo Machines

Electromagnetic tattoo machines make up the bulk of all machines used by artists today. The invention of this kind of machine has revolutionized the art of tattooing, and has made it possible to ink flesh faster and more accurately than ever with a good power supply.

The Tattoo Machines Coils

The coils are the spine of the tattoo machine (which uses electromagnets to power the needles’ movement), and most tattoo machines have three different types: eight wrap coils, ten-wrap coils, and twelve-wrap coils. The “wrap” refers to the number of times the wire is wrapped around the coil, and the more wraps, the more magnetic the coil becomes.

• Eight-wrap coil tattoo machines: these are primarily used for liner machines with 1, 3, 4, 5 and 7 needle machines. However, if you’re doing bigger outline work that might require an 8- or 14-needle outline, you’re better off using a ten-wrap coil tattoo machine.

• Ten-wrap coil tattoo machines: generally, these are used in shader tattoo machines. The reason for the increased wrap of coil is that the more skin you’re puncturing, the stronger the machine you need.

• Twelve-wrap coil tattoo machines: these are used for heavy shading that requires 11- or 17-needles.

Adaptability

Electromagnetic tattoo machines nowadays are highly adaptable, allowing artists to specify how deep the needle punctures the skin, the speed with which the needle moves, and the force with which it hits the skin. This allows artists to customize their tattoo machine according to their own likes and dislikes, and to adapt to whatever their current job requires.

Rotary Tattoo Machines

Rotary machines have been around since the late 1800’s (the prototype was created by none other than Thomas Edison, who was trying to make an engraving machine). Samuel O’Reilly revised the design, adding a number of needles that allowed the tattoo artist to rapidly puncture and ink the skin. While rotary tattoo machines are also powered using electromagnetic technology, a wheel powers the motion of the needles.

While they look bad-ass and in the hands of a skilled artist and can help create some gorgeous tattoos, they also can be larger and a bit heavier than electromagnetic machines.  Addition they are significantly less efficient. On the other hand, there’s less vibration, making them a bit easier on an artist’s hands, and a lot less noise, making for a more comfortable session for the customer.

Think carefully when purchasing tattoo machines because you really get what you pay for!