Tattoo Needle Faqs: Make The Right Choice For The Best Body Art

By Author: Shailesh Gajjar
Total Articles: 169
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Tattoo methods have evolved over the years. The tattoo machines of today are more automated than their earlier versions. However, one thing remains the same: The process of choosing tattoo needles to suit the preferences of a tattoo artist. You will have to understand the needs of the tattoo design and then make the decision. To make the task simpler, let us find answers to common questions related to tattoo needles.

What is Tattoo Needle Count/Codes?

You can identify tattoo needles with their codes or counts. Each code has a tattoo needle diameter, the needle count, and grouping format in it. At the beginning of the product name, there is the diameter of the needle. The diameter is of importance to choose as it defines the ink flow. The smaller the diameter, the slower will be the ink flow. Tattoo needles with smaller diameter are ideal for line work. The next two digits in the code refer to the number of tattoo needles. And, the last two letters are related to needle grouping.

For example, if the tattoo needle code is 1207RL, it means the tattoo needle diameter is a standard #12 size or 0.35mm. The tattoo ...
... needles are in a group of 7, and they are in round liner grouping style.

Now, the traditional method of tattoo needle codes does not provide all the information in detail. For example, 1207RL does not tell anything about the taper and texture of the tattoo needles. So, it becomes essential to buy from a tattoo equipment seller who offers detailed information in addition to tattoo needle codes.

What is the Importance of the Diameter of the Tattoo Needle?

When it comes to tattoo needle diameter, the higher the number on the scale, the heavier the ink flow. If you are looking for a more controlled ink flow, you should opt for a thinner diameter. You can identify the diameter of tattoo needles with the help of the gauge number. The higher the gauge number, the larger will be the diameter of the tattoo needles.

Different tattoo needle manufacturers have unique codes. However, the most common options include:

1. #8 gauge (0.25mm Diameter): Often, bugpin tattoo needles have tighter grouping with #8-gauge size. Such needle types are ideal for detailing.

2. #10 Gauge (0.30mm Diameter): Perfect for steady ink flow required for lining. The #10-gauge is popular among tattoo artists.

3. #12 Gauge (0.35mm Diameter): Tattoo professionals called #12-gauge "standard" tattoo needles. You can use them for a majority of tattoo work including bold lines and shading.

4. There are many other choices for tattoo needles, for example, #6 or 0.20mm, #14 or 0.40mm, and #16 or 0.45mm for various uses.

How many Types of Needle Groupings are available?

The configurations form different types of needle choices. Let's look into each one:

1. RL – Round Liner and RS – Round Shader

The round liners are grouped in a tight round formation around the bar. These types of needles are used for lining. You can vary the thickness of the lines by choosing the different sizes of the needle. You can use round liner tattoo needles for lining, dot work, geometric designs, and lettering.

On the other hand, the round shader tattoo needles are grouped in a loose round formation. RS tattoo needles are ideal for shading.

2. FL - Flat Liner and FS - Flat Shader

Flat tattoo needles are arranged in a straight line on the bar. You can use them for creating dark lines. The larger flat needles are perfect for coloring and shading larger areas. Flat tattoo needles come in two types: FL (Flat Liner) and FS (Flat Shader).

3. Magnum Tattoo Needles

Tattoo artists often use magnum tattoo needles for shading large areas of the skin.

M1: Also, called weaved magnum tattoo needles, they are attached to the bar but on the alternating sides hence covering more area. You can use them for blending, shading, and coloring the tattoo.

M2: Just as the name suggests, stacked magnum tattoo needles are tightly stacked together for shading and coloring large areas.

RM: The arrangement of Round Magnum (RM) or Magnum Curved (MC) tattoo needles is in such a way that their tips arch at the center giving a more consistent line and curved arch. You can use them for shading and coloring large areas with less impact on the skin. For example, Legend Premium Curved Magnum tattoo needles are available in different needle groupings to help artists create the best artwork.

4. Bugpin Tattoo Needles

If you want to create smooth gradients, use bugpin tattoo needles. Bugpin tattoo needles have tighter grouping for effective lining and shading purposes. Bugpin needles can be smooth or textured. The smooth bugpin needles are polished and less painful. You can choose between many bugpin needle choices such as Legend Premium Bugpin Curve Magnum needles, Legend Premium Bugpin Round Shader, Legend Premium Bugpin Round Liner, etc.

What Things to keep in mind while choosing Tattoo Needle Taper?

The length of the needle-point is known as the taper. The shorter the length, the more ink flows in the skin. Whereas the longer the length, the slower the ink flow. If you want to pack color in a tattoo design, use the smaller taper size. When you want to do a realistic tattoo with great detailing, long taper tattoo needles work the best.

How to choose the Perfect Tattoo Needle Size?

Now that you know about the needle code, diameter, grouping, and taper, all that is left is to make the purchase. Understand your needs and list your requirements. Once you are sure of your preferences, choose a reliable tattoo equipment supplier to buy premium-quality tattoo needles.

Happy shopping!

Do you want to buy tattoo needles in bulk? Tattoo professionals choose online suppliers of tattoo equipment to enjoy bulk order discounts! Whether it is tattoo needle cartridges or loose tattoo needles, shop at wholesale prices to save money.

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