Tattoo Machines

In tattooing, the tattoo machine is the device used to insert ink into the skin by puncturing it with a needle. There are various types of tattoo machines, including rotary tattoo machines, coil tattoo machines, and wireless tattoo pens. Tattoo machines come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all share one common purpose: to inject ink into the skin. At Element Tattoo Supply, we offer a variety of tattoo machines for you to choose from. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of machines, and start shopping online today.

Coil Tattoo Machines

Coil tattoo machines are the most common type of machine used by tattoo artists. They consist of a central coil that wraps around an iron core, and this design creates a magnetic field. The needles are attached to the end of the coils, and when the tattoo artist presses down on the foot pedal, the coils move and vibrate, causing the needles to puncture the skin and deposit ink. Coil tattoo machines are available in a variety of sizes, from mini to full-size, and can be used for both lining and shading.

Types of Coil Machines

There are two types of coil tattoo machines: liners and shaders. Liner machines are designed for tattooing the outlines of a tattoo, and they have a shorter stroke than shaders. Shader machines, on the other hand, are designed for tattooing the background or "filling in" of a tattoo, and they have a longer stroke. Both types of machines can be used for both lining and shading, but it's important to choose the right machine for the tattoo you're doing.

Best Applications for Coil Tattoo Machines

Coil tattoo machines are best suited for tattooing small to medium-sized tattoos. They're also a good choice for tattoo artists who are just starting out, as they're relatively easy to use. If you're looking for a versatile machine that can be used for both lining and shading, a coil tattoo machine is a good option.

Rotary Tattoo Machines

Rotary tattoo machines are the second most popular type of machine used by tattoo artists. They work similarly to coil tattoo machines, but instead of coils, they have a motor that turns a spring-loaded cam. The needles are attached to the end of the cams, and when the tattoo artist presses down on the foot pedal, the cams rotate and tattoo the skin. Rotary tattoo machines are available in a variety of sizes and can be used for both lining and shading.

Types of Rotary Tattoo Machines

Like coil tattoo machines, rotary tattoo machines have different types of machines: direct drive, slider, and commutatorless. Direct drive tattoo machines have the motor directly connected to the tattoo machine, making them more powerful and tattoo faster. Slider tattoo machines have a slider that moves up and down, which helps reduce vibration. Commutatorless tattoo machines don't have a commutator, which helps reduce friction and makes the machine run quieter.

Best Applications for Rotary Machines

Rotary tattoo machines are best suited for tattooing medium to large tattoos. They're also a good choice for tattoo artists who have been tattooing for a while and are looking for a machine that can handle more intricate designs. If you're looking for a machine that is powerful and can tattoo quickly, a rotary tattoo machine is a good option.

Wireless Tattoo Pens

Wireless tattoo pens are the newest type of tattoo machine on the market. They work similarly to rotary tattoo machines, but they're smaller and lighter, making them easier to maneuver. Wireless tattoo pens also have a wireless receiver that allows the tattoo artist to move around freely while tattooing.

Types of Wireless Tattoo Pens

There are two types of wireless tattoo pens: rotary and linear. Rotary tattoo pens have a motor that turns a spring-loaded cam, and the needles are attached to the end of the cams. Linear tattoo pens have a motor that moves the needle up and down, and they're best suited for tattooing small tattoos.

Best Applications for Wireless Tattoo Pens

Wireless tattoo pens are best suited for tattooing small tattoos. They're also a good choice for tattoo artists who are looking for a machine that is easy to maneuver and tattoo with. If you're looking for a machine that is small and light, a wireless tattoo pen is a good option.

Picking the Right Tattoo Machine

When choosing a tattoo machine, it's important to consider the tattoo you're going to be doing. Small tattoos are best suited for tattoo machines that have a shorter stroke, like coil tattoo machines. Medium to large tattoos are best suited for tattoo machines that have a longer stroke, like rotary tattoo machines. If you're looking for a versatile machine that can be used for both lining and shading, tattoo machines that have a variable stroke length are a good option.

Tattoo Machine Maintenance

Once you've chosen the right tattoo machine for your needs, it's important to keep it clean and well-maintained. Tattoo machines should be cleaned after every use, and all of the tattoo machine parts should be inspected regularly. Tattoo needles should be replaced after every tattoo, and tattoo tips should be replaced every few tattoos. Keeping your tattoo machine clean and well-maintained will help ensure that it lasts for years to come.

No matter what kind of tattoo machine you choose, you can find it here at Element Tattoo Supply. We carry tattoo machines from all of the top brands, and we're sure to have the perfect machine for your needs. Browse our selection of tattoo machines today and order online today!