Tattoo Machines

Would you be surprised to learn that tattoo machines are the creation of Thomas Edison? The item started out as an autographic printer, but an enterprising fellow named Sam O'Reilly figured out the machine could be modified to deliver ink into skin, and the tattoo machine was born.

What are Tattoo Machines?

Tattoo machines, or guns as some people still refer to them, are the devices used to create the modern day tattoo anywhere on a person's body. They are fast and efficient, offer a significant reduction in the amount of pain experienced by the recipient, and are certainly a far cry from the ancient method of repeatedly poking the skin with sticks to create a design.

How Do They Work?

The way tattoo machines work can actually be compared to the way a sewing machine works, but it really looks more like a dentist's drill.

Needles

The machine has a bar which holds the tattoo needle that delivers the ink into the skin with a series of small pokes or penetrations. The bar is operated by electromagnetic coils that move the needle up and down in rapid, yet precise movements. It's possible to control the needle penetration depth to any degree the artist chooses, and the result is a very even design that can even seem three dimensional, if that is the effect the artist is striving to create.

Inks

The pigment inks are held separately in small cups called ink caps and are fed to the machine through connecting tubing. The needle can be flushed with sterilized water when changing ink colors.

Where to Purchase

Tattoo machines are readily available for purchase through many tattoo supply companies and tattoo magazines. Perhaps the easiest way to buy one is online, where you can pay immediately, and your item is shipped within 48 hours. Even eBay has tat machines for sale, but with safety being a major concern, perhaps this is not the best place to buy one. You want to make sure you get a warranty and are able to return your machine if it doesn't work as promised.

While you can find tattoo machines for as low as $50.00 at some suppliers, better models run closer to $200.00. Remember, you get what you pay for, and as long as you're making an investment, you might as well buy the best model you can. It will pay for itself in a short time by helping you create high quality tats that will enhance your reputation as an artist and bring new and repeat customers to your shop.

Sterilization is a Must

Disease and bacteria are rampant and invisible. That is why it is vital to only use needles, tubing, gloves, and inks once per person. Throw these items away when you finish each client and use an autoclave to sterilize the rest of your tattoo equipment. And yes, if you own a tattoo machine, then you should also own an autoclave. Autoclaves provide heat disinfection through the use of steam and pressure to kill germs and bacteria in even the smallest areas of your equipment that you couldn't possibly reach yourself. Remember, someone's life is in your hands with every tattoo you give.

Warning

No one but a professional tattoo artist has any business operating a tattoo machine. Just because they are for sale to the general public doesn't mean everyone who's into tattoos should have one. You can seriously injure someone or infect them with staph, hepatitis or HIV with one of these machines if you haven't been properly trained to use it, so leave it to the professionals. If you're serious about becoming a real tattoo professional, speak to the manager at one of your local tattoo shops to find out the best way to achieve your dream.

External Links

• Tattoo depot.com is a tattoo equipment supplier.
• Ink craft.biz is a tattoo kits supplier.

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