PMU Tattoo Needle Guide
As a new artist we know it can be over whelming when it comes to shopping for supplies. We’ve simplified the important need to know tattoo needles that are out there and what is each tailored for.
What types of Needles are available to artist:
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Needles on bar is traditional body art tattoo needle standard that are hooked on to a bar
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Needle Cartridge
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Microlading Needle
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Universal Needles Cartridges ( commonly used )
Tattoo Needle Components and how to read them
Diameter
Needle taper
Needle count
Needle configuration
Diameter: is the measurement of the needles thickness also known as gauge. This is measured by millimeters. This will define how the ink flows and deposits. The thinner the needle the more fine the pigment deposits and can more trauma it can cause.
0.25mm ( #08)
0.30mm ( #10)
0.35mm (#12)
Needle Count: is number of needles are grouped.
Needle Configurations and groups:
( RL) Round liner
A round liner needle is a type of needle used in tattooing to create precise outlines. It's called "round" because it's shaped like a circle. The needle has a sharp point and is used by tattoo artists to draw thin lines and fine details in a tattoo design. So, if an artist wants to outline a shape or create intricate lines, they would use a round liner needle because it gives them control and precision.
( RS )Round shader
A round shader needle is a tool used by tattoo artists to fill in areas of a design with color. It's called "round" because it's shaped like a circle. Unlike a round liner needle, which is used for making precise outlines, a round shader needle is used for shading and coloring. It has a rounded tip that helps deposit ink evenly, creating smooth gradients of color. So, when an artist wants to add color to a tattoo or shade in an area, they use a round shader needle to do it smoothly and evenly.
( M) Magnum
A magnum needle is a type of needle used in tattooing to fill in larger areas with color. It's called "magnum" because it's wider than a round needle and has more needles grouped together. This wider shape allows it to cover more surface area with each pass, making it efficient for shading and coloring large parts of a tattoo design. So, when an artist wants to fill in a bigger area with color or create smooth shading, they use a magnum needle because it covers more ground quickly.
Pros:
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Efficient coverage for shading and coloring larger areas
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Smooth gradients and consistent results
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Reduced trauma to the skin
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Versatile in configurations and sizes
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Provide uniform fills and gradients
Cons:
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Less precise than single needles for intricate detailing
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May deposit more ink, leading to potential over-saturation or bleeding
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Requires practice and skill to use effectively
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Limited control in tight or intricate areas
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Complexity in finding the right configuration for desired shading effects
(F) Flat
Flat needles, also known as flat shaders, are used in tattooing for shading and coloring larger areas of a design. With their rectangular shape, they efficiently fill in solid areas and create smooth shading effects, making them ideal for adding depth and dimension to tattoos.
