Whether you are starting your tattooing business or simply looking for an upgrade, the equipment that you are using will have a big impact on your potential success levels. There is a lot of equipment that you will need to run a successful tattoo studio, but to ensure you are getting the highest return on your investment, you will need to be buying the right tools. This guide is here to help you better understand what equipment you will need and how to buy the right tools.
1. A Tattooing Machine
A tattooing machine, or as it is more simply known, a tattooing gun, is an essential piece of equipment every tattoo studio needs. The two most common forms of tattoo gun are the coil and rotary machine. Each gun has its own benefits. For example, the coil is great for creating larger sections of shading and making smooth lines, whereas the rotary machine is much more gentle and easier to use. Generally, shops choose to use both tattooing machines for different purposes.
2. Tips and Grips
Once you have purchased a tattooing machine, you will then need to buy tips and grips. These are the attachments that prevent the tattooing machine from slipping when it is being used. You should opt for reusable, stainless steel grips to make your studio more sustainable and cleaner.
3. Needles
Tattoo needles are another essential piece of equipment that you will need. Needles come in five basic categories, round, flat, turbo, magnum, and shader. There are also special models such as the texture needle and the cartridge needle. All needles come in different sizes, which serve different purposes. To be able to fulfill a client’s wishes, you will need to have a variety of needle types and sizes.
4. Tattoo Inks
You will need to have all of the common ink colours in your studio to ensure you are able to complete a client’s desired designs. You should also consider stocking vegan inks as it is becoming an increasingly popular preference.
5. Cleaning Equipment
Cleaning equipment is vital for ensuring that you are operating your tattoo studio safely and within the confines of the law. Aside from having standard cleaning equipment, you should also consider purchasing autoclaves and ultrasonics to ensure your equipment is kept sterile.
6. The Chair
The chair is another must-have piece of equipment for any tattoo studio. You should look for a new generation chair that is adjustable, is made of memory foam for comfort, and is easy to clean. As clients can be sitting in a chair for hours at a time, comfort and support are very important.
7. A Magnifying Lamp
A magnifying lamp is an important piece of equipment for ensuring you are able to create the very best finished product with high-quality details. You can’t be without one of these.
8. Stencil Products
Even if you don’t typically use a stencil for all of your designs, it can be a very useful piece of equipment to have at hand. Stenciling can help you to ensure that you are able to create tattoos quickly and avoid any potential errors on complicated designs.
