How Many Needles Are in a Tattoo Gun: Explained

If you’re a tattoo artist or aspiring to become one, there’s a fundamental aspect of this intricate art that you should grasp from the outset. We are talking about understanding how many needles are in a tattoo gun and how to operate it. Tattooing isn’t merely akin to drawing with an ordinary pen; it’s a highly specialized craft. 

These needles must delicately puncture the skin at a remarkable rate, ranging from 50 to 3000 times per minute. This is why the core of any tattoo machine lies in its needles. In the world of tattooing, numerous types of these specialized tattoo needles exist, each designed for a specific purpose. If you’re eager to delve into the intricacies of this art, let’s first unravel how many needles are in a tattoo gun. 

How Many Needles Does a Tattoo Gun Have?

You might be a bit disheartened if you’re seeking a straightforward, one-size-fits-all answer to how many needles are in a tattoo gun. Tattoo machines aren’t as simplistic as having a fixed number of needles. Instead, the number of needles used in a tattoo gun can vary significantly based on factors specific to each tattooing situation.

The number of needles in a tattoo gun depends on various critical factors, including:

1. Needle Grouping

Tattoo needles are often grouped in different configurations. The choice of needle grouping depends on the tattoo artist’s preferences and the type of tattoo they are creating. Common groupings include:

• Single needles.
• Multiple needles in a row.
• Various arrangements for specific purposes.

2. Desired Effect

The tattoo’s artistic vision and desired effect play a crucial role in determining the number of needles. For instance, fine-line tattoos may require a single needle or a small grouping, while shading or coloring may demand larger groupings or different needle configurations.

3. Intended Purpose

The purpose of the tattoo also influences the needle choice. Tattoos for outlining, shading, or coloring will have different needle requirements. Tattoo artists select the needles that best suit their intended technique and style.

4. Needle Codes and Diameters 

Needles for tattoo machines come in various codes and diameters, each designed for specific applications. These codes indicate the needle’s size, configuration, and intended use. Artists carefully choose the appropriate needles based on their execution plans.

Types of Tattoo Needles and Uses

Tattoo needles come in a myriad of types, each meticulously designed to serve a specific purpose. Let’s explore the types of tattoo needles and how many needles are in a tattoo gun.

Round Liner Needle (RL)

The Round Liner needle is the go-to choice for tattoo artists seeking extra precision and intricate lining work. With a needle code of RL, the number preceding indicates the number of needles in the grouping. For instance, 9RL signifies a needle grouping of nine. Tattoo artists often employ Round Liners for tasks like dot work, precise geometric tattoos, tribal or Samoan designs, Japanese motifs, and lettering. 

Round Shader Needle (RS)

Similar in design to the Round Liner needle, the Round Shader stands out due to the spacing between the needles within the grouping. This spacing variation is significant because it enables tattoo artists to perform basic shading and coloring, some line work, geometric designs, and various Japanese tattoo styles. This allows them to hold more ink and produce a softer, more blended effect.

Magnum Shader Needle (M)

When it comes to shading and color packing, the Magnum Shader needle takes center stage. Known for its ink-holding capacity, it excels in rendering color realism in tattoos. This needle type finds its niche in traditional tattooing, shading, and coloring work. Tattoo artists appreciate the Magnum Shader’s ability to convey depth and vibrancy in their creations.

Curved Magnum Shader Needle (CM)

It is a shading needle for tattoo guns because it’s best for shading tasks of all kinds. Its slight arc adds to its comfort and provides skin protection during tattooing. These needles cluster closely together, typically numbering between 7 and 11 in a grouping, ensuring optimal results. Tattoo artists rely on Curved Magnum Shaders for a wide range of tattoo styles, from color packing to traditional Japanese designs, thanks to their adaptability and precision.

Flat Shader Needle (F)

Crafting straight, precise lines is the forte of the Flat Shader needle. It delivers clean and transparent color results, with each pass darkening the lines. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for black-and-white work, intricate line art, color realism, shading, and diverse tattoo designs. Tattoo artists appreciate its consistency and crispness.

Double Stack Magnum Shader Needle (DMS)

The Double Stack Magnum Shader needle steps up to the plate for the most intricate and detailed work. Its densely packed pins ensure precision in color packing. Tattoo artists turn to this needle type when aiming for realism in their tattoos and when working on traditional, and neo-traditional designs. The Double Stack Magnum Shader needle empowers artists to achieve intricate details and rich color saturation.

Bugpin Needles (BP)

Bugpin needles are the choice when it’s all about delicacy. With typically 1-3 needles in a grouping and 1 being the most frequent configuration, these needles are used for crafting very fine lines and delicate designs. Tattoo artists appreciate bugpin needles for their ability to create detailed work with exceptional finesse.

Stack Needles (ST)

Stack needles are the heavy lifters of the tattooing world, consisting of two or more needles stacked together. Tattoo artists use stack tattoo needles for thick lines and achieve more solid color fills. These needles are prized for their ability to deliver bold and impactful tattoo designs.

What are Tattoo Needle Codes?

Needle codes provide essential information about tattoo needles’ type, configuration, and function. They are a shorthand way of conveying crucial details to ensure that the chosen needle aligns perfectly with the intended design and technique. Here is the table explaining it in a better way.

Tattoo Needle Sizes 

Tattoo needles come in different sizes to accommodate various artistic needs. Here are some common tattoo needle sizes and their typical applications:

• 0.18mm – 0.25mm (3RL, 5RL): These fine needles are ideal for creating fine lines, and delicate designs, making them perfect for portrait work and small tattoos.
• 0.30mm – 0.35mm (7RL, 9RL): Medium-sized needles strike a balance between fine lines and bolder outlines. They exhibit versatility and are appropriate for a wide range of tattoo styles.
• 0.40mm – 0.50mm (13RL, 15RL): Larger-diameter needles are chosen for bold outlines and filling in larger areas with color. They excel in creating strong, defined lines.
• 0.60mm – 0.80mm (Magnums): Magnum needles, with their larger diameters, are primarily used for shading and color packing. They deliver smooth gradients and vibrant colors. And it is the biggest tattoo needle size.

How Much is a Tattoo Needle?

After delving into the intricacies of how many needles are in a tattoo gun and exploring the difference in tattoo needle types, it’s natural to wonder about the cost of these essential tools. Tattoo needles are typically sold individually or in packs, and the price can range from a few cents to a few dollars per needle.

Here are some key factors that influence the cost of tattoo needles:

• Needle Type
• Brand and Quality
• Material
• Packaging
• Supplier
• Size and Configuration

As a rough estimate, basic tattoo needles, such as round liners or round shaders, can range from $0.25 to $1 or more per needle when purchased individually. Bulk packs of standard needles may cost anywhere from $5 to $20 or more, but it depends on the quantity and brand.

Final Thoughts

Tattoo needles are the heartbeat of the tattoo machine, responsible for crafting captivating artistry that adorns our bodies. Whether you’re starting a journey as a tattoo artist or simply contemplating getting a tattoo, understanding the dynamics of how many needles are in a tattoo gun is paramount. This knowledge empowers you to articulate your artistic preferences clearly. 

It enables you to communicate with your chosen artist about the depth, precision, and shading you desire in your tattoo, all achieved through carefully selecting the right needle. These needles, with their variety in type, size, and configuration, are the brushstrokes that bring your unique vision to life in the world of ink and creativity.