What angle should you hold a tattoo machine?

Author: Prof. Andreanne Skiles MD  |  Last update: Monday, November 17, 2025

Learn how to improve your tattoo lining technique by adjusting the angle of your machine. Keep it at a 90-degree angle for cleaner lines and less skin damage.

What angle is best for tattooing?

so that all the needles enter the skin at the same time. I would say my favorite angle, and I only use elevens and fourteens, is about 75 to 85 degrees. It's also great to test this out on fake skins. because you'll be able to tell which lines.

What degree is best for tattooing?

Some pursue bachelor of fine arts degrees where they learn to perfect their craft, focusing on drawing and related areas. Because tattoos are permanent, low-quality work can be detrimental to a tattoo artist's career.

What voltage should you tattoo at?

Here is a basic voltage range chart to guide you: Lining: 7.5 - 9V. Shading: 6 - 8V. Color Packing: 7 - 9V.

What speed is best for tattooing?

The Right Rhythm for Line Work: Linework is the foundation of most tattoos, demanding precision and consistency. For this task, a higher speed is typically employed-ranging from 7.5 to 8.5 volts, depending on the machine and power supply.

How To Hold Your Tattoo Machine The RIGHT Way | Tattooing For Beginners

How much pressure do I use when tattooing?

It makes much more sense to start at one on the scale and gradually build from there adding slight increments of pressure until you find the optimal amount that puts shade into the skin, if you apply too much pressure, it will overwork the skin in a very short space of time and make your shade look patchy and red.

How deep should the needle be on a tattoo machine?

Where Should the Tattoo Needle Go? Again, you want your needles to reach the dermis and no farther. This usually means the needle should penetrate about 1–2mm (usually a bit closer to 2) or around 1/16th of an inch into the skin.

How to hold a tattoo machine while tattooing?

Hold Your Machine at the Correct Angle

We recommend holding your machine between a 65-85° angle. If you tattoo at too small of an angle, you could snag the skin. However, you don't want to be at a perfect 90° angle because the tiny spaces between the dots will make your lines look lighter.

What is the best setting for a tattoo machine?

A higher speed ensures the needle enters and exits the skin swiftly, avoiding snagging or dragging that can make lines wobble. Voltage for Lines: A general guideline for linework is to set your machine between 7.5 to 8.5 volts, depending on your machine type and personal touch.

What stroke for lining tattoo?

stroke Of 4.0+mm

The 4.0mm+ stroke is typically only used for lining, as it packs in ink with hard-hitting strokes.

What is the best wattage for tattooing?

When it comes to linework, using the right tattoo voltage for lining and shading is important in achieving clean, crisp lines that don't blow out or look fuzzy. For that, you'll typically use higher voltage than for shading. Recommended voltage: 7-10 volts for coil machines, 6-8 volts for rotary machines.

How far should my tattoo needle stick out?

over the length that you would penetrate the skin. I like to hang my needle around 2.5 to 3 millimeters. This way, when you're tattooing, you can work off the tip of the needle, which is going to increase your accuracy. and visibility while tattooing.

Who is the highest paid tattoo artist in the US?

Scott Campbell

Scott is one of the highest-paid Tattoo Artists in the world, with a net worth of around $10 million. He has tattooed many famous celebrities, including Robert Downey Jr., Sting, and Penelope Cruz. Campbell's tattoo style is known for its intricate designs and attention to detail.

Does tattooing pay good?

$43,500 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $80,000 is the 75th percentile.

Is tattooing a skill?

Tattoo artist hard skills

It entails drawing, shading, colouring skills, and understanding human anatomy. As a tattoo artist, your ability to draw and bring your creations to life on the skin is an asset.

Do you put Vaseline on skin while tattooing?

Basic Lubrication: Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is commonly used as a lubricant during tattoo sessions. It provides a basic level of lubrication, allowing the tattoo needle to glide smoothly over the skin and reducing friction.

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