Tattoos are often viewed as a modern-day fad, but they have really been around since ancient times. The type of machine used to apply them, however, has evolved over time. The term "tattoo gun" can be intimidating, especially to first-time tattoo clients. The power and aim of a tattoo gun is controlled by the artist during ink application. The design of a tattoo gun is not complex, however; its few components are cleaned between each use.
History
The first tattoo gun was invented in the 1800s. Up until this time, early tattoos were engraved in the skin using sharp blades and, sometimes, animal bones. According to Tattoo Archive website, Samuel O'Reilly filed a patent for the first official tattoo machine in 1891. It was built upon an early design from Thomas Edison. Tattoo guns have continued to evolve since the 19th century, with the most modern patent created in 1979 by Carol Nightingale.
Components
A tattoo gun, also called a tattoo machine, has three primary components, as reported by the Tattoo Gallery website. The base of the machine resembles the handle of a small hand gun. It has a trigger which helps the tattoo artist control the ink dispersal. The base also contains two coils which help connect needles to the spring located at the top of the gun. The last and perhaps most important part of the gun is the sanitary tube, which holds together the needles and the tattoo ink. The needles move up and down within the sanitary tube.
Types
The Tattoo Info website explains that there are two different types of tattoo guns--a shader and a liner. A liner is used to outline the tattoo design before color application. This type of gun uses one to 10 small needles, dipped in black ink. A liner can also be used to fill in small areas of the tattoo. A shader gun uses larger needles that are angled. It is used to apply color to large areas of skin within the outlined tattoo. Also, according to the Tattoo Info website, shaders require more power and are thus equipped with larger coils.
Sanitation
When a tattoo artist uses a tattoo gun, he may use the same needles on one person at a time. Shader gun needles are often dipped in water between inks, similar to color changes when painting or using water colors. However, once the tattoo artist has completed a design, all used needles and sanitary tubes are cleaned before they are used again. Excess ink and blood is sometimes sucked up into the sanitary tube upon application.
Considerations
Different types of shaders and liners are on the market; most vary in size. According to the Tattoo Gallery website, the basic functions of a tattoo gun do not change based on size. The size of a tattoo gun you may use depends on what you are most comfortable with. When using a tattoo gun, do not press too hard as you can damage a person's skin, causing an infection or even permanent indentations. Tattoo needles should be used like paint brushes, but with more technicalities, explains the Tattoo Info website.
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