Meta: Find out the factors that decide how many needles are in a tattoo gun. Learn to identify different types of tattoo needles available in the market.

A tattoo gun is a device that tattoos the skin by puncturing it with needles. You may not realize it, but a tattoo gun has a large number of needles. Some can contain up to 18 needles, while others only have five or six. The number of needles you need will be determined by the size and complexity of your design. Interesting right?

Every tattoo is a work of art

If you want to find out more on “how many needles are in a tattoo gun”, then we have the answer right here.

How Many Needles Are In A Tattoo Gun?

Tattoo artists have access to a wide range of needles, the number of which varies depending on the task at hand. An average set can include as little as 15 items or as many as 20. However, determine how many elements influence this choice, such as type/grouping size, intended impact, and so on.

There are many small needles in a single tattoo gun

So, artists should experience and find out the suitable number for their purpose. It might take some time, but we assure you the outcome is out of this world.

What Factors Decide How Many Needles Are In A Tattoo Gun

Some individuals are confused by the needle code. Each needle’s code comprises numerous distinct characteristics, including diameter and count, but most importantly, which group it belongs to. There are many methods to make use of this knowledge and make sure there are no mixups.

Needle Grouping

Knowing the code for grouping tattoos is crucial since it may help you determine what size needle is appropriate for each use. Assume our tattoo has an “808RL” at the end, which indicates that these needles are in group #80-8- Round-Liner Needles. So, RL is the initial for Round-Liner.

Choosing the right needles is important

So now you know that there is a reason behind every time you see a tattoo needle. With 1040 Round liners, for example, are designed for lining work and come in groups of four #10 needles at a time, allowing them to readily enter the skin without much resistance or risk of puncturing other layers underneath.

With the variety of needles available on the market today, even inexperienced users may discover just what they want. Some of the most common one are:

Tattoo Needle Diameters

Tattoo needles are available in various sizes, so manufacturers have the first two numbers referring to their total diameter. This way, there will be no confusing situations that happen to tattoo artists. A 1004RL, for example, has a #10 or 0.01-inch size. The diameter of the needle will expand as the first two digits rise.

Tattoo needles come in many sizes

One thing to keep regarding needles is that their diameter influences how much ink passes through them. This implies that you’ll have greater control over your project if you use a finer point (#10) rather than a larger, sturdier point with a higher number, such as #12 or #13.

Tattoo Needle Count

The needle code’s following two numbers represent the number of needles in the grouping. There are four #10-diameter needles bundled in 1004RL. The number of needles in a tattoo gun is proportional to the tattoo needle sizes.

Magnum

With so many various needle sizes to choose from, it’s easy to become lost. So, we’re here to explain each size to you.

A magnum is available in three sizes: small (5), medium (7-9), and large (11-17).

Round Shaders

It’s interesting to shade using a round shader since the lines may be thick and powerful. The ideal number for this type of needle is small (1-5); large (7 to 21).

These provide gorgeous shading, making your artwork stand out from the crowd!

Tights

These tattoo needles are tightly packed in a circular pattern and are ideal for outlining a design with a clean and elegant appearance. These tattoos may be big and dramatic, which is exactly what you want! Normally, there are 9 tiny needles in a single pair of tights.

Flats

Flats are the artistic backbone of any tattoo. They are carefully arranged in a row, called flats, because they are straight or flat. It usually has the numbers seven and eleven, and you may use it for everything from shading to blending to whips.

What Are the Types of Tattoo Needles?

World of tattoo needles is too wide, but you can distinct them as the groups below: 

Round Tattoo Needles

Round needles are fantastic for creative work since they allow you to create elaborate and detailed designs. The circular needle’s tiny size allows it to fit into tight places on intricate designs!

Lining needles

Round Needles can be liners (near together), which are typically used by technicians who regularly draw tiny lines. Loose rounds will produce thicker outlines, which is ideal if you want some color fill but don’t want too much detail, ARTISTICALLY speaking.

Flat Tattoo Needles

Flat needles are an absolute must for anyone who enjoys the appearance and feel of tattoos. They’re gentler on the skin than their spherical counterparts, so you can go back in just one pass to darken those clean lines or fill up an entire region with vivid colors!

 Flatliners have long been popular with strokes because they let more ink flow from your cartridge. On the market, typical flat needles are sometimes branded FL or FS.

Magnum Tattoo Needles

This needle stands for: mag, M1, M1C, M2 – These are straight or curved needles with one or two rows. A double-stacked magnum is commonly used to paint over a wide area where just a single color is necessary. This is always a good option. Artists will present colors neatly with a standard magnum, and it will cause much less damage than other kinds of needles.

Here are some of the most common types of magnum needles:

Final Thoughts

So, How many needles are in a tattoo gun?

The number is determined by the artist’s preferences and the type of design they are creating. If you’re considering getting your first or next tattoo and want to know how many needles there will be for your new ink, ask about it before you schedule an appointment with a shop near you!

See Also: How to become a tattoo artist