Its very rare when ppl actually make a video about so specific but extremely important at the same time in tattooing.. thank you very much ;) Like I never knew how to put the needle in .. a lot of times I had it upside down.. :D
ScrewedUpPapi lol my 4 year old daughter was watching this video with me and she said” mommy he said close your eyes 👀 “ she closed her eyes then I closed mine and listened lol this video was very helpful though I must say!
I saved this video awhile back because i knew this would be an excellent reference for when it was go time for me. -my uncle called my number and i watched this vid before and when tuning my liner and it was clutch. Not only did i get into a good lining rhythum my auntie that i tattooed smiled and is happy so far with our first ink session. -thank you bro you helped me stay focused and keep it clean and crispy (it was a brand new machine too). 🤙🤙🤙🤙 Greeting's from the island of Guam 🇬🇺 🇺🇲 .
I buggered around with lower voltages until I got to the magic 8. Leaves good crisp clean lines. 7 was just too soft, 7 or lower would have been good for softer work. But 8 works pretty great.
Thank you sir! I watched 5 videos today and you made more sense with the voltage thing so far. The ear thing was something I was dependent upon and you are the first person I heard reference it. Much appreciated.
He really takes the time to put it in laymen terms so you can understand and yes he keeps his voice calm and even makes for a relaxing listen thanks for such a good video..
Dude your videos are so helpful. You’d be amazed how many artist I worked under don’t know anything about machines and say that. They just set up and go. When I would ask they wouldn’t know. Simple things too.
Dude, solid information, just the right amount of detail and explanation 👍🏽👍🏽to you. This is a crucial part of the process and I remember what it was like first starting out. It can be intimidating at first. So keep up the great work and continue spilling solid information
I love this video to help fall asleep every night. his method is great tho, but don't be afraid to turn up the voltage, depending on your machine build it could vary, do what he shows you with the finger, if it stops its too low, you have to hear the machine sound change when entering skin, that's what your looking for, if you put your finger on the bar and there is no sound change, it's too high. good luck
Hey man,great vid. I have a question,when I’m doing line work,or even shading,my lines I use about 7.5-8.5 volts,using a dragon hawk rotary machine. Now when doing line work,why is the needle sometimes,get stuck in the skin as I’m laying a line? Is it because the machine is a china-cheaper machine? Idk,but it is driving me crazy,please if u can do a video on it,that would be AWESOME !
You’re probably pushing too deep. Needles tend to get caught if you’re going too deep and too fast. Try and pull back your needle a couple of mm or work on your depth control, that should help you out a lot
Rotary is slower than coils i use to use a hummingbird rotary and i move very slow which gives me a clean line as for coils will always be faster than rotary
Also, a rotary machine doesn't always stop with the needles withdrawn when you cut the power! Depending on where in the rotation it is, the needle can be full out when you lift off, thereby getting caught. That is the main disadvantage of rotaries, and something that no-one talks about! They're ok for shading- with a bigger bundle of needles, but for single needle, or a 3 round liner, they're no good. Go coil- your lines will be finer, and more controlled.
Cool I’m sure you made videos on this topic before but I’m having trouble mining with the new rotary machine with needle cartridges. Is that common or is there a way to have the needle stay in place?
Good looking with this I personally have an issue with setting the coil machines.. so I got accustomed to rotary. And I like your break down. With the voltage this has been the most informative video for tattoos I have watched. Thanks for the lesson
@@TattooUniversity also I have another question I can't seem to find an answer to. When lining is it better have the machine hit harder or softer with the needle? and the same question for shading.
dude I watched a lot of your videos you helped me a lot just did my first tattoo on my leg came out incredible I applied everything I learned from you just want to say thank you for helping me along my journey. keep up the good work
ah man you have all the answers im after thank you so much , I have been running jack hammers and this info is so damn hard to find with everyone using pens now ... your a legend
This answer to that is a long and complicated one that people love to fight about. Let's see if I can answer in this comment. Hope your sitting down this could wind both of us. You can use the same machine to do anything you want. You can line, shade, and color pack with any machine if you know what you are doing. It also helps if you understand machines. Let's take it down another rabbit hole. Machines aren't liners, shaders, or color packers. They are just machines. People call them those three names to try and simplify things. You have faster and slower machines. You have different machine frames that allow for more or less stroke. The amazing thing is artist like different things. You can adjust the machine to do what the artist wants. I line with what someone might call a shader. It is a slower harder hitting machine with a longer stroke. A shader set up with less tension on the rear spring. If I move my hand faster I can shade with it. If I slow down I lay down a solid line. Take a "shader" sometime and put short tapered needle in it and start filling in color. The needle adjustments will effect how you can tattoo. Yes you can do anything with one machine if you understand machines, needles, and your art techniques. You can also adjust your machines so they do specific jobs. I can adjust a machine so it does line work better than shading. I can adjust a machine so it's easier to shade with it by adding more tension on rear spring. Certain machines will make it easier to do your job. Faster shorter stroke machines are good for one liners. Longer stroke machine with hard hit is good for color packing. The key point I'm trying to make is learn as much as you can. Knowledge will give you the power to make decisions because you know the equipment and how to manipulate it. You know the marks you want to make. Match it with a machine that allows you to make those marks successfully. So the answer is yes and no. You can adjust yourself or your machine.
I just gotta set up from my brother...so i had my volts on 7...i was doin great for like almost a hour practicing on fake skin. an for some reason it wont go back down its stuck on 16 volts an the knob wont turn it down. What you think happend? Oh an my power supply didnt come with a power cord...i got a 125v power cord...but the box says i need a 250v power cord. You think this is the problem? The box isnt hot at all
When you're practicing stuff like this is good because you learn from it. From my experience you don't want to force things to work. You don't want something like this to break down while you're in the middle of a tattoo. It will make you look unprofessional and it will take a lot more time to finish the job. My suggestion would be to keep looking for some equipment that is better. If you have good or bad equipment always look for ways to improve.
I have had some really bad power supplies when I first started. I had to go through about four of them before I finally found one that worked correctly. When you get the cheaper ones they tend not to work like they should if you can eventually go for a better power supply. Having a really good power supply is a must and it will last you a really long time
Hi Just Found Ur Channel and I've gotten Some Good pointers from You ...i just Bought a Beginner tattoo kit so I can LEARN How to tattoo on Myself I got some PRACTICE Skins but Some Questions I Still have and I just HOPE You keep posting cuz Last Video I seen if yours was a Year ago and Nothing RECENTLY.... If you have a NEW CHANNEL Please Keep me posted... Thanks for your INFO cuz You Explain it WELL and EASY
Thank you for this video. I’m a super noob to tattooing and bought a kit just to touch up my own stuff. Not for a career. I did really well first day but these are the things I need to learn. I subscribed and will watch and learn. Thank you.
I’ve been watching quite a bit. First touch up I did came out good but I think I had the needle out a hair too far because it would get hung up in my skin. So I think less needle and a bit of angle on the gun rather than straight down will make for a better experience. Although what I did cane out good.
Should it be running at ~50% duty if you go by sound? My machine sounds great, not bogging down too much, but running at a lower duty. If I bring the volts up it gets to about 50% but it seems to be hitting too hard. I'm using reelskin and its cutting it. At this point I'm not sure if it's actually hitting too hard or if reelskin is just really fragile.
Couple issues here. Fake skin isn't real skin. Even if they call it that. It is rubber and will act differently. Rubber should actually take more damage than real skin. If you are cutting it then you will most likely cut a person with that machine. Don't think it's your duty that is the issue. The machine is running too fast or your hand is moving too slow. With the needle moving so fast it is acting like a razor blade or cutting device. You want to slow that down so the needles puncture the skin and leave ink without chewing up the skin.
@@TattooUniversity Wow man I really I appreciate you and your fast response. As soon as I read your comment, I quickly set up and tried a faster hand speed and that seemed to have made a huge difference. I was slowing down because my lines were coming out real faint. I think I may need to actually go deeper and bring up my hand speed. I'm going to go practice with that in mind. Again, thank you so much for everything you do 🙏
I have a ? I have to use my machine at prety high volts,but still seem like not enough power,power supply is one of those dual liner/shader.sumthin is not rite n e ideas?thank ya
Awesome vid! Glad that I found it. Got a new coil recently but that machine also confused me. It’s so powerful that can only start at 3.5 and it kicking loud. And I can normally do lines at about 3.7. I guess it’s depends to the machine Hope it’s normal. 🥴
Very normal. If it's working how it should. Somewhere down the line this voltage confusion was thrown out there. I always run 8 volts bull crap. You only use what it takes for the machine to run correctly. 😁
The setup volts depends the amount of wraps on your coils. There is no sweet spot. Got 4 different liners machine for different lines, one is running on 3.6 volts the setup is for a 3 round liner needle till maximum 5RL needle the bigger the needle the more power a need to get the needle in the skin. So for a 7 or 9 RL I got a different machine. And need more volt to get it run .... because I need a little bit more power I need different coil, coils with more wraps. Most important know how a coil machine works, if you know how it works, then you know how to adjust. A machine is not going faster if your put more volts in it ... it goes harder... not faster it's a big difference.
I listen to machine but it doesn't make that noise until 10 volts 😬 everyone talks about 7 or 8 volts but my machine doesn't sound like that at those volts. What could it be??
What is the best tattoo gun to get I have the Chinese kit can I get a 10 coil are a 8 coil I even have the pen it does not put in the ink in the skin right what the best gun to get
You can use both. Typical liner machine is fast and has short stroke. Used with thinner inks. Typical Shader has longer stroke and higher tension on the rear spring. Yes you can line with a shader. I find it more helpful if you use a thicker ink. It all depends on what you like and your hand speed.
If you don't have enough voltage you will get ghost line. If you go too deep it will hurt and bleed. Machine set up and needle will effect voltage needs. Do a test line and adjust.
theres a lot more variables to that adjustment and final setting but you did hit the nail so to speak but the variables that also affect the final product are important to know and address before you ever clipped the cord and stepped on the peddle like point gap , spring reflex the angle the point screw and spring are set at then theres coil size armature bar weight and position and needle bar ,tube configurations and rubber bands holding bar in place all have a direct effect on that final power setting and quality of work it will do
There is a lot to fit into one video, so I try to break it down into several videos. It takes years to learn all this information. That would be difficult to condense into one session.
right on i was just saying that there are a lot more things that go into the pre check n insertion of a needle into someone than the lay man would even think could affect the outcome and i really enjoyed your video as it sounded like you actually get what it takes to do the work and unselfishly shared it to all thanks really not meant as negative criticism or disrespect just a point of my experiences and what i encountered along the way huck though he dogged paul rogers out has the best info for tattooing n even he missed some so i hope i didnt piss ya off as wasnt my intent just passing along my info to help another out and preserve the art n its artists as well as the mechanical aspects often unrealized untill they are affected by it .
Try to find a builder who has a liner for sale around that price. If they aren't over charging for their machines you can find a good machine for $100.
You can also email me or contact me on social media. I have different machines for sale. Depends on what people trade me. I've sold really good machines for around $60. Also sell cheaper builds for around $30. Just depends on what I have at the time and the quality of it. email - jauntyartist@hotmail.com insta- tattoouequipment
This is a long complicated answer but I will try to make it short. Voltage varies from machine to machine. The amount of wire and quality of your coils will effect your voltage. The clip cord and power supply will effect your voltage. You need to know how the machine runs and adjust your voltage accordingly. Also depends on what you are doing. With a coil machine you can turn up the voltage and get a harder hit for color packing. Turn down the voltage and get a soft hit for shading. You need to understand how the machine works in order to understand what voltage to use. Typically cheaper machines use more voltage because they are lower quality. The wire is thinner wire and they usually are 10 wraps. More wire typically more voltage needed to run. Same machine with better materials will take less voltage to run. So when someone tells you to run your machine at a certain voltage they don't know what they are talking about unless they have experience with that machine. There is a way for you to tell how much voltage your machine needs. You turn the voltage up until you feel it hit hard enough to do what you want. Put your thumb under the arm bar nipple and feel it. It is only correct when the machine does what you want it to. If it still isn't working you need to tune your machine. There is probably more that goes into this. Too much to put in one answer. Short answer is do what works. If it doesn't work something is incorrect. Voltage is a variable that depends on other factors. Your machine set up and how it is built. What you are trying to do and your style of tattooing.
I could meditate and learn tattooing at the same time. However watching this I learned that my feelings as a person BEING tatted, the artists had their machines too high. I am an illustrative and creative artist and can at least tell by ear how much buzzing is in the field of irritation. I have had some bad experiences. Even now when I exercise particular line work will swell from certain artists. As well, I decided I would only entertain brown artists, being that it seems they are more understanding of our skin conditions, moisturizing and aftercare, fat distribution and etc. Can we all introduce discussions around checking in with the clients when it comes to voltage/riding the tube issues??
Needle sticks out and you control the depth with your hand. You can feel when it's right. Takes some practice to understand. Also need to look at the tattoo to make sure everything is correct
Simone help. I got vlad blad pro liner as well as mike pike machines. Both start working well at fist but in about 1hr the power drops. And I have to crank up the volts? Is it the power supply ?
This methodology doesnt apply as much to rotary machines correct? Right now my sweet spot for lining is 6-6.5 and shading 8.5 anywhere up to 10.2. This is based on my hand speed
In a way it does. When I turn up the voltage on my rotary machine I still listen to the machine. Does it sound like its slow or too fast. Rotaries the voltage changes the speed. You have to match the speed of the machine with your hand speed. If you are seeing a lot of blood and damage you turn down the voltage. If you are getting spotty lines you turn it up. I usually run my rotaries around 6 volts, but I have a machine with a faster motor. I only run it at 4 volts because 6 is too fast. Practice and getting to know your machines better will let you know how much voltage is good for you.
In order to answer a question like this you need to understand tattoo machines. The difference between rotaries and coils. How machines are set up to work differently. What you need to take into consideration is the speed and hit. With a rotary pen you would turn up the voltage and increase the speed of the pen. The hit would stay the same unless it was adjusted with a give clip or another device. You always are looking for the right combination of hit and speed. You never want to overwork the skin so it is better to use just the right amount of both.
The answer would be yes. You would just need to apply the same concept to the different device. Never just turn up the voltage and hope for the best. Learn how to adjust the machine for what you are doing and your hand speed. Once these things are synced up with your machines settings you will get a good result.
@@TattooUniversity thank you I'll go home an test that out. I've done some Pretty good tattoos an they have come out good . However I just use my machines based off what other tattoos artist have recommended. I never knew about this process and now using the cheyne machine I wasn't aware I'd you could check for bog or not but the sound this was big for my mob shader I tried that out yesterday
@@lockstarkingding Everyone is different and will have different settings. It is good to figure out what works for you. Use other artist advice to get you started and then make adjustments for how you tattoo. I always read the tattoo. Look at it and see if everything is correct. Is the color going in solid? Is it chewed up? Then I make adjustments until I figure out what will work the best. Do a test area and see if the settings are correct. Make adjustments as needed. Experienced artist know how to make these adjustments when needed. Knowledge and time help you decide what needs to be done in different situations.
@@TattooUniversity thank you that's a big help because its almost impossible to get an apprenticeship in my area been wanting it for years. Your videos are a blessing man
Im 1st timer and i just ordered a tattoo set and this vid help me understand how to tune my machine.. I wonder if this also applies if its shading machine?
Machines are tuned the same. They are adjusted with different tension and stroke length. The basics are the same. You need everything lined up so it works. Once it is set to work you adjust it to do what you want.
can be normal for cheaper machines. If the coils aren't made from good materials. Also 10 wraps and 12 wrap coils take more voltage to work. The more wire the more voltage needed. Way to fix that is tune the machine better.
@@TattooUniversity cheers for the advice I brought it from someone who builds them I brought a liner off him as well liner works great at 6 volts and I've played with the packer and I've got it down to 7.8volts and seems nice and smoother now. Great videos and valued information all the best from England United Kingdom.
Really good tips in here, thank a lot! Just a question, you’r setting up the voltage of your machine like this for human skins... But what about fake skin, who is stronger; adding 1 volt would help no? Thank and keep going the good work!
I have learned a lot thanks to you, I have one problem my machine runs nice at least that what I think. Out of the box contact screw was at a sharp angle it touched a front spring at an angle just the edge I have watched videos the guy says it must to touch spring flat. So I adjusted it and the sound is better I got right figures. But I have to kick-start maybe just more volts? According to my powrsupply I use 6,5. I also don't know if you mention in any of your vids about figure 8and two circles /armature bar niple. Thank you for visiting if you could answer I would be delighted but I don't expect the answer thank you very much.
Now I'm afraid that contact screw is in a wrong place cause it touches not a tip of a front spring maybe that's why I have to kick-start. But it touches flat of I want it to touch a tip it touches spring at an angle I don't know maybe I Need shorter spring but the angle I have now but it would change a lot wouldn't It? Maybe I'll just play around
I've heard that contact screw should hit flat and I've heard it should be rounded. I prefer to round them off. The machine will need to be fine tuned. It is running out of the box but not running as good as it could. Adjust the gap between the rear core and the armature bar. Adjust your springs so that your duty cycle is correct. Adjust your stroke so it is correct. You can also adjust the weight of the armature bar. Also change out the cheap connections with brass connections. All of these things will help. These machines can run with less voltage but you have to adjust it first. Out of the box it will probably run at 8 volts or more. You can also change out the clip cords. You have to crank up the amps if your clip cord is really thin.
I've messed with machines enough to know all the adjustments. If you run this out of the box it will not be a good machine. If you know what to do you can turn these machines into great running machines.
What you need is someone who knows how to set a machine up correctly. Get good quality parts from a builder. Tell them how you want it. Fast or slow running. Hard hitting or soft. Short or long stroke. If they are a good builder the machine will last you a long time without tuning.
Try out some cheaper knock off rotaries. See what you like and buy the name brand machine in that style. Knock offs will break quickly, but give you enough time to see if you like it. Try the styles that take a cartridge. Cartridge systems are going to be standard in tattooing.
If you accidentaly heat up your coils with too much voltage and the machine starts running weaker, is that a permanent issue or will the coils be okay after they have cooled down?
Hey man I really appreciate you helping out people who just can't afford expensive equipment start off with what they have. My machine has a frame similar to yours with an angled rear deck. I just can't tune it so it runs properly in lower voltages. I've tried taking off some of the tension on the rear spring by bending it downwards, I can get it to run at very low voltages but even if I turn it up it just hits weakly and feels wobbly. If I put more tension on the rear spring, it hits nice and hard but I have to crank the voltage up to 8 volts, less than that and it won't hit hard enough. Make it a 10 if I put the rubber band on. I ran the supply through a multimeter and it checks off. The gap between the rear coil and armature bar is already very small, also the armature bar is lined up with the coils and vise. The front spring is off center because the contact post's hole where the contact screw goes was drilled diagonally for some reason, so the contact screw is angled to the side. Gotta replace that, I guess. Anyway, do you have any advice for me? I'm going for a sculpting liner so I can start lining real slowly like you mentioned in the video about straight lines. I'm trying a dime gap at first since anything more than that and I have to crank the voltage up to 12v+, sometimes even for it to just run. Is it okay to tattoo with a high voltage if the machine is not chewing up my skin?
The guy who sold me this one said those were 10 wrap coils, but I didn't cut then open to take a look. Is there any chance that the voltage issue has something to do with weak coils?
This video really helps considering iv just going to start giving tattooing ago maybe pig skin first don’t want no shity job on anybody till got it down too a t awesome video
Just got my machine,& I wanna go over a tattoo I have,which needle should I use to go over it to make it darker(I knw how to draw&I have a steady hand...Ur advice will mean a great deal...Thank you for ur comment...
Watch the video about using your middle finger to steady your machine. Also watch the practice skins video where it talks about using your hand to steady the machine. Having a steady machine will keep your linework steady and straight. If your lining you will want to use a tight group or lining needle. The right needle depends on the size of the tattoo. Bigger outline would require a bigger needle. Small outline would require a smaller needle. I suggest that you watch some of the other videos I've done. You can't learn everything from one video. Focus on the practice videos and linework videos. Also watch the needle video.
Tattoo University Thanks for the reply,the tattoo is the size of my hand....This is y I ask which needles do I use...I started with the 7RL,so far it looks pretty good....Am going over a tribal scorpion...But I just started the other day,but I stop to see how I heal... I dnt feel that I did a bad job...So I will continue tomorrow... I just want to knw which needles to use that all...Am always open to learn (CORRECTLY)!!!!Thanks for replying....It means a great deal,n it also shows that u read ur comments...
I usually wait at least 2 weeks or longer between tattooing the same area again. You will find that the spot will be more sensitive the second time around if you don't wait long enough.
If you are drawing something and it is very small what size pencil would you use? If you are a painter you would use a bigger brush for large areas and a small brush for detailed areas. It is the same concept. Smaller lines require a small needle group and larger ones require a bigger group. You can use a 3rl or a 5rl if you are doing really small things. 7rl is standard for most things. 9rl and bigger is best for bold outlines.
Thank you,u made it very clear....understood.And is it the same thing for the tips...Cuz my kit didn't come with the sizes if the tips...So I try to figure it out on my own or by looking at ur videos...But thanks a million....
You want to start buying disposable tips. You will know what size they are when you do that. With the cheap ones you just have to find one that fits snug. Not the best.
A few hours ago, someone told me to watch this guy's videos with the speed turned up to ×1.25. It literally makes it go in a normal tempo!
THANK YOU!
@@kelseyshaver1378 anytime 👌
😭😭
@@guaca7869 don't be sad, we here for u
best advice!
I recognize that sound! I had no idea my wife did tattoos!
🤣🤣🤣🤣
😂
Hahaha 😂😂😂
🤣🤣🤣😭💀
🤣🤣🤣
Its very rare when ppl actually make a video about so specific but extremely important at the same time in tattooing..
thank you very much ;)
Like I never knew how to put the needle in .. a lot of times I had it upside down.. :D
Awesome vid bro! I did an apprenticeship over 20 years and then never tattooed due to the military. This was a great refresher.
Glad to help
How many of y'all closed your eyes ? Lol
ScrewedUpPapi lol my 4 year old daughter was watching this video with me and she said” mommy he said close your eyes 👀 “ she closed her eyes then I closed mine and listened lol this video was very helpful though I must say!
I did... Wtf
I saved this video awhile back because i knew this would be an excellent reference for when it was go time for me. -my uncle called my number and i watched this vid before and when tuning my liner and it was clutch. Not only did i get into a good lining rhythum my auntie that i tattooed smiled and is happy so far with our first ink session. -thank you bro you helped me stay focused and keep it clean and crispy (it was a brand new machine too). 🤙🤙🤙🤙 Greeting's from the island of Guam 🇬🇺 🇺🇲 .
I buggered around with lower voltages until I got to the magic 8. Leaves good crisp clean lines. 7 was just too soft, 7 or lower would have been good for softer work. But 8 works pretty great.
What machine are you using where you need 8v to run loaded? My machines run smoothly at 4 to 6 volts, but I build my own so I know what to expect.
My liner also runs 5-6v@@deanstephens5940
Thank you sir! I watched 5 videos today and you made more sense with the voltage thing so far. The ear thing was something I was dependent upon and you are the first person I heard reference it. Much appreciated.
This is the first video I see with someone saying to close ur eyes and listen...It helped out a lot , Thanks...
You are Welcome!
“Crank up the voltage and going to town on someone “ I’m screaming
He really takes the time to put it in laymen terms so you can understand and yes he keeps his voice calm and even makes for a relaxing listen thanks for such a good video..
Finally someone explained exactly what I've been wanting to know! Thank you!
he's relaxing to listen to almost like Bob Ross
Thank You!
Issac Thornburg totally the Bob Ross of Tattooing I’ve learned so much from this guy I gotta check out his IG and website. I dig the tips
Dude your videos are so helpful. You’d be amazed how many artist I worked under don’t know anything about machines and say that. They just set up and go. When I would ask they wouldn’t know. Simple things too.
Best ASMR video I've ever listened to. I started drifting into dreamland
I'm going to do a tattoo asmr video now. Stay tuned for it.
I was thinking the exact same thing and felt it too!
Clip have two ,but on my coil machine as only have one brass part for the power supply, looking for the second brass
Dude sounds just like Brian Posehn and I couldn't be more excited about it.
I get that a lot
Dude, solid information, just the right amount of detail and explanation 👍🏽👍🏽to you. This is a crucial part of the process and I remember what it was like first starting out. It can be intimidating at first. So keep up the great work and continue spilling solid information
I love this video to help fall asleep every night. his method is great tho, but don't be afraid to turn up the voltage, depending on your machine build it could vary, do what he shows you with the finger, if it stops its too low, you have to hear the machine sound change when entering skin, that's what your looking for, if you put your finger on the bar and there is no sound change, it's too high. good luck
Thank you for sharing your knowledge in such a patient and non-condescending way! Means a lot to us that are just getting started :)
Chicano tats
First morning laugh goes to Tyler hughes, thank you 😆🤙... Best video ive watched by far. Thank you for the detail. The Bob Ross of tattooing!
Far best video about voltage and right tune coil machine ❤
Probably the best video and information out there.
Can u buy the plastic bag that goes around the cord in a store?? Like store store not online
Hey man,great vid. I have a question,when I’m doing line work,or even shading,my lines I use about 7.5-8.5 volts,using a dragon hawk rotary machine. Now when doing line work,why is the needle sometimes,get stuck in the skin as I’m laying a line? Is it because the machine is a china-cheaper machine? Idk,but it is driving me crazy,please if u can do a video on it,that would be AWESOME !
I used to get that, too! Man, slowin' down, taking your time, chopping it up with your collector...
Yeah, try it out.
You’re probably pushing too deep. Needles tend to get caught if you’re going too deep and too fast. Try and pull back your needle a couple of mm or work on your depth control, that should help you out a lot
@@misakisadur needles out to far
Rotary is slower than coils i use to use a hummingbird rotary and i move very slow which gives me a clean line as for coils will always be faster than rotary
Also, a rotary machine doesn't always stop with the needles withdrawn when you cut the power! Depending on where in the rotation it is, the needle can be full out when you lift off, thereby getting caught. That is the main disadvantage of rotaries, and something that no-one talks about! They're ok for shading- with a bigger bundle of needles, but for single needle, or a 3 round liner, they're no good. Go coil- your lines will be finer, and more controlled.
Cool I’m sure you made videos on this topic before but I’m having trouble mining with the new rotary machine with needle cartridges. Is that common or is there a way to have the needle stay in place?
What if your kit gun wont work unless u crank the voltage... Do i need to tune my tattoo gun
Any tattoo machine you get online or from a kit will need to be tuned before using, good luck
Good looking with this I personally have an issue with setting the coil machines.. so I got accustomed to rotary. And I like your break down. With the voltage this has been the most informative video for tattoos I have watched. Thanks for the lesson
Glad to help!
@@TattooUniversity also I have another question I can't seem to find an answer to. When lining is it better have the machine hit harder or softer with the needle? and the same question for shading.
dude I watched a lot of your videos you helped me a lot just did my first tattoo on my leg came out incredible I applied everything I learned from you just want to say thank you for helping me along my journey. keep up the good work
Cool did that too 2 yrs ago. I've done about 12 so far = all super good
I have the same tattoo machine and flame coming out from bar why is it normal ?? Thank u
How about the amperage. How much do machines draw
ah man you have all the answers im after thank you so much , I have been running jack hammers and this info is so damn hard to find with everyone using pens now ... your a legend
Thanks. I plan on adding more videos soon.
I've been tattooing (practice skin) on 3.5 because I was afraid of it being too high.
Thank you so much for this video!
Glad to help
@@TattooUniversity Subscribed!!!
Hey buddy what if it’s the power on top what if that not right
So does this mean that you can use the same machine for lining and shading there doesn't need to be different springs or anything
This answer to that is a long and complicated one that people love to fight about. Let's see if I can answer in this comment. Hope your sitting down this could wind both of us. You can use the same machine to do anything you want. You can line, shade, and color pack with any machine if you know what you are doing. It also helps if you understand machines. Let's take it down another rabbit hole. Machines aren't liners, shaders, or color packers. They are just machines. People call them those three names to try and simplify things. You have faster and slower machines. You have different machine frames that allow for more or less stroke. The amazing thing is artist like different things. You can adjust the machine to do what the artist wants. I line with what someone might call a shader. It is a slower harder hitting machine with a longer stroke. A shader set up with less tension on the rear spring. If I move my hand faster I can shade with it. If I slow down I lay down a solid line. Take a "shader" sometime and put short tapered needle in it and start filling in color. The needle adjustments will effect how you can tattoo. Yes you can do anything with one machine if you understand machines, needles, and your art techniques. You can also adjust your machines so they do specific jobs. I can adjust a machine so it does line work better than shading. I can adjust a machine so it's easier to shade with it by adding more tension on rear spring. Certain machines will make it easier to do your job. Faster shorter stroke machines are good for one liners. Longer stroke machine with hard hit is good for color packing. The key point I'm trying to make is learn as much as you can. Knowledge will give you the power to make decisions because you know the equipment and how to manipulate it. You know the marks you want to make. Match it with a machine that allows you to make those marks successfully. So the answer is yes and no. You can adjust yourself or your machine.
My maschine sound all the same. Just louder and faster. It doesn't make this klick sound and chance the sound. Could this be or is something wrong?
Is this the same for a rotary?
Awesome video brother! Very informative for any beginners out there including myself! Thank you!
I just gotta set up from my brother...so i had my volts on 7...i was doin great for like almost a hour practicing on fake skin. an for some reason it wont go back down its stuck on 16 volts an the knob wont turn it down. What you think happend? Oh an my power supply didnt come with a power cord...i got a 125v power cord...but the box says i need a 250v power cord. You think this is the problem? The box isnt hot at all
When you're practicing stuff like this is good because you learn from it. From my experience you don't want to force things to work. You don't want something like this to break down while you're in the middle of a tattoo. It will make you look unprofessional and it will take a lot more time to finish the job. My suggestion would be to keep looking for some equipment that is better. If you have good or bad equipment always look for ways to improve.
I have had some really bad power supplies when I first started. I had to go through about four of them before I finally found one that worked correctly. When you get the cheaper ones they tend not to work like they should if you can eventually go for a better power supply. Having a really good power supply is a must and it will last you a really long time
@@TattooUniversity thanks!
Hi Just Found Ur Channel and I've gotten Some Good pointers from You ...i just Bought a Beginner tattoo kit so I can LEARN How to tattoo on Myself I got some PRACTICE Skins but Some Questions I Still have and I just HOPE You keep posting cuz Last Video I seen if yours was a Year ago and Nothing RECENTLY.... If you have a NEW CHANNEL Please Keep me posted... Thanks for your INFO cuz You Explain it WELL and EASY
Thank you for this video. I’m a super noob to tattooing and bought a kit just to touch up my own stuff. Not for a career. I did really well first day but these are the things I need to learn. I subscribed and will watch and learn. Thank you.
Just learn as much as you can first before tattooing on yourself.
I’ve been watching quite a bit. First touch up I did came out good but I think I had the needle out a hair too far because it would get hung up in my skin. So I think less needle and a bit of angle on the gun rather than straight down will make for a better experience. Although what I did cane out good.
The sound thing helps me a lot. thank you.
is 5.5 to 7.5 volts good for american traditional?😯
This was more helpfully then any video I've watched
Will larger needle groupings need higher voltage to overcome the higher surface tension?
Should it be running at ~50% duty if you go by sound? My machine sounds great, not bogging down too much, but running at a lower duty. If I bring the volts up it gets to about 50% but it seems to be hitting too hard. I'm using reelskin and its cutting it. At this point I'm not sure if it's actually hitting too hard or if reelskin is just really fragile.
Couple issues here. Fake skin isn't real skin. Even if they call it that. It is rubber and will act differently. Rubber should actually take more damage than real skin. If you are cutting it then you will most likely cut a person with that machine. Don't think it's your duty that is the issue. The machine is running too fast or your hand is moving too slow. With the needle moving so fast it is acting like a razor blade or cutting device. You want to slow that down so the needles puncture the skin and leave ink without chewing up the skin.
@@TattooUniversity Wow man I really I appreciate you and your fast response. As soon as I read your comment, I quickly set up and tried a faster hand speed and that seemed to have made a huge difference. I was slowing down because my lines were coming out real faint. I think I may need to actually go deeper and bring up my hand speed. I'm going to go practice with that in mind. Again, thank you so much for everything you do 🙏
I have a ? I have to use my machine at prety high volts,but still seem like not enough power,power supply is one of those dual liner/shader.sumthin is not rite n e ideas?thank ya
Machine tuning is the key. If the machine isn't set up correctly it will not tattoo. Learn how to tune it or find someone who can tune it for you.
Awesome vid! Glad that I found it.
Got a new coil recently but that machine also confused me.
It’s so powerful that can only start at 3.5 and it kicking loud. And I can normally do lines at about 3.7.
I guess it’s depends to the machine
Hope it’s normal. 🥴
Very normal. If it's working how it should. Somewhere down the line this voltage confusion was thrown out there. I always run 8 volts bull crap. You only use what it takes for the machine to run correctly. 😁
@@TattooUniversity Thank you for replying me president 🙏 This channel is a community with love. ✌️ Peace
You helped me get sum good sleep bro..cranking up the voltage
The setup volts depends the amount of wraps on your coils. There is no sweet spot. Got 4 different liners machine for different lines, one is running on 3.6 volts the setup is for a 3 round liner needle till maximum 5RL needle the bigger the needle the more power a need to get the needle in the skin. So for a 7 or 9 RL I got a different machine. And need more volt to get it run .... because I need a little bit more power I need different coil, coils with more wraps. Most important know how a coil machine works, if you know how it works, then you know how to adjust.
A machine is not going faster if your put more volts in it ... it goes harder... not faster it's a big difference.
I listen to machine but it doesn't make that noise until 10 volts 😬 everyone talks about 7 or 8 volts but my machine doesn't sound like that at those volts. What could it be??
Your binding post is not set correctly
Thanks for all the videos! How about the shading? That should be higher voltage right?
What is the best tattoo gun to get I have the Chinese kit can I get a 10 coil are a 8 coil I even have the pen it does not put in the ink in the skin right what the best gun to get
So how much volts should I use for lining?
Is that a liner ,or a shader machine. I'm still learning the difference ,and can you just use either one for both ?
You can use both. Typical liner machine is fast and has short stroke. Used with thinner inks. Typical Shader has longer stroke and higher tension on the rear spring. Yes you can line with a shader. I find it more helpful if you use a thicker ink. It all depends on what you like and your hand speed.
How much voltage would be ideal for thinner skin vs an arm like face?
Start off with less and add more until you get correct results
If you don't have enough voltage you will get ghost line. If you go too deep it will hurt and bleed. Machine set up and needle will effect voltage needs. Do a test line and adjust.
Why will my machine not run on lower voltage only above 9?
theres a lot more variables to that adjustment and final setting but you did hit the nail so to speak but the variables that also affect the final product are important to know and address before you ever clipped the cord and stepped on the peddle like point gap , spring reflex the angle the point screw and spring are set at then theres coil size armature bar weight and position and needle bar ,tube configurations and rubber bands holding bar in place all have a direct effect on that final power setting and quality of work it will do
There is a lot to fit into one video, so I try to break it down into several videos. It takes years to learn all this information. That would be difficult to condense into one session.
right on i was just saying that there are a lot more things that go into the pre check n insertion of a needle into someone than the lay man would even think could affect the outcome and i really enjoyed your video as it sounded like you actually get what it takes to do the work and unselfishly shared it to all thanks really not meant as negative criticism or disrespect just a point of my experiences and what i encountered along the way huck though he dogged paul rogers out has the best info for tattooing n even he missed some so i hope i didnt piss ya off as wasnt my intent just passing along my info to help another out and preserve the art n its artists as well as the mechanical aspects often unrealized untill they are affected by it .
“Look.Feel.Listen” Love it!
...taste.🤣
Is there a decent liner machine on the market for under $100
Try to find a builder who has a liner for sale around that price. If they aren't over charging for their machines you can find a good machine for $100.
You can also email me or contact me on social media. I have different machines for sale. Depends on what people trade me. I've sold really good machines for around $60. Also sell cheaper builds for around $30. Just depends on what I have at the time and the quality of it.
email - jauntyartist@hotmail.com
insta- tattoouequipment
so what is the machine you used for that voltage?is it a liner or a shader coz i cant figure it out.....
up
This is a long complicated answer but I will try to make it short. Voltage varies from machine to machine. The amount of wire and quality of your coils will effect your voltage. The clip cord and power supply will effect your voltage. You need to know how the machine runs and adjust your voltage accordingly. Also depends on what you are doing. With a coil machine you can turn up the voltage and get a harder hit for color packing. Turn down the voltage and get a soft hit for shading. You need to understand how the machine works in order to understand what voltage to use. Typically cheaper machines use more voltage because they are lower quality. The wire is thinner wire and they usually are 10 wraps. More wire typically more voltage needed to run. Same machine with better materials will take less voltage to run. So when someone tells you to run your machine at a certain voltage they don't know what they are talking about unless they have experience with that machine. There is a way for you to tell how much voltage your machine needs. You turn the voltage up until you feel it hit hard enough to do what you want. Put your thumb under the arm bar nipple and feel it. It is only correct when the machine does what you want it to. If it still isn't working you need to tune your machine. There is probably more that goes into this. Too much to put in one answer. Short answer is do what works. If it doesn't work something is incorrect. Voltage is a variable that depends on other factors. Your machine set up and how it is built. What you are trying to do and your style of tattooing.
Whats a gr recommended voltage for shading?
Really good Video. Thx and greetings from Germany
What Maschine you have in the video?
I could meditate and learn tattooing at the same time. However watching this I learned that my feelings as a person BEING tatted, the artists had their machines too high. I am an illustrative and creative artist and can at least tell by ear how much buzzing is in the field of irritation. I have had some bad experiences. Even now when I exercise particular line work will swell from certain artists. As well, I decided I would only entertain brown artists, being that it seems they are more understanding of our skin conditions, moisturizing and aftercare, fat distribution and etc. Can we all introduce discussions around checking in with the clients when it comes to voltage/riding the tube issues??
And with respects. I am satisfied with my viewing experience.
The front looking double armature bar while running is a good tip also.
What if ur mechine sparks with electricity
What coil machine or rotary machine would you recommend for a beginner and power supply??
Like your videos .
Does the machine run and touch along the skin while ur runnin
Needle sticks out and you control the depth with your hand. You can feel when it's right. Takes some practice to understand. Also need to look at the tattoo to make sure everything is correct
Yooooo Brian Posehn, whatre you doing in a tattoo video?
What plastic did you cover your equipment with?
Oh, i've been going with a bit too slow power. (Traning on fejkskin)
Simone help. I got vlad blad pro liner as well as mike pike machines. Both start working well at fist but in about 1hr the power drops. And I have to crank up the volts? Is it the power supply ?
Are we talking about a coil or a rotary?
I have a friend who is a tattooist. He runs his liner at 17 volts. Is that okay?
If he isn't messing anyone up with it and it's running correctly
This methodology doesnt apply as much to rotary machines correct? Right now my sweet spot for lining is 6-6.5 and shading 8.5 anywhere up to 10.2. This is based on my hand speed
In a way it does. When I turn up the voltage on my rotary machine I still listen to the machine. Does it sound like its slow or too fast. Rotaries the voltage changes the speed. You have to match the speed of the machine with your hand speed. If you are seeing a lot of blood and damage you turn down the voltage. If you are getting spotty lines you turn it up. I usually run my rotaries around 6 volts, but I have a machine with a faster motor. I only run it at 4 volts because 6 is too fast. Practice and getting to know your machines better will let you know how much voltage is good for you.
Perfect thanks thats basically what ive been doing..i have a the fkirons direkt2, so direct drive and im still feeling it all out
Idk how much i trust this dude. I don't see a single tatt on his arms lmao
Watch newer videos
Also just watch more videos. You don't have to trust me. The proof is in the video. I only show what's tried and true information
Dose this apply with machines like the Cheyenne hawk thunder or other pens?
In order to answer a question like this you need to understand tattoo machines. The difference between rotaries and coils. How machines are set up to work differently. What you need to take into consideration is the speed and hit. With a rotary pen you would turn up the voltage and increase the speed of the pen. The hit would stay the same unless it was adjusted with a give clip or another device. You always are looking for the right combination of hit and speed. You never want to overwork the skin so it is better to use just the right amount of both.
The answer would be yes. You would just need to apply the same concept to the different device. Never just turn up the voltage and hope for the best. Learn how to adjust the machine for what you are doing and your hand speed. Once these things are synced up with your machines settings you will get a good result.
@@TattooUniversity thank you I'll go home an test that out. I've done some Pretty good tattoos an they have come out good . However I just use my machines based off what other tattoos artist have recommended. I never knew about this process and now using the cheyne machine I wasn't aware I'd you could check for bog or not but the sound this was big for my mob shader I tried that out yesterday
@@lockstarkingding Everyone is different and will have different settings. It is good to figure out what works for you. Use other artist advice to get you started and then make adjustments for how you tattoo. I always read the tattoo. Look at it and see if everything is correct. Is the color going in solid? Is it chewed up? Then I make adjustments until I figure out what will work the best. Do a test area and see if the settings are correct. Make adjustments as needed. Experienced artist know how to make these adjustments when needed. Knowledge and time help you decide what needs to be done in different situations.
@@TattooUniversity thank you that's a big help because its almost impossible to get an apprenticeship in my area been wanting it for years. Your videos are a blessing man
Thank you, you explained this very well. I see I was taught by someone who did not know what they were doing.
Boi that voice has a certain sound to it... A particular type of depth... No denying it.
Im 1st timer and i just ordered a tattoo set and this vid help me understand how to tune my machine.. I wonder if this also applies if its shading machine?
Machines are tuned the same. They are adjusted with different tension and stroke length. The basics are the same. You need everything lined up so it works. Once it is set to work you adjust it to do what you want.
I assume you'd use the same concept with rotary tattoo pens.
Not often do people create videos about something so specific yet crucial in the world of tattooing..
I try to do videos that will make a difference
Love the videos and learning a lot from you..may I ask a question my colour packer only works at 10 volts is this normal. Many thanks. .
can be normal for cheaper machines. If the coils aren't made from good materials. Also 10 wraps and 12 wrap coils take more voltage to work. The more wire the more voltage needed. Way to fix that is tune the machine better.
@@TattooUniversity cheers for the advice I brought it from someone who builds them I brought a liner off him as well liner works great at 6 volts and I've played with the packer and I've got it down to 7.8volts and seems nice and smoother now. Great videos and valued information all the best from England United Kingdom.
Thank you, you’ve helped me so much! Great video you explain it perfectly! :D
This video was so easy to follow and understand! Thank you!
Really good tips in here, thank a lot! Just a question, you’r setting up the voltage of your machine like this for human skins... But what about fake skin, who is stronger; adding 1 volt would help no? Thank and keep going the good work!
This was fantastic. Thank you!
This helps me so much. Thank for the video.
I have learned a lot thanks to you, I have one problem my machine runs nice at least that what I think. Out of the box contact screw was at a sharp angle it touched a front spring at an angle just the edge I have watched videos the guy says it must to touch spring flat. So I adjusted it and the sound is better I got right figures. But I have to kick-start maybe just more volts? According to my powrsupply I use 6,5. I also don't know if you mention in any of your vids about figure 8and two circles /armature bar niple. Thank you for visiting if you could answer I would be delighted but I don't expect the answer thank you very much.
Now I'm afraid that contact screw is in a wrong place cause it touches not a tip of a front spring maybe that's why I have to kick-start. But it touches flat of I want it to touch a tip it touches spring at an angle I don't know maybe I Need shorter spring but the angle I have now but it would change a lot wouldn't It? Maybe I'll just play around
I've heard that contact screw should hit flat and I've heard it should be rounded. I prefer to round them off. The machine will need to be fine tuned. It is running out of the box but not running as good as it could. Adjust the gap between the rear core and the armature bar. Adjust your springs so that your duty cycle is correct. Adjust your stroke so it is correct. You can also adjust the weight of the armature bar. Also change out the cheap connections with brass connections. All of these things will help. These machines can run with less voltage but you have to adjust it first. Out of the box it will probably run at 8 volts or more. You can also change out the clip cords. You have to crank up the amps if your clip cord is really thin.
I've messed with machines enough to know all the adjustments. If you run this out of the box it will not be a good machine. If you know what to do you can turn these machines into great running machines.
Sphinx Wojerz Yeah you learned a lot, a lot of fucking bullshit listening to this fucking hack job
Ur opinion on a good machine for lining and shading....? Preferably a coil.
And whats ur opinion on rotary?
Look up hexagon_irons on instagram. Let him know you what you are looking for.
What you need is someone who knows how to set a machine up correctly. Get good quality parts from a builder. Tell them how you want it. Fast or slow running. Hard hitting or soft. Short or long stroke. If they are a good builder the machine will last you a long time without tuning.
Try out some cheaper knock off rotaries. See what you like and buy the name brand machine in that style. Knock offs will break quickly, but give you enough time to see if you like it. Try the styles that take a cartridge. Cartridge systems are going to be standard in tattooing.
If you accidentaly heat up your coils with too much voltage and the machine starts running weaker, is that a permanent issue or will the coils be okay after they have cooled down?
They will cool ...and it's not a issue unless u keep overheating them
Thank you! This cured my insomnia
Glad I cold help
Definitely a great teacher in the arts
Hey man I really appreciate you helping out people who just can't afford expensive equipment start off with what they have. My machine has a frame similar to yours with an angled rear deck. I just can't tune it so it runs properly in lower voltages. I've tried taking off some of the tension on the rear spring by bending it downwards, I can get it to run at very low voltages but even if I turn it up it just hits weakly and feels wobbly. If I put more tension on the rear spring, it hits nice and hard but I have to crank the voltage up to 8 volts, less than that and it won't hit hard enough. Make it a 10 if I put the rubber band on. I ran the supply through a multimeter and it checks off. The gap between the rear coil and armature bar is already very small, also the armature bar is lined up with the coils and vise. The front spring is off center because the contact post's hole where the contact screw goes was drilled diagonally for some reason, so the contact screw is angled to the side. Gotta replace that, I guess.
Anyway, do you have any advice for me? I'm going for a sculpting liner so I can start lining real slowly like you mentioned in the video about straight lines. I'm trying a dime gap at first since anything more than that and I have to crank the voltage up to 12v+, sometimes even for it to just run. Is it okay to tattoo with a high voltage if the machine is not chewing up my skin?
By the way my clip cord/foot pedal's wires are nice and fat.
The guy who sold me this one said those were 10 wrap coils, but I didn't cut then open to take a look. Is there any chance that the voltage issue has something to do with weak coils?
usually I have to see how the machine is set up. This way I can see if something is off. Send me some pics. juantyartist@hotmail.com
diesel why don't you try getting an apprenticeship like a real tattooer??
@@brianmackenzie3617 why don't you mind your business, 90 percent of "real tattooers" started out at home.
This video really helps considering iv just going to start giving tattooing ago maybe pig skin first don’t want no shity job on anybody till got it down too a t awesome video
Just got my machine,& I wanna go over a tattoo I have,which needle should I use to go over it to make it darker(I knw how to draw&I have a steady hand...Ur advice will mean a great deal...Thank you for ur comment...
Watch the video about using your middle finger to steady your machine. Also watch the practice skins video where it talks about using your hand to steady the machine. Having a steady machine will keep your linework steady and straight. If your lining you will want to use a tight group or lining needle. The right needle depends on the size of the tattoo. Bigger outline would require a bigger needle. Small outline would require a smaller needle. I suggest that you watch some of the other videos I've done. You can't learn everything from one video. Focus on the practice videos and linework videos. Also watch the needle video.
Tattoo University Thanks for the reply,the tattoo is the size of my hand....This is y I ask which needles do I use...I started with the 7RL,so far it looks pretty good....Am going over a tribal scorpion...But I just started the other day,but I stop to see how I heal... I dnt feel that I did a bad job...So I will continue tomorrow... I just want to knw which needles to use that all...Am always open to learn (CORRECTLY)!!!!Thanks for replying....It means a great deal,n it also shows that u read ur comments...
I usually wait at least 2 weeks or longer between tattooing the same area again. You will find that the spot will be more sensitive the second time around if you don't wait long enough.
My grandson is learning how to tattoo, and he did some tattoo on his self and they left scars what does that mean
Angle not right best is to hold ur machine 45 degree
If am doing a small tattoo,how many needles use I use?The 7Rl or a 9RL?
If you are drawing something and it is very small what size pencil would you use? If you are a painter you would use a bigger brush for large areas and a small brush for detailed areas. It is the same concept. Smaller lines require a small needle group and larger ones require a bigger group. You can use a 3rl or a 5rl if you are doing really small things. 7rl is standard for most things. 9rl and bigger is best for bold outlines.
Thank you,u made it very clear....understood.And is it the same thing for the tips...Cuz my kit didn't come with the sizes if the tips...So I try to figure it out on my own or by looking at ur videos...But thanks a million....
You want to start buying disposable tips. You will know what size they are when you do that. With the cheap ones you just have to find one that fits snug. Not the best.
Well it depends on what kind of machine u have. I run mine at 10 coz it aint gon run on 4 or 5v
Just started to practice tattooing and i probably have the same problem? Is that even a problem?