How to Set up a Coil Tattoo Machine for Lining? In 2024

What is a coil tattoo machine, and what are its parts?

A coil tattoo machine is a sort of tattoo machine that uses coils to make the design. It consists of a hand grip, a needle bar, a tube, and two coils. The coils are connected to a power source, typically a battery, and the needle bar is connected to the hand grip. The tattoo artist holds the hand grip and uses the needle bar to puncture the skin and deposit ink into the tattoo.

Coils in the device create a magnetic field that is used to power it. The hand grip controls the power sent to the coils, which determines the machine’s speed.

What is the lining, and why do you need to use a coil machine for it?

The lining is the process of tattooing the outline of a design onto the skin. It is typically done with black ink and requires precision to create a clean, crisp line. A coil machine is often used for lining because it creates a fine line and is powerful enough to penetrate the skin deeply. Coil tattoo machines are more gentle on the skin than other tattooing technologies; they are less likely to cause harm.

How to set up a coil tattoo machine for lining?

1. First, you will need to gather all the necessary supplies, including the coil machine, ink, needles, and power source.
2. The following step is to assemble the machine. Start by attaching the hand grip to the needle bar. Then, connect the power source to the coils.
3. Once the machine is assembled, you must fill the ink cup with black ink.
4. To begin tattooing, hold the hand grip in your dominant hand and guide the needle bar with your other hand.
5. Start at one end of the line you want to tattoo and move slowly and steadily towards the other.
6. Be sure to go over the line multiple times to ensure that the ink is evenly deposited into the skin.
7. After tattooing the outline, you can fill the design with color or shading.
8. To do this, change the color of the ink in the ink cup and tattoo over the outline again.
9. Once you are finished, you can clean up the machine and store it until your next tattoo session.

How to use a coil machine for the greatest results:

• Always use fresh, sterile needles to avoid infection.
• Be sure to stretch and warm your hand before tattooing to prevent cramping.
• Practice fruit or vegetable skins before tattooing a human client to get a feel for the machine.
• Increase your speed gradually and steadily as you become more confident.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the skin before tattooing to help the needles glide smoothly over the skin.
• After tattooing, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the tattooed area to help it heal.

Aftercare tips for keeping your lines looking sharp:

• Avoid excessive sun exposure for the first few weeks after tattooing.
• Apply a thin layer of lotion to the tattooed area several times daily to keep the skin hydrated.
• Gently clean the tattooed area with soap and water twice a day.
• Avoid picking or scratching at the tattooed area.
• Avoid soaking the tattooed area in water for extended periods.
• If the lines on your tattoo start to fade, get it retouched by your artist.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I use a coil machine for shading?

Yes, you can use a coil machine for shading. However, it is typically not as effective for shading as the lining. 

Coil machines deposit a lot of ink into the skin, resulting in blurry or uneven shading. Therefore, if you want to use a coil machine for shading, it is best to practice on a piece of fruit or vegetable skin first to get a feel for the machine and how it works.

Can I use other colors of ink besides black?

You can use other ink colors with a coil machine. However, black ink is typically used for lining because it provides a clean, crisp line. If you want to use another color of ink, it is best to practice on a piece of fruit or vegetable skin first to get a feel for the machine and how it works.

What size needles should I use for lining?

The thickness of the line you want to tattoo will determine the size of needles utilized for the lining. For instance, if you want to tattoo a thin line, use a smaller needle. On the other hand, if you want to tattoo a thick line, you would use a larger needle. Therefore, starting with a smaller needle is always best and gradually increasing the size until you find the perfect size for your needs.

How deep should I tattoo the lines?

The depth of your tattoo will be determined by the thickness of the line. If you want to tattoo a thin line, use a shallow depth. If you want to tattoo a thick line, you will use a deeper depth. It is always best to start with a shallow depth and gradually increase it until you find the perfect depth for your needs.

How fast should I tattoo the lines?

A- The speed at which you tattoo the lines will depend on the thickness of the line. You will utilize a low speed if you want to tattoo a thin line. If you wish to tattoo a thick line, you’ll use a faster speed. It is always better to begin slowly and gradually increase the speed until you find the perfect speed for your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coil machines are a great option for those looking to tattoo lines. They are made for this specific purpose and can provide clean, crisp lines. However, if you are unsure about using a coil machine, it is always best to practice on a piece of fruit or vegetable skin first to get a feel for the machine and how it works.