Tattoo Kits

Tattoo Kits: What You Need To Know

Tattoo kits are available for every level of tattoo artist, from beginner to advanced professional.

A tattoo kit is a prepackaged set of tattoo tools of the trade. For a beginner who’s just learning about tattooing, the purchase of a tattoo kit is the logical place to start. If you have a serious interest in learning how to tattoo and would even like to start a tattoo business one day, then you need to know what type of tools and equipment can be found in tattoo kits.

Before deciding on a tattoo kit, it pays to do some research and shop around. Spend time watching professional tattoo artists at work and get some advice about places to buy tattoo kits. Working as an apprentice for an experienced tattoo artist is the best way to learn the craft and to find out about tools and equipment.

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Although tattoo kits are readily available, they should not be used without proper training and precautions. Giving a tattoo is a serious procedure that can result in injury or infection, so it’s very important to use proper sterilization procedures. To learn how to provide an appropriate level of sterilization and sanitation when giving a tattoo, observe a professional tattoo artist at work.

What’s included in a Tattoo Kit?

There is no standard formula for the contents of tattoo kits. Each retailer includes a slightly different mix of tools and materials in their tattoo kits. What might be sold as a beginner kit by one retailer may be marketing as an intermediate kit by another retailer. The tattoo kits described here for each skill level are typical, but individual kits may vary according to the manufacturer and retailer.

Beginner Tattoo Kits

These essentials should be included in beginner tattoo kits:

A basic tattoo machine is a critical tool for a tattoo artist. Also known as a tattoo gun, this machine powers the needles that push pigment into the inner layer of skin known as the dermis. Higher-priced tattoo kits usually include higher quality tattoo machines.
A power supply with a clip cord and foot switch for the tattoo machine.
Disposable sterile needles and tubing.
An assortment of inks and caps. The best inks are easy to apply and stay vibrant after a tattoo is complete. The caps are used to hold the ink as it’s being applied to the skin.
Antiseptic wash, often called green soap.
An instruction book or video and flash art examples.
Practice skin (essential for getting started as a tattoo artist).

Intermediate Tattoo Kits

An intermediate kit will contain many of same items as a beginner kit, but will provide a wider selection.

These are some of the additional items to be found in intermediate tattoo kits:

Two different tattoo machines for line art and shading.
More needles, tubing, caps and ink, along with a cap holder.
Tattoo stencil paper to transfer designs.
Additional antiseptics, along with bandages and gloves.
Aftercare supplies.

Professional Tattoo Kits

The professional kit is similar to the intermediate kit, but contains more of each item. These additional pieces of equipment are essential for any tattoo shop and should be included in professional tattoo kits:

An ultrasonic is used to clean tattoo tools and equipment prior to sterilization. This macine uses cleaning solution and ultrasonic waves to remove particles of ink, skin and blood from tools and equipment.
An autoclave is an additional sterilizing machine that’s used after the ultrasonic. It uses high pressure water vapor to thoroughly sterilize tools.
A secure container is needed for disposing of used needles and ink caps, which are hazardous waste. These items are designed for only one use and must be properly disposed of according to local laws and regulations.

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Sources for Tattoo Kits

Most tattoo magazines have advertisement for tattoo supply companies that sell tattoo kits. Be sure to shop around and get advice from professional tattoo artists before making a purchase.