Many new tattoo artists make the fatal mistake of primarily investigating the quality of tattoo guns and needles while forgetting to research the specifics of what is required to power their tattoo machines.  The power supply is a vital piece of machinery that can make or break any tattoo artist.  Understanding what specifications are needed in a tattoo gun’s power source will be the deciding factor for you to be successful in this profession.

For tattoo application, voltage is probably the most important feature to look at, investigate, and understand.  There are a variety of tattoo power supplies that range in voltage outputs, so in choosing the power supply we recommend that you understand to what extent the power source is capable of operating.  The goal of this equipment is to control the output voltage and to run a current to a specific output. The specific output is then maintained despite any variations (pressure from the contact of needle to skin).  This is an example of a regulated power supply and we also highly recommend these items.  Some of these power supplies have features and capabilities to run as low as 3 volts and as high as 15.  There are some expensive power sources that have the capability to run at 20 volts, which is optimal in all tattoo application situations.  Bottom line, the more power you are able to run the better and the ability to run at a steady output of power will result in less mistakes and better accuracy in tattoo application.

Fluctuations in power are a common problem in tattoo application and these issues are directly related to the operating voltage of the power supply.  Fluctuations most often occur when the electric current needed to operate at optimal output and is unable to function properly function due to increased pressure on the needle, thus resulting in a “slowing” of the needle inserting ink into the skin.  A tattoo artist would feel the power in the needle fluctuate due to this increased pressure, which can often result into undesired lines and shade.  To better deal with this possible issue regulated power sources offer an answer as the power flow is set to be constant or the power supply is regulated as mentioned above.  

Another question that new tattoo artists should as themselves is how many tattoo guns are they going to have hooked up to one machine?  Most tattoo artists utilize multiple guns for lining and shading so have several guns readily available is a must.  Many tattoo power supplies have the capability to have up to 4-tattoo gun connected at the same time.  Our suggestion would be to purchase a power supply that has at least 2 to allow you to have ease of accessing your lining and shading gun without having to manually switch out equipment.

As you journey onto investigating appropriate tattoo supplies and equipment you will see that power supplies vary in size, capability, and price.  When choosing what will work best, keep in mind what we have noted above, as these are common issues that many tattoo artists face when working during a tattoo session.  In then end, the most important thing is to know what you are purchasing, understand your tool’s capabilities, and know when you will need to upgrade to better complete your tattoo pieces and artwork.