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How to Set Up a Tattoo Gun for Shading

After a tattoo has been completely outlined on the skin, the next step is to add shading. The tattoo machine that is being used for the tattoo will need to be set up for shading. A tattoo machine is called a "gun" by non-professionals and novices. Some tattoo artists choose to use two separate machines for outlining and shading or just one machine that can be used as a liner and a shader. The proper set up of a tattoo machine for shading can assist a tattoo artist in performing a tattoo of excellent quality.

Things You'll Need

  • Latex or nitrile gloves
  • Tattoo machine
  • Sterile needle
  • Sterile tube
  • Grommet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on a pair of clean latex or nitrile gloves. Insert the sterile tube into the tattoo machine. The tip of the tube should be facing the front of the machine.

    • 2

      Place a disposable grommet onto the armature bar post on the back of the tattoo machine.

    • 3

      Slide the sterile needle into the tube. The grouping of the needle should be flush with the tip of the tube opening.

    • 4

      Secure the eye loop, located on the back of the needle, onto the grommet. Use light pressure to push the eye loop of the needle onto the grommet.

    • 5

      Press the foot pedal to send power to the machine and ensure that the needle is moving in and out of the tube tip, remaining flush with the tube tip on return.

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