Starting out as an artist can be challenging, especially in an industry that is notorious for gatekeeping information. As a self-taught and community-taught artist, I wanted to create this list as a resource to those starting out on their own. As it would have come in handy for me as a beginner had it been available. I hope this helps you in your tattoo journey! – please note, this is not an instruction manual, just simply a guide for sourcing materials.
Tattoo supplies can be hard to purchase if you don’t work in a shop, so Amazon, Hildebrandt Tattoo Supply, World Wide Tattoo Supply and Good Judy, were my go to’s. Some links below are from my amazon affiliate program, which credits me if you do end up purchasing from them.
Tips before you start:
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Before tattooing I would recommend taking a blood borne pathogens course, I did mine through Work Site Safety.
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There are also courses through Domestika on tattooing that can be helpful in learning how to set up and take down your workstation. This is the one that I watched by Ella Storm.
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I would also suggest getting tattooed, and asking your artist if they would be able to answer questions you might have, some artists will be open to it and some artists may not. Take note of how the artist sets up their area, how they sanitize and what techniques they might be using.
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I would NOT suggest buying needles or cartridges for your machines through amazon, these I would refer to the supply shops recommended above, as they will be much better quality. Most cartridges for rotary pen machines are also pretty universal.
Tattoo Supplies for Beginners
Rotary Pen and Power Supply
I first started out with a couple coil machines that came in a kit from Hildebrandt tattoo supply. Being a new artist I found these machines somewhat frustrating to learn on and tune so I quickly moved on a rotary pen machine from Dragon Hawk that I purchased off Amazon.
Click here for the link: Atom Pen
Table
Not always a necessity, depending on the placement of the tattoo, but nice to have for your clients comfort.
Click here for the link: Tattoo Table
Stencil Printer
A stencil printer was a must have for myself when I was first starting out, as my hands would often cramp trying to get my stencils perfectly hand drawn on stencil paper. This was my first printer and I still use the same one from time to time at the shop I work at.
Click here for the link: Stencil Printer
Stencil Stuff
Stencil stuff is used transfer your stencil onto your clients skin!
Click here for the link: Stencil stuff
Thermal Stencil Paper
Thermal paper is used to run through the stencil printer above, or can be used to draw a stencil on the paper.
Click here for the link: Thermal Stencil Paper
Clip Cord Covers for Machine
After thoroughly cleaning your machine you will also need to cover it prior to starting to tattoo. Make sure you know the thickness of your machine before purchasing.
Click here for link: Cord Covers
Grip Tape
This is used to secure the grip on your machine after the clip cord cover has been put on. You may also use this after the tatto is complete to secure the saran wrap around the area if you do not have medical tape (just make sure its not too tight).
Click here for the link: Grip Tape
Dental Bibs
When setting up your workstation, you will first sanitize the area with cavicide, place saran wrap over top of the tray, then lay the dental bib on top before placing any sanitized materials on the tray. The dental bib will help absorb spillage while keeping it safe from blood borne patheogons.
Click here for the link: Dental bibs
Ink Caps
Ink caps are used to hold the ink while your tattooing and they come in various sizes. Some things to look out for when dipping your machine in the ink are:
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Try not to hit the bottom of the ink cap, this can bend your needle and make it more painful or harder to tattoo, it can also change the way your needle performs.
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When dipping your machine in the ink cap, only insert the tip of the needle as the machine is on, ink should suck up into the well of the cartridge.
Click here for the link: ink Caps
Stools
As someone with back issues, it is very important to me that I am supported throughout tattooing and tattooers are often subjected to awkward positions. I would definitely recommend a saddle stool to keep your core engaged and help your back. It is also recommended to stools that it is made from polyurethane, for sanitize/cleaning.
Click here for the link: Saddle Stool
Aluminum Rolling Tray
For your workstation/set up, you are going to want to ensure that the surface is made of aluminum. Aluminum isn’t porous, so if blood borne pathogens get on it, they are easily wiped away when cleaning.
Green Soap
Green soap is used to wash away the ink and blood while tattooing, I wouldn’t recommend using it before you have your initial outline on the tattoo or else it may take away your stencil. Green soap should also be diluted in distilled water.
Click here for the link: Green Soap
Cavicide
Cavicide is used to sanitize and clean your equipment, even when practicing on fake skin I would recommend getting used to the rhythm of ensuring everything is sanitized before your needle hits the skin.
Click here for the link: Cavicide