The main groupings
| Grouping | Arrangement | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Round liner | Needles in a tight circle | Outlines and fine lines |
| Round shader | Needles in a looser circle | Small shading, filling |
| Magnum | One or two flat rows | Shading and colour over larger areas |
| Curved magnum | Flat rows with a curved edge | Smooth shading with softer edges |
Cartridges
Many artists use needle cartridges: the needle grouping sealed in its own housing, clicked into the machine and thrown away after the session. Whatever the system, the parts that touch the skin or ink must be new for every client.
More needles isn't better
A fine-line design wants a small liner; a large shaded area wants a magnum. The right grouping depends on the design and the artist's technique — the number alone says nothing about quality.
Single-use, always
Health authorities advise choosing a studio where needles are single-use and opened in front of you. A needle is never used on another person. Ask to see it — see how to choose a safe tattoo studio.
General information, not medical advice. Your artist's instructions come first; for anything worrying, see a doctor.
Sources
- US CDC Travelers' Health — Türkiye
- US FDA — Think before you ink: tattoo safety (Dec 2024)