Tattoo Kits

Tattoo Kits

tattoo kit : Every future professional tattoo artist has to start somewhere, and many choose to purchase tattoo kits to help learn the craft. You probably aren't going to get an apprenticeship until you have messed around a bit on your own. Tattoo kits provide you with an opportunity to do just that - ply your trade on fruit, leather and very generous friends. Before you lay out hard-earned cash for such a kit, acquaint yourself with the basics.

What Are Tattoo Kits?

If you're serious about learning how to create your own tattoos or considering opening your own shop some day, sooner or later you're going to find yourself looking at tattoo kits. Tattoo kits are packaged collections of the typical tools of the tattoo trade that are available for sale in most states to anyone at least 18 years old.

What Is Included a Kit?

There are hundreds of tattoo kits on the market. Each manufacturer has its own idea of what should go into a particular level kit, so one company's professional tattoo kit may be the equivalent of another company's intermediate set. Do your research before purchasing.

Beginner Kits

In the typical beginner's tattoo kit expect to find:

One tattoo machine, although the quality of the unit varies with kit pricing
Variable power supply unit to operate the tattoo machine (Make sure a foot operation switch and clip cord are included.)
A set of inks and caps
Disposable tubing
Sterile tattoo needles
Antiseptic wash (brands vary, but Green Soap is popular)
Flash art
How-to booklet
Practice "skin"

Company catalog for ordering further supplies
Intermediate Kits
An intermediate tattoo kit will usually contain the typical items found in a beginner's kit with a few variations:
Two tattoo machines, one for lining and one for shading
A larger supply of needles and tubing
A larger selection of inks
Caps plus a holder
Stencil paper for transferring tattoo designs to skin

Antiseptic supplies, plus various bandages, gauze, gloves, etc.
Aftercare kit
Professional Kits

Professional tattoo kits will contain many of the same items found in the intermediate kits, but will usually come with a larger supply of everything.The biggest difference you will see with the professional kits is the inclusion of an autoclave with sterilization pouches and an ultrasonic unit. Both of these items are indispensable for sterilizing all reusable tattoo machinery and supplies between customers.