DIY Guide: How to Make Your Own Tattoo Gun

Tattooing has become a popular art form, with more and more people getting tattoos every year. However, professional tattoo equipment can be very expensive and not accessible to everyone. It’s not uncommon for aspiring tattoo artists to search for a more affordable option. Creating a makeshift tattoo gun is not a new concept, and although it’s not recommended, it can be done safely. If you’re interested in making your own tattoo gun, this article will guide you through the process.

Before delving into the instructions, it’s important to note that tattooing is only legal when performed by a licensed professional. Attempting to tattoo someone without proper training can cause serious harm, and it’s crucial to understand the risks. In addition, using improper equipment or ink can lead to infection or other complications. While it’s not recommended to use makeshift tattoo guns, the following instructions are provided simply for educational purposes. With that out of the way, let’s dive into how to make a tattoo gun.

Section 1: Basic Tattoo Gun Components

Motor and Needle

Every tattoo gun needs a motor and a needle. The motor usually comes from a CD player or a cassette player, but you can also buy a rotary motor from a tattoo supply store. The needle is typically made from a guitar string because it’s flexible enough to move in various directions. You’ll also need a rubber band, which helps to move the needle up and down.

Power Supply

You’ll need a power supply, which is what connects to the tattoo gun’s motor. You can build your own power supply from different components, or you can purchase one online from a tattoo supply store. The power supply will also need to connect to an outlet or a battery to work.

Grip and Tube

The grip is the part of the tattoo gun that you hold onto while tattooing. It’s typically made from stainless steel or plastic. The tube is what connects the needle to the motor and grip. You can buy both the grip and tube online or create your own using materials such as PVC or aluminum.

Clip Cord

The clip cord is what connects the tattoo gun to the power supply. It’s an insulated cable that has a clip on one end and a jack on the other. You can buy a clip cord online or create your own using an old stereo cable and alligator clips.

Stencil Paper and Transfer Gel

You’ll need to create a stencil on your client’s skin before you start tattooing. You can use stencil paper and transfer gel, which is available at most tattoo supply stores. The transfer gel helps to transfer the stencil design onto the skin.

Ink and Caps

You’ll need tattoo ink to create the tattoo design. Tattoo ink comes in various colors and is available at most tattoo supply stores. You’ll also need ink caps to hold the ink while tattooing. Ink caps are small, disposable cups that hold a small amount of ink.

Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning supplies are essential when it comes to tattooing to maintain a sterile environment. You’ll need anti-bacterial soap, alcohol wipes, and gloves to prevent infection. You should also have a sharps container to dispose of needles and other sharp medical supplies.

Tattoo Machine Frame

The tattoo machine frame is the backbone of the tattoo gun. You can easily make your own tattoo machine frame from various materials such as aluminum or brass. You can also purchase a frame from a tattoo supply store.

Needle Bar and Nipple

The needle bar and nipple are also essential components of a tattoo gun. The needle bar is what holds the needle and attaches to the motor. The nipple is what connects the needle bar to the tube. Both of these components are available at most tattoo supply stores.

Spring and Contact Screw

You’ll also need a spring and contact screw to complete your tattoo gun. The spring is what powers the tattoo gun and the contact screw is what you adjust to control the amount of voltage the tattoo gun receives. You can buy these components online or create your own using materials such as copper wire and screws.

In conclusion, creating a tattoo gun is a complex process. However, with the right components and tools, you can create your own tattoo gun at home. Remember to prioritize cleanliness and safety when creating and using your tattoo gun, to ensure that your clients receive a safe and hygienic experience.

2. Basic Tattoo Gun Components and Materials

What You Need to Build Your Own Tattoo Gun

Now that you have a little background knowledge about tattooing, it’s time to delve deeper into the tattoo gun components and materials that you will need to start building your own machine. Before you start building a tattoo gun, it’s important to invest in some quality materials to ensure that the machine works smoothly, and more importantly, safely. Here are some essential components that you will need for your tattoo gun:

1. Frame – The frame is the foundation of your tattoo gun. You can use a pre-made one or weld your own frame together. Make sure it’s sturdy and durable enough to last longer.

2. Coils – Coils are what drives the needle up and down, this is what will make the machine oscillates. You will need two sets of wrap coils, and each set should have two coils. Opt for 10 wrap coils if you are a beginner, as these are ideal for lining, shading, and coloring.

3. Armature Bar – The armature bar is attached to the needle and is responsible for pushing and pulling the needle up and down, as the coil magnetizes repels against it.

4. Tubes and Needles – These are the essential parts of the machine that come into contact with the skin, so you can’t skimp on the quality of these components. Opt for high-quality cartridges or needles, depending on your preference.

5. Springs – Springs are responsible for providing a buffer between the armature bar and the front and rear coil spools. You can either buy ready-made springs or make them on your own.

6. Capacitor – A capacitor stores energy in the machine, which will help it run more consistently.

7. Power Supply and Foot Pedal – The power supply is responsible for converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and regulating the voltage. The foot pedal allows you to control the tattoo machine’s power.

8. Clip Cord – A clip cord is used to connect the tattoo machine to the power supply.

9. Rubber Bands – These small rubber bands are wrapped around the tattoo machine to keep the needle in place.

10. Grommets and Nipples – These act as spacers between the needle and the tube, while ensuring a snug and secure fit.

Now that you know the basic components and materials required for making a tattoo gun, let’s move on to the next section, which is building the tattoo machine.

Materials Required for Making a Tattoo Gun

If you’re planning to make a tattoo gun, there are certain materials that are needed beforehand. Here are some of the essential pieces of equipment you’ll need to gather before you get started:

1. Motor

The motor is the primary power source of the tattoo gun. You can utilize an old Walkman or CD player motor for this purpose. However, ensure that you choose one with high power and speed.

2. Battery

You’ll need a battery to power the tattoo gun. A nine-volt battery is preferably the best option as it is easily accessible, reasonably priced, and convenient to work with. Ensure that the battery is fully charged before using it.

3. Needle

Next, you need a needle to create the tattoo. Needles available in the market vary in size and shape. Choose one that will suit your intended purpose. Also, ensure that you buy a needle that is sterile to prevent any chance of infection.

4. Tube Grips

Tube grips are used to hold the needle in place on the tattoo gun. You can use a pen as a makeshift tube grip, but this won’t work for long periods. A better option is to get a proper tube grip designed specifically for tattooing.

5. Wire

Finally, you will need a wire to connect the motor and battery. A copper wire is an excellent choice as it is flexible and conducts electricity efficiently.

Creating the Frame for Your Tattoo Gun

To make a tattoo gun frame, you’ll need the following materials:

Step 1: Cut the Aluminum Sheets

The first step is to cut the aluminum sheets into the size you want for your tattoo gun frame. You’ll need two pieces of aluminum sheets of the same size.

Step 2: Mark the Holes

Once you’ve cut the aluminum sheets, mark the holes where you’ll mount the motor and tube grip. To do this, trace around the motor and tube grip on one of the aluminum sheets.

Step 3: Drill the Holes

Drill holes through the aluminum sheets at the spots you marked in the previous step. The holes should be just large enough to fit the motor and tube grip.

Step 4: Assemble the Frame

Insert the brass or copper rod through the holes drilled earlier and fix it tightly with the nuts on each side of the frame. Attach the motor and the tube grip to the frame, using the screws and nuts provided.

Step 5: Connect the Motor to the Battery

The final step is to connect the motor to the battery using the copper wire you gathered earlier. Once you do this, you’ll be ready to start tattooing.

Conclusion

Making a tattoo gun is a cost-effective way to enhance your tattooing skills. However, it’s imperative to get the materials right before starting the project. With the right materials and tools, you can make a tattoo gun that is perfect for your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Start gathering the equipment and make your tattoo gun today!

Ready to Start Tattooing?

Well, there you have it! A simple guide on how to make a tattoo gun from materials around the house. We hope you found this article helpful and informative. Remember to always practice safety and hygiene when handling tattoo equipment. And if you’re new to tattooing, it’s best to start with simple designs and work your way up to more complex ones. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to come back for more exciting DIY projects!