Whether you're pursuing traditional tattooing or permanent makeup (PMU), understanding different needle types is crucial to achieving the best results for your clients. One commonly used needle configuration, known for its versatility and precision, is the 7RL tattoo needle.
This article covers its potential applications and practical tips for tattoo and PMU artists looking to incorporate the 7RL tattoo needle line into their tool kit.
Understanding 7RL tattoo needles
The "RL" in "7RL" indicates this needle is part of the round liner family. The "7" indicates that the configuration has seven needle points tightly clustered together and arranged in a circular pattern. Like other needles in the round liner family, 7RLs are often used for drawing bold and precise lines.
Although available as traditional multi-use needles, there are also 7RL tattoo needle lines in single-use cartridge form. 7RL needle cartridges are designed to fit easily into compatible cartridge machines, allowing you to quickly change needles during a tattoo session. They are also pre-sterilized and disposable, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
Applications in traditional tattooing
In traditional tattooing and body art, 7RLs are primarily used for line work and detailed shading. They offer an outstanding balance between a fine line's precision and a thicker outline's boldness. Artists often use them specifically for:
- Outlining medium to large tattoos. The seven points making up the configuration make it ideal for creating bold outlines and defining the tattoo's shape and contours.
- Adding details. Thanks to the control they provide users, 7RLs are great for detailed work, such as intricate line patterns or scripts with clean, stable lines.
- Blackwork and dotwork. The precise lines possible with a 7RL make the needle ideal for blackwork tattoos, which require solid lines and sharp contrasts. Artists can also use them for dotwork, spacing dots to create shading effects that mimic grayscale or stippling techniques.
If you are a tattoo artist looking to explore 7RLs, consider experimenting with different taper lengths to adjust the sharpness of each line.
Different applications in PMU
PMU involves working on delicate facial areas, such as eyebrows, lips, and the edges of the eyes. Thanks to their precision and control, 7RLs are commonly used in PMU, especially for procedures like:
- Brow outlines and ombre brows. When creating brow outlines, 7RL tattoo needles can be used to lay down the initial framework for the brow shape. Additionally, they can be used for stippling to add depth and shading for ombre brows.
- Eyeliner tattoo. An eyeliner tattoo requires thin, delicate lines around the eyes. The precision offered by a 7RL helps prevent pigment spreading and is essential for achieving crisp and natural-looking eyeliner.
- Lip liner tattoo. You can use a 7RL needle cartridge to define the lip line or add a soft blush of color to the lips. The configuration's shape and size offer precision and coverage. These features ensure a smooth application key for enhancing the lip's natural contours.
Unlike traditional body art, PMU typically uses long-tapered needles, which are less invasive and cause minimal trauma to the skin. Additionally, single-use cartridges are often favored in PMU, as they offer better hygiene and precision.
Tips for using 7RLs effectively
Whether you're using tattoo needles for traditional tattooing or PMU, here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results:
Adjust your machine's power and speed
A slower machine speed allows you to control line depth more accurately, which is helpful for both outlining and shading. On the other hand, a faster speed creates more fluid lines and is ideal if you're using the needle for shading or filling in large areas. Experiment with different speeds to see what feels more comfortable for you.
Practice pressure control
Applying too much pressure can lead to blowouts, where the ink spreads under the skin. Light and consistent pressure is key, especially when working on sensitive areas like the face.
Shop quality supplies
With so many options to buy tattoo needles online, make sure to invest in high-quality needles from reputable brands. Reliable needle cartridges help ensure consistent line quality and reduce the risk of malfunction, which can impact your work and your client's safety.
Mastering tattoo needles can open up new opportunities for both tattoo and PMU artists. Understanding its features, applications, and unique effects can help you produce consistent and client-approved results. When purchasing tattoo needles online, buy only from reputable providers to ensure a successful tattoo session.
Keep practicing and elevate your tattooing with the right tools today!
