Tattooing is not just a technical skill, but an art form. To create fine and detailed tattoos, choosing the right tattoo machine and stroke length is crucial. Stroke length determines the machine's impact force, the needle’s movement speed, and the maximum depth of the needle. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different stroke lengths and their functions and how to choose the right stroke length to help tattoo artists perfect various tattoo styles.
1. What is Stroke Length and Why Does it Matter?
Stroke length refers to the distance the armature bar travels in a coil machine or the distance covered during one rotation in a rotary tattoo machine. The length of the stroke directly affects the machine's impact, the speed of the needle, and how deep the needle can go.
It's important to note that needle depth and stroke length are separate. Needle depth refers to how far the needle extends out of the tube, while stroke length deals with how far the needle moves in each cycle. Although they are independent settings, adjusting the stroke length may sometimes require tweaking the needle depth to achieve the desired result.
2. Types of Stroke Lengths
Tattoo machines come in different stroke lengths, typically categorized into short, medium, and long strokes.
Short Stroke (1.8mm - 2.5mm): Short stroke machines move faster because the distance the needle travels in each cycle is smaller. They are great for soft black-and-grey tattoos, allowing for smooth shading with minimal skin trauma. However, they’re not ideal for lining work, as they lack the necessary power for precise lines and may not fully retract the needle, leading to ink pooling and potential stencil blurring.
Medium Stroke (3.5mm): A 3.5mm stroke is the most common size for tattoo machines. It strikes a good balance for various tattoo styles, including line work, shading, and packing color. This is a go-to option for artists who need versatility and stability in their work. Medium-stroke machines can handle smaller needle groups for lining and larger ones for shading.
Long Stroke (4.0mm and above): Long stroke machines are typically used for lining work, as they deliver a powerful hit to the skin. They can easily push larger needle groups into the skin and extend the needle further out of the tube for precision. However, long strokes are not ideal for shading, as they can cause too much trauma to the skin and result in rough blends. Multiple passes are often required to achieve smooth shading with a long stroke.
3. Choosing the Right Stroke for Different Tattoo Styles
Depending on your tattooing style and your client’s skin type, choosing the right stroke length is essential.
Short Stroke (1.8mm—2.5 mm): This technique is best for soft black-and-grey tattoos, particularly in delicate areas like the face, eyes, and eyebrows. It allows for seamless gradients without damaging the skin. However, short strokes are not recommended for lines, as they don’t provide the necessary power for precise, solid lines.
Medium Stroke (3.5mm): This stroke is great for a mix of line work, color packing, and shading. It works well for traditional and new school styles where both lining and shading are needed. For artists who specialize in large projects or intricate black-and-grey shading, this is a solid choice.
Long Stroke (4.0mm and above): Long stroke machines are designed to pack in ink quickly with big needle groupings, making them perfect for bold lines and color fills. However, they aren’t ideal for shading, as they tend to leave skin with a rough texture due to their power. If you need to focus on lines and color, a long stroke machine is the way to go.
4. JCONLY Epoch Wireless Tattoo Machine: Adjustable Stroke for Every Need
The JCONLY Epoch Wireless Tattoo Machine is a highly versatile tool designed for tattoo artists who need the flexibility to adjust their stroke length. Unlike most traditional machines with fixed strokes, the Epoch machine offers adjustable stroke options, allowing artists to customize the stroke length according to their tattooing needs.
With stroke lengths ranging from 2.4mm to 4.2mm, the Epoch Wireless Tattoo Machine offers a variety of settings, including 2.4mm, 2.7mm, 3.0mm, 3.3mm, 3.6mm, 3.9mm, and 4.2mm. This wide range of adjustable strokes gives tattoo artists the flexibility to tackle different styles, from fine lines to bold color fills, without switching machines.
One of the standout features of the Epoch machine is its wireless design. Powered by a 2000mAh rechargeable battery, the machine can run for 8 to 10 hours on a single charge. This wireless feature provides greater freedom of movement, reducing the constraints of cords and making long sessions more comfortable.
The Epoch Wireless Tattoo Machine also includes a smart LED screen, allowing artists to monitor and adjust machine settings easily. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, and the removable grip makes cleaning and maintenance simple.
5. How to Choose the Right Stroke Length for Your Work
Choosing the right stroke length starts with considering your tattoo style and your client's skin type. If you specialize in black-and-grey work, short strokes (1.8mm - 2.5mm) will give you the smooth blending you need. For a mix of line work and shading, a 3.5mm medium stroke will serve you well. If you need to pack in color or focus on bold lines, a long stroke (4.0mm and above) will give you the power you need.
The JCONLY Epoch Wireless Tattoo Machine is the perfect solution for tattoo artists who need to change stroke lengths on the fly. Its adjustable stroke options and ergonomic design allow artists to adapt to different styles and work efficiently, reducing strain and increasing comfort.
6. Conclusion
The stroke length of a tattoo machine plays a crucial role in the outcome of your tattoo work. By selecting the right stroke length, you can ensure that your tattoos come out exactly how you want them. The JCONLY Epoch Wireless Tattoo Machine, with its adjustable stroke lengths and wireless design, is an ideal tool for tattoo artists who want flexibility and precision in their work.
Whether you're just starting out or you've been tattooing for years, having a machine that suits your needs is essential for delivering top-notch tattoos. The Epoch machine, with its versatile stroke settings, wireless freedom, and long-lasting battery, is a must-have tool for any tattoo artist looking to advance their craft.
