For any tattoo or PMU artist, the needle is their paintbrush. To clients and newcomers in the industry, the variety can be confusing.

Let's break down the three fundamental types of tattoo cartridge needles that every professional should master.

1. Round Liners (RL):

As the name suggests, these are for creating lines. The needles are grouped in a tight, round formation, allowing for crisp, clean, and solid outlines. They are the foundation of almost every tattoo, used for everything from delicate script to bold traditional borders. The higher the needle count (e.g., 9RL vs. 3RL), the thicker the line.

2. Round Shaders (RS):

These needles are also grouped in a round formation, but they are spaced further apart than liners. This makes them ideal for shading in small areas, some thicker line work, and creating soft, subtle gradients. They provide a gentler application of ink compared to liners.

3. Magnums (Mags):

Magnums are the go-to for shading and coloring large areas. They feature multiple needles stacked side-by-side in rows.

Weaved Magnums (M1):

Have two rows of needles with alternating lengths, perfect for blending and creating smooth, feathered shading.
Stacked Magnums (M2):

The needles are packed more tightly, making them excellent for packing in solid, vibrant color efficiently.
Understanding these basics is the first step.

The true artistry comes from knowing which needle to choose for the desired effect, and high-quality, reliable cartridges are a non-negotiable part of that process.