Every tattoo artist aspires to be the best in town, and if you are one of those aiming for it, you should have a tattoo machine stencil machine in your toolbox.
What’s this stencil machine? As an artist, you can explore various designs putting them in paper form in a transfer paper. The paper is next fed into a printer, and, hence, you get a lovely design that can be used on the skin of your customer directly.
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best Tattoo Stencil Machine?
Now that we know the tattoo stencil machine’s importance, it becomes integral that we choose the best one available. Some key features include printing quality, quality of the material, accessories, machine weight, ease of use, and settings that help you make an informed choice.
#1. Printing Quality
The designs might look fabulous, and the creativity might be mind-blowing, but if this is not transferred to the end-user with quality, all your pain goes in vain.
Hence, the printing quality of the stencil copier is very important when you wish to buy a good piece of stencil machine.
A word of caution here, none of the stencil machines are cheap owing to the production costs involved, and it makes sense that you don’t want to waste your money buying a tool that doesn’t perform its functions well.
None of us want a machine that makes poor prints. Take your pick depending on your primary use—is it for styling, shading, etc.—and use it well to help you print your entire design without missing out on anything.
#2. Setting and Accessories
Many machines have some common settings with slight variations depending on the model. Any good-quality machine matches the needs for mirror, normal copy, deepness, etc.
All these machines are fitted with an error light that glows readily when facing any problems such as overheating or likewise.
There are a couple of machines that are available in the market at a lower price. But don’t be fooled by these products, as these stencil machines don’t come equipped with such settings.
#3. Quality Material
As we discussed, a range of models is available in the market prone to overheating during printing. Such machines are cheaper and made of poor-quality materials that don’t guarantee optimal performance or longevity.
Don’t pick products that make use of hot bulbs or rods as these don’t guarantee durability, and even if you use them for an average period, there are risks of overheating.
#4. Lightweight
A tattoo design might be simple or intricate, and hence, depending on the complexity of the tattoo, it takes greater or lesser time to finish up your artwork. Based on this, you might have to use the machine for long hours that might cause cramps and strains in your hands and wrist.
Some tattooists whose job involves extensive traveling to visit various clients and do beautiful tattoo ink designs.
So, it is natural that you don’t want a bulky machine that disrupts your work efficiency. The tool must also not be a burden to carry around everywhere you go, and else, it might affect your design performance.
All that you need is a compact machine that can be easily tucked inside the tattoo bag and packed away in a jiffy so that you can take it anywhere you wish to go with ease.
It is always better to check the weight of the machine before finalizing it for purchase.
#5. Easy to Use
You could be a novice artist, an intermediate, or an advanced tattooist and the ease of use varies depending on your experience level.
If you are a beginner, there are ample chances that you might be perplexed with the various settings, and the same is possible even if you are an expert tattoo artist.
Such problems become worse when the instruction booklet doesn’t specify the procedure that must be followed.
Most models have similar settings, and hence, they come with similar difficulty levels when operating them. Again, if you travel a lot, it is always better to have a light machine that is easy to set up, can be done rapidly, and can get the printing done immediately once you take out the machine.
Top 6 Best Tattoo Stencil Machine
Based on the key features that make any stencil machine one of the best ones available in town, I have summarized a list of the top 6 best tattoo stencil machines that meet your needs.
Life Basis Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Copier Printer
It is always better to mention the best machine as the first one. Undoubtedly, the Life Basic Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine is a versatile dot matrix printer that matches your thermal copier and tattoo printer machine requirements.
The model is very popular among professional tattooists. There are not one or two but numerous features that make it a good pick, the best of which is its profound functionality.
Using this machine, you can copy an already existing sketch design or print something digital.
Making a stencil is simple using this tool as the manufacturer has provided two modes, namely the mirror and the copy mode. If your work involves quite a lot of traveling, don’t worry about carrying the machine as it is lightweight (1.17kg) and compact. Hence, storing it is very simple and easy.
You might be a novice or a professional, but the machine is suitable for all as it comes with simple operations that work faster, thereby speeding up your design process.
Don’t worry about the durability or long-lastingness of the machine as the light bulbs and belts are of good quality. The manufacturer has done a good job providing an additional 10 sheets of paper for your stencil art and a USB cable.
Get a stencil transfer in just 60 seconds using the Life Basic Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine, but it is better to allow the machine to rest for some minutes after every 2 papers or so.
Pros
- A 2-year warranty offered on the product
- Easy to operate and simple controls
- Very lightweight, compact, and portable, easily fitting any workspace
- Good user reviews
- Highly compatible with A4 and A5 papers
- Various useful functionalities such as deep modes that help in defining lines according to your needs
Cons
- Not all stencil papers can be used with this machine
- You must put the machine to rest for a couple of minutes after doing 1-2 sheets
Check the Best Price on Amazon
Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier Printer
For those looking for a high-quality tattoo machine that assures durability, you can take a look at the Yilong Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Transfer Machine.
Use it to achieve perfection and elegance with tattoo designs rather than your free hand to draw, further instigating stress.
Like the model mentioned above, this machine also assures you a dual functionality of doing both normal copy and print designs to do tattoo stencils. The main advantage here is that you needn’t bother doing the sketch manually to get the stencil transfer done.
The machine is made of ABS plastic, making it highly sturdy and durable for use. The topmost benefit of this machine is that you can use the stencil machine from any corner of the world as it can operate at a voltage between 110V and 240V.
Such a varied voltage range makes it easier for you to use it without needing a voltage converter but start to copy and do stencil transfer using the transfer stencil machine.
The functionality of the Black Tattoo Transfer machine is commendable. The Mirror copy mode improves its functionality, thereby making it very easy to use it.
Don’t worry about flipping pages or designs, as you can accomplish everything with the press of a button. There are lights indicating power, error, and other essential functions, and the company has taken care to eliminate unnecessary power costs by excluding all unnecessary components.
Individuals love to use a machine that’s easy to handle, and this model doesn’t disappoint you as it is simple to use.
You must insert the paper and press the start button, but it is better to hold the paper lightly to help you insert and take out the paper. A4 and A5 papers are good to use with this model, and you can be assured of a classic print using carbon paper.
Pros
- Easy to use and noiseless operation
- Rapid transfer printing speed
- Lightweight and portable
- A range of functionalities offered
- Generates low heat
Cons
- Confusing instructions
- Several unlabeled buttons are present
Check the Best Price on Amazon
Atomus Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Copier Printer
It is always better when a professional makes your equipment, imparting its design knowledge and ease of use. The Atomus Stencil machine is made by a tattoo equipment manufacturer and guarantees excellent design and performance.
There are numerous functionalities included in this tattoo thermal transfer machine, and hence, top results are simply undeniable.
You are guaranteed excellent work efficiency, but the machine doesn’t heat up despite repeated use. Do various things using the machine as the product is designed with utmost efficiency.
Apart from the functionalities, you are given ample information and details regarding the transfer machine. Such detailing and knowledge imparted to us are greatly helpful in deciding whether or not the product is compatible with your purpose.
In terms of looks, the machine is available in both black and white color. Using the machine and performing various operations are simple as a dedicated button indicates every functionality. Hence, you needn’t have any confusions regarding which button is for which purpose.
Use the machine to make a print resolution, copy method, and design deepness without overheating issues as the machine indicates wiring short circuit or great damage.
The kit includes a stencil copy machine, an instruction manual, and a standard power cable. The product comes with a 1-year warranty and a warning that the company has tested the machine multiple times and might look used.
Pros
- Easy to use and affordable pricing
- Lightweight and compact
- 100% moneyback guarantee offered
- Ample information available about the machine
- Effective and rapid transfer speed
Cons
- No parts available for replacement
- Paper jamming is possible sometimes
Check the Best Price on Amazon
Zinnor Portable Tattoo Transfer Copier
Just like every other machine mentioned here, this is a thermal copier and printer machine. Once you know the results produced by this piece of equipment, you would be happy to realize that the results are just as you expected or beyond your expectations besides providing a quicker tattoo stencil.
So, what makes this product different from other machines? It’s mainly the construction that involves ABS plastic which guarantees maximum durability and longevity of the machine.
Also, the scanning resolution helps deliver an impeccable high-resolution print which, along with the Deepness setting mode, helps gain an accurate and precise tattoo design.
Operating the stencil machine is extremely simple as it comes with dedicated control buttons that require no haphazard handling or fumbling over any parts of the machine. The product is provided with a LAN button, power button, cancel button, and feed button.
As you needn’t replace the machine frequently, it could be termed an environment-friendly product that’s extremely advantageous to both the environment and yourself. Needing no use of bulbs, inks, or other replaceable parts, the machine lasts longer than expected, especially without the need for any maintenance.
Pros
- Moneyback guarantee
- Durable and easy to operate as the machine has dedicated buttons for various functionalities
- Low maintenance and noiseless operation
- Fine print resolution
- Compatible with A4 and A5 paper
Cons
- Not suitable for complex shadow patterns
- Priced quite higher comparatively
Check the Best Price on Amazon
BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
Copy extensive and detailed designs quickly and efficiently, using the BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine. Hence, it is no surprise that the model is highly appreciated by tattoo professionals and artists worldwide.
Multiple features make this piece of equipment highly sought after by all. Firstly, the machine is lightweight, weighing only 3.5lb, making it very convenient to carry it around anywhere.
Take the machine, store it in your carry case, and be off to any place working wonders on your customers’ skin.
But, remember that this machine is not adaptable for doing complex shadows but helps you do only single effects on any design. Try your hands at doing simple patterns and lines that come out well using this stencil machine.
The manufacturer has done a good job designing the machine as it needs no replacement parts, bulbs, cylinders, heating elements, or expensive parts. Hence, there are no excessive maintenance costs involved in keeping the product in tip-top condition.
Different buttons help you perform various functionalities, and this way, you are guaranteed ease of use. In case of any errors, the machine comes up with an ERROR light helping you stop the stencil process instantly.
Pros
- Lifetime technical support provided
- 18 months warranty
- 90-days moneyback guarantee
- Affordable pricing and good working methodology
Cons
- Not suitable for patterns with complex shadows
- Problems with overheating
Check the Best Price on Amazon
BIOMASER Tattoo Transfer Machine
The BIOMASER tattoo transfer machine is lightweight, reliable, and simple, making your thermal stencil copy process easy and authentic without any glitches.
Weighing only 3.5lb, the stencil maker copier is very easy to carry, making it convenient for all your travel requirements. Using a voltage between 100 and 240V, the transfer machine is compatible to use anywhere in the world.
Choose your design and be awed by the effects as the stencil maker produces clear, smooth, and accurate patterns. But, you can’t use this machine to do complex shadows as it works best when you try simple lines and patterns with single effects.
Be free of hand-related injuries and pains using this stencil maker machine as you are guaranteed excellent printing speed, complicated designs can be done without straining your hands doing free drawings, and it comes with a stable performance.
With noise, minimal vibration, and low heat, the brand guarantees optimal performance for all tattoo artists, making it a popular choice.
Different settings can be chosen—mirror copy, normal copy, photo, and two deepness settings that help you achieve different design requirements.
Pros
- 18 months warranty
- A 90-day moneyback guarantee offered
- Lightweight and compact
- It comes with a carry case
- No issues with overheating, noise, or vibrations
Cons
- Not optimal to use for patterns with complex shadows
Check the Best Price on Amazon
What Are Tattoo Stencils?
As the general meaning of the word ‘stencil,’ a tattoo stencil is a paper printout that contains various designs that can be transferred onto the customer’s skin.
It is always easy to come up with a beautiful design with a lovely outline, and a tattoo stencil does this for you. It exists as your primary outline that helps in delivering the same image to the skin.
Some professionals start to work on the client’s skin from scratch, outlining and then filling it with various designs. But, most times, professional artists use tattoo stencils to replicate the design as it is with utmost precision onto the client’s skin.
Freehand drawing is fun and portrays your talent, but it is not always efficient. Some artists also trace the design on the stencil transfer paper using their freehand, but this also takes time. Though both these ways are interesting and accepted, they don’t promise the desired results expected from your clients or you.
Using a stencil gives you the exact design of your liking existing as a permanent ink that helps you achieve the design that exists in your mind. Hence, on any given day, it is a better option to use.
A good thermal transfer machine never compromises the results and aids in your design work by using high-quality stencils.
Can You Use a Thermal Printer for Tattoo Stencil and How?
Yes, you can use a thermal printer for tattoo stencils, but if you wonder how a couple of basic steps must be followed while using a printer for stencil work.
- Firstly, have a thermal tattoo stencil paper of any choicest tattoo printer paper that’s available.
- You must have two sheets of paper, the stencil paper, and the carbon paper. For this, you must remove the second layer that exists as protection and the yellow bottom layer
- Now we are ready to insert the paper onto the machine. Lift the flap of the stencil-making machine, and then insert the thermal tattoo transfer paper. The connecting end remains hanging out of the flap while the open part that’s larger hangs on the other flap. At any time, ensure that the tattoo transfer paper remains at the bottom.
- It’s time to choose your preferred settings now but before that, switch on the stencil transfer machine.
- Once you get the design print out, it can be fed into the copying slot where the print is kept right in front of the opening flap. For getting all details onto the paper, the print must be kept face down to help the stencil machine capture all the available details.
- Now it’s time to press the start or normal copy button and then witness the amazing design coming onto the paper in an instant
- Take out the stencil, make a precise cut of the design to the exact size
- You are now all set to use it on anyone’s skin or any other canvas
How to Transfer the Stencil’s Design to the Skin?
Once the stencil design is ready to use, all that remains is to transfer the image onto the client’s skin and enjoy the euphoria of precision and accuracy. Follow the simple steps given here to do it:
- Before doing anything, it is always essential that you prepare the area that would be tattooed. The first step includes transferring the stencil; hence, the skin needs to be ready for this even before you do the first step. Any tattoo looks nice and bright when the area on which the design is imposed looks clean. So, shave the area thoroughly and sterilize the skin.
- Dry the cleaned area, after which you can apply stencil solution over it. Make optimal use of the solution, applying enough to cover the entire area but not overdo it. Otherwise, it prevents the ink from spreading smoothly. Allow it to dry for a few seconds.
- When you are all set with the stencil fluid nicely in place, it’s time to keep the stencil on the skin. Place the side which has the inked face down on the skin. Give a little pressure by softly pressing it with the help of a tissue. Continue doing this for some seconds.
- You can now lift the stencil and what you see on the skin is the exact design print available in the stencil. Leave it alone for a while without touching it to allow the design to dry neatly.
- Once you are sure that the area is thoroughly dry, you can start your tattooing work and add much beauty and colors to it.
