Holding a tattoo machine isn’t natural at first. Grips are thick, machines vibrate, and your fingers don’t know where to go. Hold it wrong, and your lines wobble, your depth is off, and skin takes the hit.
Basically, knowing how to hold your tattoo machine is one of the fundamentals of tattooing. You can check out other fundamentals of tattooing here.Opens a new window
At any rate, here's how to hold your tattoo machine right.
Hand Position
Every artist has a slightly different grip. For beginners, this works best:
- Hold like a thick pencil. Not a hammer. Not a gun. Pencil.
- Middle finger on the cartridge. Don’t just grip the tube. This gives control.
- Light contact with skin. Pinky or heel of hand can rest for stability.
- Relax. Death-grip = shaking + fatigue.
If your machine has a clip cord or RCA cord, let it go over your arm, not under. Coils on coil machines should rest comfortably on the back of your hand.
Machine Angle
Needles need the right angle. Too shallow or too vertical = bad lines.
- 65–85° is the most common range. Anything below 45° has potential to cause excessive skin trauma.
- Choose shallower angles for shading.
- Go closer to 85° for big needle groupings or lining.
- Check needles before starting. Bent or dull needles ruin work even with perfect technique.
Holding a Coil vs a Rotary Machines
Different machines feel different, particularly if they're built entirely differently, like a coil and a rotary. Your grip should (and will) adapt accordingly.
Coil Machines:
- Heavier, more vibration.
- Rest the back of the machine lightly on your hand for support.
- Angle slightly more upright for lining.
- Cord goes over the arm, not under.
Rotary Machines:
- Lighter, less vibration.
- Hold closer to the grip, so it's easier to float the needle
As far as angling your machine goes: Adjust slightly (between 65 and 85 degrees) based on your needle grouping and body area, but you’re working with the same general goal whether it’s a coil or rotary.
Stability for Lining
Even with the right grip, steady lines need anchors. Three points work best:
- Elbow on table or against ribs.
- Wrist against skin.
- Pinky/ring finger as a guide.
This reduces shake. Glide along the skin with a little Green Glide if you want, but don’t get it on your gloves.
Grips and Comfort
Small grips = cramped hands = shaky lines. Fix it:
- Use thicker grips or wrap disposable grips with paper towels + tape.
- Thicker grips = less vibration, less fatigue, more control.
Needle Depth
- Don’t press hard. Let the needle do the work.
- Linework: 1–2 mm protruding is usually enough.
- Wrist and finger positioning manage depth more than force.
Quick FAQ
Do you hold it like a pencil?
Yes, thick pencil, support on cartridge, light skin contact.
Press hard?
No. Guide, don’t push.
Push or pull?
Your choice. Comfort + control matter.
Practice?
Practicing on fake skin, like those by A Pound of FleshOpens a new window, helps build your skills when it comes to holding a tattoo machine right.
Get A Grip on Your Machine
Steady hands come from grip, angle, and anchors. Thick grips help. Angle the machine right. Keep points of contact. Relax.
You can check out our selection of tattoo machines here.Opens a new window
