needles

[oz tattoo]

I've been tattooing for about 6 months now & I use primarily 7,8, & 9 rounds for lining AND for shading. I've tried some round shaders & just didn't like them as well- I prefer to stick with my 7,8 or 9 and just use diluted inks. I've also used 7 & 13 mags to fill in color, and didn't really dig on those a whole lot either. Can you all give me some of your own preferences- I know there is so much more out there, but it's hard to stray from your comfort zone- especially when money & artwork is on the line....

[theprofessor]

I normally use 5,7,8 for lining depending on the style of tattoo I am doing. Normally use 5 or 5 tights. I have been using 8 & 14 rounds for color and just recently started trying out 7 mags. Have not got the greatest grip on them but love then for gray work. I have started trying different tapers of needles too see what differance I can get. I have noticed the bugpin needles are different and give me a good soft dispersion with gray work. Does anyone else know about the different size and taper needles and the different effects you might get?

[voodoo]

heres what i've got so far: short taper(bullet nose) needles r used for shading, while long taper needles r for lining.
the larger the gauge needle the bigger the 'whole' in the skin will be made.
wich will recieve,if u will more ink.