Drawing a tattoo on the skin using a tattoo machine is much more difficult than drawing on paper. Thus, even the best of artists can make mistakes while tattooing from looking at a reference picture of the tattoo. To avoid this, many artists take the help of a stencil machine.
A stencil machine allows the artist to put a copy of a tattoo on the skin before inking it. This has two major benefits. First, it becomes a lot easier to ink a tattoo directly on its copy on the skin. Hence, providing a more precise and neat-looking tattoo. Second, the customer can view how the tattoo will look on their skin and can adjust the tattoo as per their choice before it is finally inked.
Therefore, a stencil machine is a piece of equipment every tattoo artist must-have. Finding a good stencil machine can be difficult as there are just too many options to select from. Thus, we have created a list of the best tattoo stencil machines review to make this task less complicated for you. Besides that, we have added some relevant information that might be of great benefit to you.
Page Contents [hide]
- What are the benefits of using a tattoo stencil machine?
- 10 Best Tattoo Stencil Machines Reviews
- Best Choice- Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Copier Printer
- Most Portable – Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier Printer with Bonus Papers
- Most Easy to Use – Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine Thermal Tattoo Kit Copier Printer Thermal Printer for Temporary and Permanent Tattoos Free 10pcs Tattoo Stencil Transfer Paper Silver Update Version
- Best Features – Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine Thermal Tattoo Kit Copier Printer Thermal Printer for Temporary and Permanent Tattoos Free 10pcs Tattoo Stencil Transfer Paper Black Update Version
- Best Price – BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier for Printing and Transferring The Tattoo Designs Picture onto The Skin of The Person Getting The Tattoo
- Most Precise Stencils – BIOMASER Tattoo Transfer Machine Tattoo Printer Drawing Thermal Stencil Maker Copier For Tattoo Transfer Paper Supply
- Best for Beginners – TATELF Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier Stencil Printer for tattooing Artists Tattoo supplies(Black)
- Best Durability – Tattoo Stencil Printer BMX Tattoo Transfer Machine Maker Thermal Copier Stencil Printer for tattooing Tattoo supplies
- Best for Professionals – Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier New Portable Tattoo Printer Machine Thermal Stencil with Little Noisy Sound Black(Upgraded Version)
- Most Versatile – Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine, CINRA Black Tattoo Transfer Printer Machine Thermal Stencil Copier Printer with Tattoo Transfer Paper for Tattoo Supplies
- What are the types of transfer paper?
- Factors to consider while purchasing a tattoo stencil printer
- FAQs
- Conclusion
What are the benefits of using a tattoo stencil machine?
Before getting to know what are some of the best tattoo stencil printers available, first, you must understand why a tattoo artist should have a tattoo transfer printer in his or her parlor. There are several perks of using a tattoo stencil maker. Let us take a look at some of the benefits given below.
Saves time
No artist wants to spend most of his time working on just one tattoo. It can be frustrating for the artist as well as the customer. Plus, it will not be beneficial financially. There are some days when you have to work on simple and small tattoo work. On such days, you can get away with drawing a stencil tattoo by hand.
But on other days, when you have to work on complex and highly detailed tattoos, drawing by hand will waste a lot of your time. In such a case, a stencil machine will be your savior. This can create a stencil much faster than freehand. It will save a lot of time which you can invest in other different customers. Also, drawing a very detailed stencil can be a demanding task even for the best of artists. Thus, using it proves to be very beneficial.
Provides precision
When you are creating a stencil manually, chances are you can make mistakes or not be able to draw identical to the reference picture if it is highly detailed. Also, the customer might not feel satisfied with it.
Conversely, when you are using a stencil machine, precision is guaranteed. The stencil will be exactly what the customer wanted. After applying the stencil, tracing it over with tattoo ink becomes easier. Resultantly, the final tattoo looks clean, aesthetic, and precise. Therefore, you should get a stencil machine if you want to make tattoos more accurately. This is even more crucial for beginners as it makes it easier for them.
Easy to use
If you are concerned about how a tattoo stencil machine works, then there is nothing to be worried about. That is because stencil thermal transfer machines are very user-friendly and can be used by professionals as well as amateurs. One does not need to be a tech geek to know how to operate a stencil machine. Therefore, buying it will be a great decision.
10 Best Tattoo Stencil Machines Reviews
Best Choice- Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Copier Printer
This tattoo stencil printer is one of the best ones available in the market. The package consists of one piece tattoo thermal copier along with one power cable. With this machine, one can create stencils quickly and efficiently.
This tattoo machine can only be used to transfer lines and graphs, and it is not suitable for shading. You will receive a set of instructions along with the device, most of which are easy to comprehend and follow.
Why is it unique?
You can copy designs to the transfer papers and get them printed faster. It has a high printing speed, provides stable working, and does not produce noise. The device does not get heated up quickly. All in all, it has all the great features one would want from a tattoo stencil machine.
Buyer’s experience
Most of its buyers are satisfied with this tattoo transfer printer. They like the features of this machine along with the fact that it can be easily used. However, some of the customers weren’t happy with the quality of the machine.
Best fit for
This is one of the best tattoo machines you can buy. If you are looking to make tattoo designs, you should definitely give it a try. You can get the designs printed faster.
Pros
- This device can be used easily.
- It is worth the money spent.
- Having has good thickness and is sheer.
Cons
- The quality of the machine is not up to the mark.
Most Portable – Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier Printer with Bonus Papers
Next on our list is the stencil machine by Yilong. This machine is compact. Hence, it is much easier to carry around and requires less storage space. Overheating is also not an issue with this machine.
This tattoo machine is made of ABS material that is environment-friendly, safe, and durable. It allows you to save time as it does not require frequent adjusting.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo Copier allows you to copy designs on stencil papers effortlessly. It weighs only 1.6 kg and hence, it is highly portable. This machine enables faster printing without producing noise and getting overheated. The build quality of the material is also impressive. Remember to unplug it when you are not using it as it prevents damage.
Buyer’s experience
The buyers are very pleased with their purchase. This device allows them to print designs faster without any disturbance. They were surprised to find that this does not overheat like other stencil machines. It can be carried anywhere, making it an ideal device for everyone.
Best fit for
It’s a perfect machine if you want to make tattoos. This device allows you to print pictures perfectly in a matter of a few minutes. With its highly portable nature, it is recommended for people who may need to travel around the city to reach their clients.
Pros
- The device can be used easily.
- It comes in good packaging.
- This machine is quite thick and sheer.
Cons
- Some people have found it to be overpriced.
Most Easy to Use – Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine Thermal Tattoo Kit Copier Printer Thermal Printer for Temporary and Permanent Tattoos Free 10pcs Tattoo Stencil Transfer Paper Silver Update Version
This tattoo stencil transfer machine from Life Basis is one of the best you can find. It enables you to copy designs on stencil paper without wasting time. With its outstanding performance, it has become a highly trusted stencil machine.
The machine weighs less and allows you to print designs faster. It can be moved and stored anywhere easily because of its lightweight.
Why is it unique
This tattoo machine is one of its kind. It weighs around 1.7kg and can be used with both A4 and A5 papers. It is economically feasible as you won’t have to replace the machine, and ink is not required.
This Copier does not have bulbs, cylinders, and any heating elements and is different compared to traditional tattoo machines. The machine has two types of settings with different depths for piercing on the skin. Deepness one is for fine lines, and the second one is for the thick lines. Hence, it is more versatile.
Buyer’s Experience
The customers are satisfied with this tattoo machine. They love the strong, powerful Faulhaber Motor. Overall, the experience of the users with this machine has been very good. Although customers are not very pleased with the durability of this tattoo machine
Best Fit For
This tattoo machine is ideal for a tattoo artist who wants a machine with advanced features. This is lightweight, compact, provides different types of settings, and more.
Pros
- You can give them as gifts.
- It has good thickness and is sheer.
- The device is a good value for the money.
- It can be used easily.
Cons
- The tattoo machine is not quite durable.
Best Features – Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine Thermal Tattoo Kit Copier Printer Thermal Printer for Temporary and Permanent Tattoos Free 10pcs Tattoo Stencil Transfer Paper Black Update Version
Using this tattoo machine makes your life a little easier. You can copy the designs in a minute on both A4 and A5 sheets. This device is economical and does not need ink or any replacement of parts.
It is truly an amazing stencil machine. This all the features you need, a user-friendly design, fast performance, and no overheating problems. Additionally, on buying this machine, you get ten transfer papers free of cost.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo machine allows you to copy designs in a minute. It can transfer tattoos efficiently and weighs less. This device weighs 1.7 kg and can be moved and stored anywhere you want. The machine does not have any bulbs or heating machines. You have to clean the gears of the device frequently. An instruction manual comes in the package, along with a power cable and tattoo transfer machine.
Buyer’s Experience
Most of its buyers had only positive things to say about this product. Some of them have given excellent ratings and reviews about this product. It is quiet and offers you high performance. Thus, it is a highly recommended product.
Best Fit For
If you are a beginner or a professional tattoo artist, this is the perfect tattoo stencil transfer machine you can buy. It allows you to make stylish designs.
Pros
- This device is warm.
- It has good thickness.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive.
Best Price – BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier for Printing and Transferring The Tattoo Designs Picture onto The Skin of The Person Getting The Tattoo
BMX is one of the best manufacturers of tattoo transfer stencil machines. It is a well-known brand whose product you can invest in without hesitation. This device can be used to make simple tattoos with single strokes.
They can save you a lot of time. You cannot make tattoos with a complex design using this tattoo machine. It works efficiently in a voltage range of 100 to 240 Volts.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo transfer stencil machine allows the artist to make tattoos in a few steps. It has a weight of 1.6 kg, which is much less compared to others. The device has a fast printing speed along with no noise production and offering high performance. It has a warranty for 12 months. It is always advised to allow the machine to rest for some time after using it for a few hours.
Buyer’s Experience
The response of the buyers clearly indicates that it is a great product. It is worth the money spent and works just as promised. The product is a bit tricky to use, but it seems like a small drawback in front of its numerous brilliant features and performance.
Best Fit For
It is an ideal tattoo transfer stencil machine if you have a definite budget. The device is worth the money you spent. If you want a machine with good thickness, this is your device.
Pros
- The product has a good thickness.
- It is a good value for money.
Cons
- The process to make the tattoo is a bit tricky.
Most Precise Stencils – BIOMASER Tattoo Transfer Machine Tattoo Printer Drawing Thermal Stencil Maker Copier For Tattoo Transfer Paper Supply
The compact design of this tattoo transfer machine from Biomaster allows us to place it anywhere. It is a machine that works best in the voltage range of 100 to 240 Volts. Now, you no longer need to draw stencil tattoos by hand and let the machine do it for you in less than half the time.
Consequently, this tattoo machine makes life easier for tattoo artists; they can now make their designs easily, efficiently, and at a faster rate. It is made using high-quality materials and offers high performance.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo transfer machine is suitable for tattoos with a single stroke and not for complex designed tattoos. It has two levels of depth options available, one and two. You don’t have to adjust the machine, and thereby you can save time. Besides its great performance, it is also a reliable product so that the user can get the same great performance every time they use it.
Buyer’s Experience
Most of the buyers are highly satisfied with this tattoo stencil machine. They have liked the thickness of the machine. The stencil created by this machine is always clear and precise. Hence, tracing over the stencil is also easy. Plus, the product has a good price.
Best Fit For
This tattoo machine is a fit for anyone who wants to learn to make tattoos. It is light in weight and compact. Tattoos of single strokes can be made using this thermal copier.
Pros
- The machine is worth the money spent.
- It has good thickness.
Cons
- It is a little hard to load the transfer paper.
Best for Beginners – TATELF Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier Stencil Printer for tattooing Artists Tattoo supplies(Black)
Next on the list is this tattoo machine from Tatelf. To use this, one has to practice a little patience as sometimes it takes a few minutes extra to copy the designs. But the final result is totally worth the wait.
The machine is compatible with a voltage between 100 and 240 Volts. Creating stencils has become easier than ever with this stencil machine. TALEF produces stencil machines that generate minimum noise when operating. Hence, you can focus better even when the machine is working.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo machine weighs 1.6 kg and works efficiently. It does not produce any noise and offers a stable performance. This tattoo machine enables the person to copy designs in a few easy steps. It is not advisable to use it for complex designs. For the proper functioning of the device, you have to switch it off after using it for a few hours.
Buyer’s Experience
The buyers believe that this is one of the best stencil machines they have ever used. This tattoo machine has few good features that can attract customers. It comes packed well and is worth the money. The only drawback is that the device is a little slow.
Best Fit For
The tattoo stencil machine is perfect for your simple designs. If you are a fresher, you can use this device. Thus, it is recommended for amateurs when they are practicing. However, it is advised to draw on practice skin before drawing on human skin.
Pros
- People find this product worth the money spent.
- It works efficiently.
Cons
- It is a bit slow.
Best Durability – Tattoo Stencil Printer BMX Tattoo Transfer Machine Maker Thermal Copier Stencil Printer for tattooing Tattoo supplies
This tattoo machine enables professionals and other tattoo artists to copy their designs to stencil paper faster. If you get a huge number of clients in your tattoo parlor, then a fast stencil machine is no less than a boon.
For proper functioning of the device, it is advised to switch off the device after using it for an hour or two. It can show only a single effect and not complex designs.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo stencil machine allows you to copy designs in 3 simple steps. It weighs around 1.6 kg and has a high speed of transfer. The machine offers consistent performance with low heating and very few sound disturbances. In short, this is a machine any professional tattoo artist can trust.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers are happy with this tattoo transfer printer. They like the efficiency of this tattoo machine. It has a warranty of 12 months which gives them assurance that it is capable of delivering a desirable performance for a long time.
Best Fit For
This tattoo machine is perfect for making black tattoos. It gives strong and stable strokes. This device is not suitable for making complex designs.
Pros
- This tattoo machine can be used easily.
- It has adequate thickness.
Cons
- It is not worth the money spent.
Best for Professionals – Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier New Portable Tattoo Printer Machine Thermal Stencil with Little Noisy Sound Black(Upgraded Version)
Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier is made for a professional tattoo artist. It allows you to make the exact design you want which has to be transferred to the skin. The latest upgraded version of this tattoo machine prevents eating of your transfer sheets and weighs less.
It is a simple and reliable copier with a portable design. This is packed with all the features that a professional tattoo artist needs in his stencil machine.
Why is it unique?
This tattoo transfer Copier is built using ABS material. ABS material is environment-friendly, safe to use, and lasts a long time. This machine does not overheat quickly and does not produce any noises.
It comes with 5 buttons which can be used easily. The speed of transfer is impressive, and the transfer papers can be opened and closed quickly. It has two light indicators to show when the machine is switched on and off.
Buyer’s Experience
As per the buyers, the stencil this machine creates is flawless. Also, operating this machine is a breeze. Some of the customers have complained about the noise produced by the machine. But overall, it is a worthy investment of your money.
Best Fit For
This tattoo transfer machine is designed for a professional tattoo artist. If you are looking to make highly detailed and specific tattoos, this is the right machine for you. It is made of long-lasting material.
Pros
- It is a good value for the money.
- This tattoo transfer machine works perfectly.
- The machine is light in weight.
Cons
- It can produce noise when damaged.
Most Versatile – Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine, CINRA Black Tattoo Transfer Printer Machine Thermal Stencil Copier Printer with Tattoo Transfer Paper for Tattoo Supplies
This tattoo transfer stencil machine from Cinra is made of high-quality ABS material. It is durable and can last for a long time. This ABS material is eco-friendly and hence, preferred by many tattoo artists.
The tattoo machine is suitable for both beginners and professionals. You can have a good experience while using this machine. This Transfer kit comes with a tattoo transfer machine, one Transfer Paper, and an instruction manual.
Why is it unique?
For your tattoo machine to work perfectly, you should let it rest after printing 2 or 3 sheets to protect it from damage from overuse. This Copier is lightweight and small, thereby you can carry it anywhere you want.
It offers a stable function without producing any noise, and the body does not heat up fast. Thereby allowing you to improve your performance.
Buyer’s Experience
The majority of the buyers are satisfied with this product and have given good ratings and reviews for the same. With almost no noise while operating, this machine provides a more tranquil and calm work environment for the artist. The money they spent on this device is totally worth it.
Best Fit For
This tattoo machine meets the needs of both beginners and professionals tattoo artists. It allows them to make stylish designs in very little time. The machine functions perfectly.
Pros
- The device works perfectly.
- It is worth the money spent.
Cons
- There could be some issues with the heating of the device.
What are the types of transfer paper?
A transfer paper is the sheet of paper through which the stencil tattoo is transferred on the skin. When you get a tattoo stencil machine, your next priority should be getting a premium quality transfer. The quality of the transfer paper is a vital factor because you can only get the best results from your stencil machine when you have a good transfer paper. Additionally, applying a stencil tattoo using a good transfer paper is much easier.
There are two types of transfer paper present in the market, Hectograph stencil and thermal tattoo transfer paper. Appearance-wise, both types of transfer people look pretty identical. They have three layers of sheets, with one of them colored yellow. However, they are used very differently.
The hectograph stencil transfer paper is also referred to as freehand transfer paper. As the name suggests, this paper is used when you want to draw directly on the transfer paper. On the other hand, thermal tattoo transfer paper is the paper used with thermal tattoo printers. This information is enough for an artist to know what kind of transfer paper he should be buying.
Factors to consider while purchasing a tattoo stencil printer
The next important thing to know is what are the features to consider when buying a tattoo stencil machine. These are the features that will decide whether or not the unit you are choosing is worth it or not. So without further delay, let’s get straight to the point.
Image resolution
Image resolution is one of the most important to consider. You cannot ink the tattoo well if the stencil tattoo looks blurry and unclear. Therefore, a good image resolution of the machine is important. The recommended resolution for horizontal tattoos is 800 pixels or greater, while for vertical tattoos, it is 300 or greater. The higher the image resolution, the better will be the stencil and hence, an outstanding final tattoo. Thus, checking the image resolution of a unit is quite necessary.
Weight
Getting a lightweight tattoo stencil machine is very beneficial, especially for an artist who travels to numerous clients around the city. You would not want to carry around a machine that weighs too much along with many other pieces of equipment. Consequently, you must check the weight of the machine before buying it; otherwise, you may regret it later.
Quality of material
The quality of material matters a lot in almost everything one buys. You should ensure that you choose a unit that is built using only high-grade materials. A poorly made machine will become dysfunctional after being used for some time. Hence, increasing your expenses. It is better to get a machine that has higher durability and can continue to provide impressive performance for a long time.
Better dissipation of heat
Overheating can degrade the performance of any machine. Stencil machines can often overheat and fail to work. Therefore, you must get a machine that can dissipate heat quickly and does not overheat. You can refer to the customer reviews to check whether the machine can work for long without overheating or not.
Ease of use
A tattoo stencil machine should be easy to use. Make sure it comes with a user manual that is easy to understand and follow. If its working is too complex, then no matter how brilliant its features are, it is pretty useless for the artist. With a user-friendly design, an artist can get the best out of the machine and access its complete features. Thus, checking the user-friendliness of a stencil machine holds high significance.
Range of features
The next thing to consider is what is the range of features a machine is offering. The greater the range of features is, the better will be its performance. Its features include mirror stencil, normal stencil, deepness, and more. With a wider range of features, you can get a stencil of your choice.
Price
Due to the presence of so many tattoo stencil machines, it is hard to decipher which ones are worthy of their price. You do not want to get a machine that does not offer enough value for money. Therefore, you must compare several brands, their features, and performance to get a list of products you feel are worth investing in.
FAQs
How to prepare the skin before applying the stencil tattoo?
You cannot just paste the stencil tattoo on the skin, but first, you have to follow certain preparatory steps. After following these steps, applying a stencil tattoo will be easy.
The first step to do is to clean the area of the skin that is supposed to be tattooed. One recommended product to do so is the green soap solution. This solution has multiple benefits. It sanitizes the skin and also prepares it for shaving; that is our next step.
Shaving the skin is very important. This removes the hair that might otherwise come in the way of the stencil or the actual tattoo. After shaving, wash the skin again with the green soap solution to sanitize and remove any leftover hairs.
Then you need to prime the skin so that the stencil ink can stick better on the skin. This can be done by applying a moisturizer such as petroleum jelly or any other of choice.
What is a Tattoo Printer?
Tattoo printer is another name for tattoo stencil machines. Artists use this machine to make stencil tattoos. Among the various types of tattoo printers, thermal tattoo printers are said to be the most commonly used. This machine uses heat to create stencils and hence, the name thermal tattoo printers.
Using a tattoo printer is quite easy. Stencils created can be applied to the client’s skin and used as a reference when inking the actual tattoo. It is great for a beginner or any tattoo artist in general who has a hard time tattooing by looking at the picture of the tattoo. Thus, a tattoo artist should get this machine.
How to use the stencil tattoo printer?
The way your stencil tattoo printer works depends on its brand. A user manual will be provided that will contain all the steps and ways to operate the machine. However, almost every machine will have a similar process to the one given below:
The first step is a pretty obvious one, starting the machine. Connect it to a power supply and turn it on.
Get the transfer paper. It has three layers: yellow, brown, and a carbon layer. Open the lid of the machines and remove the middle brown layer of the transfer paper.
Now, take the yellow sheet and put it through the back end of the machine. The paper will insert in easily and reach the core of the machines.
Then you need to pull the yellow layer off the sheet and close the lid of the machine.
After closing the lid, turn the yellow sheet of paper in a way that it lies over the stencil machine.
Then you need to put the tattoo artwork you want to have a stencil off in the machine. The artwork should be facing down.
Now, press the copy button to start creating a stencil.
Once the copying process is complete, remove the carbon layer, and the stencil is ready to use.
How to apply a tattoo stencil on the skin?
Applying a tattoo thermal copier is a crucial process and needs to be done carefully. First thing first, you need to prep the skin for applying the stencil using the steps mentioned before that include cleaning, sterilizing, and shaving the skin.
Now, apply a tattoo lubricant of your choice. This is done to increase the adhesion of the skin so that the stencil can stick to it. Put the stencil in place and start pressing on it evenly for about a minute or two. Next, start removing the stencil paper slowly. Once the paper is removed, let the ink dry properly before you begin tracing it, and you are good to go.
Conclusion
Tattoo artists have to face high competition. Thus, having all the necessary equipment should be every artist’s priority. A best tattoo stencil machine is one vital part of a tattoo artist’s kit. It enables the artist to draw many precise and artistic tattoos. Additionally, it takes much less time than drawing a reference tattoo. Hence, you can work on more tattoos per day. Thus, if you do not already have a stencil machine, then it is high time that you get one. Make sure you consider the buying guide to find an ideal unit effortlessly.