There are 2 main types of devices used for tattooing - a liner and a shader. What are the features of each of them?
What is a liner?
A liner is called a machine, the operation of which is based on a very rapid penetration of the tattoo element into the epidermis, which makes it possible to draw tattoos in the form of smooth, non-blurring lines.
The design of the liner is characterized by the presence of a stiff spring, as well as a small number of coil turns. The device has a relatively low weight and dimensions. The liners operate at a frequency of about 120 Hz. The key structural elements of the device - the firing pin and the saddle - are located at a distance of within 5 mm from each other.
Liners are typically used to inject pigment into the epidermis that is used as a tattoo outline.
What is a shader?
Shader is a machine, which is based, in turn, on the relatively smooth penetration of the tattoo element into the epidermis. This contributes, as many experts believe, to ensure a higher quality of the tattoo, despite the fact that the paint can be noticeably blurred when the shader is activated.
The design of the apparatus is characterized by the presence of a soft spring, as well as an increased number of coil turns. The shader is heavier and heavier than the liner. Apparatus of the corresponding type operate at a frequency of the order of 60-100 Hz. The head and saddle in the shaders are within 10mm of each other.
The shader is most often used to inject pigment into the epidermis to paint over tattoos.
Comparison
The main difference between a liner and a shader is in its purpose. The first type of tattoo machine is needed mainly for drawing the outlines of tattoos, the second - for painting them. The difference in the purpose of using the liner and shader predetermines the differences noted above between the devices in design and characteristics.
It should be said that both liners and shaders belong to the same class of tattoo machines - induction devices. In turn, there is another popular type of tattoo device - rotary machines.
In addition, there are tattoo machines on the market that combine the functions of liners and shaders. That is, they can be equally effectively used both for drawing the contours of tattoos and for painting them.
Having determined what is the difference between the liner and the shader, let's fix the conclusions in the table.
Table
Liner | Shader |
What do they have in common? | |
Both devices are related to induction tattoo machines | |
There are devices that combine the functions of a liner and a shader | |
What is the difference between them? | |
Used primarily to paint the outline of a tattoo | Used primarily to paint a tattoo |
Has small size and weight | Large size and weight |
Constructed with rigid spring | Constructed with soft spring |
Operates at 120-150 Hz | Operates at 60-100 Hz |
Has firing pin and saddle spaced within 5 mm each from each other | Has a firing pin and saddle spaced within 10 mm from each other |