How does a tattoo machine work?

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The tattoo machine was invented by Samuel O'Reilly over a century ago. His machine was based on Thomas Edison's engraving "autographic" printer. In general the term "tattoo machine" is prefered in the US (and some tattoo artists have been know to get snippy if someone calls it a "tattoo gun").

There are several basic parts to a tattoo machine.

The sterilized needle is coated with tattoo ink which resides in the sanitary tube, and pierces the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) to leave ink in the dermis. The dermis does not shed like the epidermis, so the ink is permanently (albeit with minor fading and diffusion).

There are two types of needles: liners and shaders. Liners are used for, well, lines; shader are used for, well, you get the idea. When people refer to a tattoo needle, they typically mean a group of needles that are clustered together, as shown in this closeup. Needles are not hollow, like those used to for injection.

The electric motor provides the action to the machine. The motor uses electromagnetic coils to power the needles action. The needle penetrates the skin at a rate of about 80 to 160 times per second. The depth can be adjusted. The machine is turned on and off via a foot petal.

Buzzzzzzzz, you can spell it tatoo machine also.