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Choosing the right needle configuration can define the precision, texture, and overall finish of your tattoo or PMU work. Among the most popular options, the 3RL (3 Round Liner) and 5RL (5 Round Liner) stand out for their versatility. Both are essentials in any artist’s toolkit, but they serve different creative purposes. Understanding their distinctions will help you achieve sharper lines, smoother shading, and consistently flawless results.

What Is a 3RL Needle?

A 3 Round Liner (3RL) features three needle points grouped tightly together. This compact formation allows for a concentrated ink deposit, ideal for fine lines, calligraphy tattoos, and detailed stippling.

Tattoo artists love the 3RL for micro-line work and intricate designs, while PMU artists use it to craft natural hair strokes for brows or crisp outlines in lip blushing. It’s the go-to for projects that demand delicate precision.

TriFlat™: A Game-Changing 3RL Hybrid

Grip Needles takes the traditional 3RL to the next level with its TriFlat™ tattoo needles, a hybrid design that merges the accuracy of a round liner with the broader coverage of a flat needle.

Instead of a round cluster, the TriFlat™ arrangement allows multiple dots or fine lines in one motion, reducing the number of passes and minimizing skin trauma. Artists can complete sessions faster without compromising line quality.

This design is ideal for stippling, whip shading, pixelation, and textural effects like fur, scales, or wood grain. For PMU professionals, TriFlat™ needles deliver realistic hair strokes and soft gradients in eyebrow work.

TriFlat™ Needle Groupings

3RL/2 – Two 3RLs per cartridge; best for small-scale stippling and powder brows.

3RL/3 – Three per cartridge; great for hair-like textures and fur effects.

3RL/4 – Four per cartridge; ideal for simultaneous lines, veins, and large-area stippling.

You can find these 3-round liner needles online in both retail and wholesale quantities, making it easy to stock up on the best tattoo needles in 2026 from Grip.

What Is a 5RL Needle?

A 5 Round Liner (5RL) consists of five needle tips grouped tightly together, allowing for thicker, bolder lines and faster ink saturation than a 3RL. It’s a perfect balance of control and efficiency, delivering crisp results even in detailed work.

Recommended Uses

Permanent Makeup (PMU):

Brows: Great for powder brows and micro-shading on thicker or oily skin.

Eyeliner: Offers precision for both subtle lash enhancements and dramatic styles.

Lips: Creates soft, defined contours in lip blushing or full-lip color work.

Body Art:

Fine Details: Perfect for fine line tattoos, dotwork, and whip shading.

Micro-Realism: Lets artists build shadows and highlights for lifelike portraits and miniature designs.

Product Highlights

Grip Needles’ 5RL cartridges are built for long-lasting performance:

316 stainless steel for superior sharpness and corrosion resistance.

Medical-grade housing with soft membrane and backflow prevention.

6 mm long taper for smooth, consistent ink flow.

EO gas–sterilized and packaged with removable silicone sleeves (20 cartridges per box).

These tattoo needles by Grip maintain sharpness longer, helping you save on replacements while keeping every line clean and consistent.

3RL vs. 5RL: Which Should You Choose?

It depends on your goal:

Choose a 3RL for ultra-fine, detailed line work and precise stippling. The TriFlat™ 3RL is perfect for textural realism and speed.

Choose a 5RL when you need bold outlines, quick coverage, or smooth shading for brows, eyeliner, or detailed realism.

Many artists switch between the two mid-design to balance precision and density. It’s always smart to shop PMU needles in multiple configurations to stay flexible for any technique.

Pro Tips for Using 3RL and 5RL Needles

Stabilize Your Hand Use a low-vibration machine and rest your pinky on the client’s skin for steady strokes. A thicker grip helps reduce fatigue during long sessions.

Adjust Voltage

5–6v: Best for stippling and dotwork.

6.5–7.5v: For clean, crisp lining. Test on practice skin before working on clients to find your perfect balance.

Master the TriFlat™ 3RL For pixel shading and pointillism, this hybrid needle ensures even dot spacing and less skin trauma.

Build Layered Depth Change hand angles every few passes and use diluted ink to create gradient fades in dotwork.

Stretch the Skin Properly Maintain tension perpendicular to your needle path for cleaner ink flow and smoother lines.

Upgrade Your Toolkit with Grip Needles

Whether you prefer the finesse of a 3RL or the versatility of a 5RL, Grip Needles ensures both precision and performance. With advanced options like TriFlat™ technology, you can work faster, minimize discomfort, and deliver top-tier artistry.

If you want to ensure the quality of your output as a tattoo or permanent makeup (PMU) artist, one thing you can do is take a closer look at your tools, especially your tattoo needles. Besides considering factors like materials and configuration, you should also examine aspects of your needles, including their taper. Understanding this affects not only your process and overall efficiency but also how comfortable and safe your clients are throughout the procedure. This tattoo needle guide takes a close look at tapers and the role they play in your work as a tattoo or PMU artist.

What is a tattoo needle's taper?

Taper refers to the length of a tattoo needle's point. Different needles can have varying taper lengths—some have a long and gradual point, while others have a short and steep taper. Needles of the same configuration may even have different tapers; for example, 3RL needles can have short, medium, and long taper lengths. Taper is critical because it affects the needle's sharpness and the amount of ink it can deposit into the skin during use. 

How does taper affect tattooing?

Your tattoo needle's taper helps determine what styles and PMU procedures it's ideal for. Here are some of the ways the taper of your tattoo and PMU needles can influence your work:

Ink saturation

Long-tapered needles deposit ink gradually, so they're perfect for creating smooth shadows, gradients, and color transitions. This is why tattoo shader needles, which feature long tapers, are used the way they are. Short-tapered needles, on the other hand, tend to deposit ink more quickly, making them the best tattoo needles for creating bold, solid lines and packing color.

Skin trauma

A long taper prevents tattoo and PMU needles from penetrating too deep, making them gentler on the skin and preventing them from causing significant trauma. In contrast, short-tapered needles penetrate deeper and can cause more discomfort. Remember these, especially if your client has sensitive skin or your body art or PMU procedure involves skin areas prone to irritation.

Detail and precision

Shorter-tapered needles offer greater control and precision than their longer-tapered counterparts, so they're ideal for linework and detailed textures. On the other hand, longer-tapered needles do not create solid lines, but they're good for drawing soft shades and gradients. 

How do you choose tattoo needles based on taper?

When choosing tattoo needles for your artwork or PMU procedure, consider several factors, including the needle's taper length. Here are critical factors to remember:

Tattoo style

Tattoos with thick lines, such as traditional, blackwork, and calligraphy, are best done using needles with short tapers. Long-taper needles are well-suited for styles requiring fine lines and delicate shading, as well as PMU procedures that use stippling, such as powder brows and similar procedures.

Skin type

Different tapers may be compatible with certain skin types. Because of their ability to penetrate deeply, short-tapered needles are often preferred for tough and thick skin. Long-tapered needles cause less discomfort and scarring, so they're often used for thin, delicate, and sensitive skin.

Experimentation

Over time, you may develop a preference for specific tapers for certain techniques and procedures. Experimentation and continuous practice can help you understand how to maximize needles to do particular techniques and achieve your desired effects.

As a permanent makeup (PMU) artist, one of the most critical tools in your kit is the needle. To become proficient in your craft, you need to choose your needles carefully and be precise when using them. Unfortunately, many beginner PMU artists make mistakes that often affect the quality of their work's outcomes and even cause client discomfort. Let's explore four common mistakes PMU artists make when using PMU needles and how you can avoid them.

Using the Wrong Needle type

A frequent mistake is using the wrong type of needle for a specific procedure. PMU needles come in various configurations, including round liners, flats, and magnums, each designed for a particular purpose. For instance, a 3RL tattoo needle is ideal for creating fine lines and textures, while larger needles like magnums are often suited for shading and filling.

Becoming familiar with different needle types and characteristics is the best way to avoid this issue. Practice with different needle types to understand their best use and how they perform on the skin. Take advantage of available resources and guides, many of which are accessible on the Internet. You can also find reputable suppliers of PMU needles online that provide detailed descriptions of their products and how to use them.

Incorrect Needle Depth

Another common problem is failing to control needle depth properly. If the PMU needle penetrates too deeply, it can cause scarring, blowouts, excessive bleeding, and a prolonged healing process. It might also increase the risk of infections. Conversely, going too shallow may cause the pigment to not be implanted correctly, resulting in poor retention and incorrect or uneven coloration.

When working, pay close attention to your machine settings and practice maintaining consistent needle depth. Before working on clients, refine your technique using practice skins. Remember, different areas of the face may have varying skin thicknesses. For example, the skin on the lips is thinner than on the eyebrows. Thus, the ideal depth varies slightly depending on what procedure you're performing and which area you're working on, so continuous learning and practice are essential.

Inadequate Skin Stretching

Failing to stretch your client's skin adequately while working can lead to uneven lines and poor pigment implantation. Proper skin stretching ensures the needle penetrates the skin evenly and prevents the PMU needle from bouncing and creating jagged lines.

Always use one hand to stretch the skin tightly while using the other to guide the needle. This technique provides a smoother and more even canvas for the needle, allowing for more precise work. Practice this technique on silicone practice skins until you can do it comfortably and consistently.

Neglecting Needle Hygiene

Hygiene is paramount to any tattooing procedure, including PMU. However, some beginners may overlook proper needle hygiene, leading to potential infections and complications. Reusing needles, even on the same client, or improperly sterilizing equipment can introduce allergens, bacteria, and other harmful pathogens.

If you're using traditional tattoo needles, like needles on the bar, always sterilize them between procedures. Ensure your work environment is clean and that you follow all hygiene protocols strictly. When you shop for tattoo needles, online or otherwise, make sure to get them only from reliable suppliers that meet all safety standards.

Alternatively, use disposable PMU needle cartridges. These single-use products consist of a stainless steel needle and plastic housing. You can quickly attach and detach them from your machine and dispose of them in a sharps container afterward. They're also easy to obtain; reputable suppliers like Grip Needles offer high-quality PMU needles online with fast shipping.

As the primary tools for injecting pigment into the skin, tattoo needles are undoubtedly the cornerstone of the tattooing process. Understanding the different types of tattoo needles, their uses, and how to select them is crucial for delivering high-quality tattoos. This post covers the various tattoo needles available today and offers insights on how you can choose the best needles for your tool kit.

Professionals use a variety of tattoo needles

Tattoo needles come in various configurations, each designed for specific tasks within the tattooing process. Here are the most commonly used needle types:

Round liners (RL). These needles are tightly grouped in a circular pattern and create precise lines. A popular choice is the 3RL needle, which has three needle points. Round liners are ideal for detailed line work and small, intricate designs.

Round shaders (RS). Similar to round liners but spaced farther apart, round shaders are ideal for thicker lining, shading and filling small areas. They provide smooth and consistent coverage.

Magnum needles (MG). These needles feature two stacked or weaved layers of needle points arranged straight. They are perfect for covering larger areas and come in various sizes, allowing you to choose based on the space you need to work on.

Curved magnum needles (CM). These needles, also known as soft magnums, have a slight curve, allowing a more natural blending of colors. They are excellent for creating smooth shades and transitions between colors.

Flat needles (F). These are one row of needles arranged in a straight line and are used primarily for shading and color packing. They are particularly effective for bold lines and filling large areas with solid color.

Hybrid needles. Newer needles combine the characteristics of two or more standard configurations. These hybrids needle are designed for specific tasks or effects, such as increasing the efficiency and outcomes of particular techniques.

As tattoo styles and techniques evolve, new configurations will likely be invented over time. Staying updated on the latest developments and experimenting with different needle types will help you find what works best for you.

Choosing needles requires careful thought

Picking the right tattoo needles is crucial for creating the best artwork. When selecting tattoo needles for your tool kit, these are some of the key factors you should consider:

Tattoo Style and Technique

Different tattoo styles require specific needle configurations. For instance, delicate line work and detailed designs benefit from round liners, while bold traditional tattoos might require flat needles. If you specialize in styles that require smooth gradients and subtle transitions, such as portraits and realism, then consider adding mags to your kit.

Needle Cartridges

Consider using tattoo needle cartridges instead of traditional tattoo needles. These are pre-sterilized disposable tattoo needles that you can simply pop on and off your tattoo machine, allowing you to switch needles quickly and efficiently during a tattoo session. They also eliminate the need for constant sterilization, reducing the risk of contamination. 

Needle Quality

High-quality needles are essential for precision and safety. Get needles made from surgical-grade stainless steel, which are durable and resist corrosion. If you're using cartridges, ensure the housing is constructed from medical-grade plastic, which does not break easily and helps prevent cross-contamination.

Supplier's Reputation

Purchasing from the best tattoo needle suppliers ensures you receive reliable, high-quality products. Research and read reviews to find reputable suppliers who consistently deliver excellent needles. You can also buy tattoo needles online from stores like Grip Needles. When purchasing online, make sure to verify the authenticity and quality of the needles before making a purchase.

High-quality tools are among the secrets to producing the best outcomes in permanent makeup (PMU). No matter the procedure, using well-made, reliable PMU needles leads to optimal pigment deposition, precise lines, and a relatively comfortable experience for clients. Thankfully, the rapid growth of the PMU industry has also led to an increase in the number of providers of high-end tattooing supplies. 

PMU artists looking to shop for tattoo needles have no shortage of options, but some providers offer products that are simply a cut above the rest. Here are four of the top PMU needle manufacturers today and why you might consider adding their products to your kit:

Grip Needles

Grip is known for innovation, offering revolutionary products designed to enhance PMU artists’ precision, efficiency, and productivity. Their most in-demand offering is the TriFlat™ needle, a 3R/flat hybrid that allows artists to stipple more efficiently. They also carry the Triad, designed for single needle artists, is a 1RL/3 hybrid that improves stippling and pointillism work. 

Grip has very recently added standard configurations into their offerings, ranging from round liners to magnums, and will continue to expand their catalog with even more innovative products. Their needle cartridges are constructed from durable, high-quality medical-grade plastic and superior 316 stainless steel, ensuring they keep their shape, integrity, and sharpness over time.

Grip Needles is a relatively new brand, so their product selection may be less diverse than the other manufacturers in this list. Their products are also not the cheapest on the market. Still, if you place a premium on quality and are looking for new ways to improve your technique and output, Grip Needles' offerings might be exactly what you're looking for.

Tina Davies Professional

PMU needles by Tina Davies are renowned for their sharpness, which ensures precise and smooth pigment application. These needles provide consistent performance, which is critical for achieving uniform results. The brand offers a range of needle configurations tailored for different techniques, including microblading and machine work. All of their needles are sterilized and come in single-use packaging, ensuring maximum safety for clients.

On the downside, Tina Davies needles tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious artists. Due to high demand, these needles can sometimes be difficult to keep in stock, leading to potential delays in availability.

Overall, Tina Davies needles offer excellent value for money despite their higher price point due to their high quality and reliable performance. They make for a worthwhile investment if you prioritize producing top-tier results.

Kwadron

Their superb sharpness means Kwadron's PMU needles can smoothly and precisely apply pigment into the skin. They needles are built to last, maintaining their sharpness and integrity throughout the procedure. Kwadron offers their clients variety, with needle configurations suitable for different PMU techniques and skin types. Over the years, they have built a strong reputation for quality and performance within both the tattoo and PMU industries.

But like Tina Davies, Kwadron's needles are also on the expensive side, which can be a drawback for some artists. Some users report a slight learning curve when getting used to the needle's sharpness and performance characteristics. Nevertheless, Kwadron needles offer great value due to their exceptional performance and durability. While the initial investment is higher, the results justify the cost for serious professionals.

Bishop

As products of a meticulous manufacturing process, Bishop’s needles are known for their high and consistent quality. They are designed for precise and smooth pigment deposition, which is critical especially for PMU procedures were refined details are a must. Notably, Bishop considers their customers’ input to create products that can accommodate a wide array of PMU techniques.

Quality commands a high price, and this is true about Bishop’s offerings as well. In any case, Bishop needles offer excellent value for professionals who prioritize quality and precision. Although they come with a higher price tag, the investment is justified by their superior performance, making them a worthy choice for serious PMU artists.

Tattooing is an ancient art form that is so rooted in tradition. Even now, you'll find tattoo artists around the world practicing their culture's unique methods of drawing patterns on the skin, using techniques that have been around for centuries.

But like other art forms, tattooing continues to evolve with time, adopting innovations that make the process safer, more efficient, and better able to bring out artists' skills. In this post, we'll look at recent innovations that will likely introduce promising changes to the tattooing and permanent makeup (PMU) industries.

Wireless tattoo machines provide better control

Tattoo machines have been around for over a century, and they have only gotten smaller, more precise, and friendlier to artists' fingers. But until recently, they've required a cord connected to a power source, which could limit artists' movement and flexibility during use. 

Better batteries have made it possible to build tattoo machines that run without being constantly connected to a power outlet. With these wireless machines, artists can move the device more easily and freely around clients' bodies, reducing fatigue and enhancing precision.

Thinner needles could mean less discomfort

Tattooing involves pricking the skin with needles, so it's not always a comfortable experience, especially for people with low pain tolerance. The development of thinner tattoo and PMU needles could help minimize this discomfort.

This particular tattoo needle innovation can lead to smaller punctures on the skin and, thus, less trauma. Thinner needles can also produce thin lines, making them the ideal tattoo needles for professional artists specializing in intricate designs.

Biogenic inks give tattoos more meaning

So-called biogenic tattoo pigments are pushing the boundaries of what's accepted as natural ink ingredients. Conventional organic tattoo inks are often made from natural minerals and plant-based substances. Biogenic tattoo inks, on the other hand, may include human hair, ashes, and DNA. 

The idea may seem macabre initially, but incorporating human biological material into tattoos can result in profoundly personal and symbolic designs. For instance, someone may choose to have a loved one's ashes mixed into the ink for a truly unique and meaningful memorial tattoo.

AR gives clients a sneak peek

Tattoos last a long time, so it would help clients to know what their designs or desired procedures would look like on them beforehand. Advanced augmented reality (AR) technology makes this possible by showing clients how the finished tattoos will appear on their skin.

This innovation means clients no longer have to guess whether a PMU procedure looks good on them or whether a specific pattern suits their skin color and tone. They are less likely to regret their decisions and can request adjustments before the tattooing begins. It also makes it easier for artists to understand clients' preferences, leading to better communication and collaboration between the two parties. 

Hybrid needles improve artists' efficiency

The arrival of hybrid needle configurations is improving how tattoo and PMU artists work. One such hybrid is Grip Needles' TriFlat™, which combines the characteristics of 3RL and flat needle configurations. Like conventional 3RL cartridge needles, it can be used for lining, although it's much more versatile than that. 

The unique shape and design of the TriFlat™ enable artists to cover large areas with a single pass when stippling, allowing them to create multi-textural designs in less time. For tattoo artists, this makes drawing intricate textures like wood grain and fur easier. In PMU, the TriFlat™ shines in various procedures by cutting the time needed to create soft pixels and realistic hair strokes. Artists who want to try the TriFlat™ can get Grip Needles' sample box on their website.