Setting up my new Neotat

[Alie K]

Hello,
I have recently switched over from a very light rotary pen to the NeoTat. I want to make sure I am on the right page. I am a cosmetic tattoo artist, 90% of the work I do is medical restoration of the areola. Allot of these women have had radiation, always dealing with scar tissue, and keep in mind there are often implants (Breast). I have a few questions...

1) Long taper or Short taper? Why? (My goal is to cause as little damage to the skin as possible).
2) 7mag or 9mag? (Curved) #8, #10, or #12?
3) Running my power source continuously at 9?
4) Shepherd's loop (Top of needle) facing towards me or away from me? I have found this to differ on needles, does it matter?
5) Needles always below the needle bar?

Which stroke neotat did you get? Sometimes voltages are different between the stroke models. I find the shortest stroke to give the 'softest/smudgiest' look (though for someone used to a long throw, it can take a bit to get used to), while the longest stroke can give you some really nice textures and can be the easiest to line with.

I prefer 7's or 5 mags (straight, not curved) to get nice saturation in small areas. Some artists find that a round shader can give them the best saturation (some prefer 11round shaders for larger work, where a 5 or 7 round shader can be nice for detail). You may need to experiment a bit to find what works best for you.

Do you have a supply company that you will be purchasing needles from? Some suppliers will let you buy needles in sheets of 5 instead of a full box of 50. That can be a good way to try things out.

[Vallee]

Thanks Alie K. I got the purple packer, NEO P = LONG Stroke Machine (3.5 mm) - PACKER. I will definitely check out the different needle configurations. I am mainly working in the "round", pointillism and shading where it is needed. it truly feels like I am starting graduate school with this new machine. A little intimidating, however I welcome the new education that comes along with it... I appreciate your .positive feedback.