Working with tattoos can be an exhaustive task that requires exceptional precision and skills to trace down the design a person needs, accurately. Often, many of the artists struggle to deliver exactly the design their client desires, or the one they have drawn on paper. Reason?

Drawing on a paper or showing pictures is much easier than using a tattoo gun to draw on the skin.
To save you from the potential risk of ruining a design and unpleasant clients, here is the collection of the best tattoo stencil machine. With these, you can easily trace the design on anybody almost flawlessly and also practice to your heart’s content to improve your brilliance.
Table of Contents
- What Are Tattoo Stencils?
- Comparison Chart Of Top 10 Best Tattoo Stencil Machine
- 10 Best Tattoo Stencil Machine Reviews
- 1. Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal
- 2. ATOMUS Thermal Copier Printer
- 3. YILONG Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
- 4. Life Basis Thermal Copier Printer
- 5. ZJchao Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
- 6. Biomaser Tattoo Transfer Machine Tattoo Printer
- 7. Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier
- 8. Tattoo Stencil Flash Thermal Copier Machine
- 9. BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
- 10. Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine
- What To Look Before Purchasing The Best Tattoo Stencil Machine
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. What Are The Benefits Of A Tattoo Stencil?
- 2. How Do You Use A Tattoo Stencil Machine?
- 3. What Is A Tattoo Transfer Paper?
- 4. How Do You Make Homemade Tattoo Stencils?
- 5. What Steps Should One Take Before Using Tattoo Stencils?
- 6. How To Transfer Tattoo Stencils To Skin?
- 7. What Kind Of Deodorant Can I Use For Tattoo Stencils?
- The Bottom Line
What Are Tattoo Stencils?
As its name suggests, tattoo stencil is an essential part of tattoo tools that are used by the artist to trace designs on the body. It was introduced to make the process easier for artists. While there are many who admire it, traditional artists don’t condone the use of stencils.
Over the years, tattoo stencils have evolved by many folds. Initially, they were made with plastic carvings and wax papers. In recent years, tattoo stencils have become very advanced with carbon copies and specialized printers.
Now comes what is the best tattoo stencil printer or copier machine? Can you use a regular printer for tattoo stencils? No, it is not easy to use a regular printer for tattoo stencils. Special machines are made for stenciling tattoos.
For different purposes, different tattoo printers are necessary. One can’t decide which tattoo printer is the best. In this article, you will learn about some of the most convenient stencils machines available in the market for you.
Comparison Chart Of Top 10 Best Tattoo Stencil Machine
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10 Best Tattoo Stencil Machine Reviews
1. Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal
There are many tattoo printers available in the market these days. One of the best Tattoo Printer For Tattoo Artists can be YILONG Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine Thermal Copier Printer. Some of the best features of this printer are:
Light Weight
One of the best features of this tattoo copier is that this printer is very lightweight. Since it weighs only 1.6 kgs or 3.5 lb, one can store it very easily. The compact design of this tattoo copier makes it highly convenient to store this device in congested spaces. This lightweight feature also allows one to use the device at any time and anywhere. The dimensions of the machine are 13.2 x 9.8 x 5.2 inches.
Great Speed
Tattoo printers are notorious for making noise and getting overheated. Another common complaint is their inconsistent speed. You don’t have to worry about any of these problems with the device because it gives a stable printing speed.
Additionally, it also maintains low noise and gives a stable performance. It can function adequately with the voltage of 100 to 240 v, and this setting ensures that you can use this product anywhere in the world as it complies with international voltage requirements. Thus, it is a highly compatible printer.
Durable
This tattoo printer is highly durable. It is made up of ABS material. The product is environmentally safe and durable for long use. Having a high-quality product means you don’t have to worry about investing in a new one anytime soon.
2. ATOMUS Thermal Copier Printer
Forget about the complexity of copying the designs and print out two designs at once with ATOMUS Thermal Copier. The stylish, black colored beauty is certainly a great addition to your tattoo tools for its quick print outs and easy maintenance.
Easy To Use
One of the main problems with tattoo stencil machines is that they can be hard to use and function. Most tattoo artists who are new to the profession do not like to use these machines because of their complexity. But this is not the case here. This product gives you the desired design in just a few simple steps.
Comes With Good Warranty
While most of the tattoo guns and machines can last years, stencil printers seem to be a more fragile part of the entire collection. In this case, a stencil printer that comes with one-year warranty coverage is a good thing. The company will take care of all the repairs and replacement for an entire year, saving you loads on investment.
Gives Clean Designs
You will get crisp and precise designs with this thermal printer. Whatever you seek to copy will be printed in the exact same design. You don’t have to worry about missing a line or a curve because the printing will be precise and highly specific.
3. YILONG Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
It is understandable if you can not invest heavily in a stencil printer right off the bat. For a beginner who is still trying to build trust with these devices, this one is a good selection. While it won’t be as robust in performance as the more-expensive counterparts, this one will certainly help you develop a knack for using the stencil printers. Standing at an affordable range is YILONG’s black tattoo transfer stencil copier, which simply gets the job done.
Gives Fine Resolution
One of the strengths of this product is the fine resolution it gives with each print. The tattoo stenciling you need will be exactly how you want. It has two modes: mirror copy and normal copy. Most of the time, people seek a mirror copy. Therefore YILONG makes sure that both mirror and normal copies are printed in high-quality resolution.
Adjustable Power Settings
You don’t have to buy various adapters or deal with complicated power settings with printer copiers. The voltage setting of this product is between 110 volts and 220 volts. These settings make sure that you will be able to use this product in international settings as well.
Easy to Use
Unlike complicated machines that come with 25 features and a long list of steps, the YILONG Balck Stencil Machine is very simplistic and uncomplicated. You don’t have to worry about being tech-savvy to operate it. The user manual that comes with the machine has a very comprehensible language.
4. Life Basis Thermal Copier Printer
Life Basis is bringing you one of the more efficient thermal copiers. As it is a thermal printer, you do not need ink for it to work. More importantly, the company cuts down all the unnecessary components like bulbs and such to reduce power consumption and to overheat and increase the performance. With this printer, you get:
Good Speed
Most of the stencil printers have trouble with printing speed due to the focus on several other functions. Sometimes it takes as much as 30 minutes just to print tattoo outlines properly. But with this machine, You can get crisp and clean prints in just a matter of minutes.
Light Weight
This stenciling machine weighs just 4.4 pounds. If you have any assignments outside your studio or you are someone who likes to shift frequently, then this product is the perfect fit for you. People often confuse lightweight machines as being inefficient, but this is only a misconception. The Life Basis Thermal Copier Printer is lightweight, but at the same time, it is very sturdy and effective.
Highly Economical
You do not have to invest in additional components like ink and bulb any more. Thus, This stenciling machine is fully sufficient in itself. You just have to use thermal paper, and it will carry out its task. There will be only the one-time cost of purchasing this machine.
5. ZJchao Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
Now here is a tattoo transfer stencil machine that is slick, highly portable, and very convenient to use. You don’t even have to waste time drawing a design on the paper first. All you need to do is connect the USB port, copy the design, even from the internet, and print it with this stencil printer.
Easy To Operate
ZJchao printer is just as easy to use as it is attractive. Instead of 10s of buttons and hard instructions, It has just 4 touch buttons that are used for different functions. The indicator light on these buttons helps the user in learning the status of the printer. There is a cancel button, wireless LAN button, power button, and a feed button.
Advanced Features
There is a USB cable that comes with the device. This USB cable and compatibility ensures that your printer gets easily connected with the computer or laptop. You can connect the printer with Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7. It is compatible with iOS 9.0 or above or Android 4.0 or above. You can additionally also get wireless printing done with the help of the machine.
Energy Efficient
There is a sleep feature that switches off the device if there is a lack of activity for more than 3 minutes. With the help of the sleep feature, you will be able to save electricity, and you don’t even have to worry about switching off the machine because it will be automatically switched off when not in use.
6. Biomaser Tattoo Transfer Machine Tattoo Printer
The BIOMASER Tattoo Transfer Machine is one of the best thermal printers for tattoos for drawing lines. It is a fantastic printer for copy-pasting the lines. If you’re a tattoo artist who only seeks guidelines in the form of lines and wants to do the rest of the work by yourself, this is the choice for you. This small yet lightweight and powerful device has plenty of fascinating features such as:
Fine resolution
The BIOMASER Tattoo Transfer Machine Printer comes with the capability to print fine resolution and clear linear prints and transfer lines. This Printer may not be suitable for shadow lines, but overall, it gives an excellent resolution when it comes to printing transfer lines.
You can get both mirror copies and normal copies with this printer. Other than this, there will be options for two-level deepnesses at level 1 and level 2. These settings can help you attain perfect stencil copying.
Lightweight and Easy to use
This thermal copier weighs just 1.6 kgs. The construction material used here is ABS material, which makes it highly durable and strong. You can get exceedingly fast transfers with this tattoo printer machine. There won’t be any loud noise or excessive energy consumption to give you desirable results. The two light indicators will inform you about the status of your printing process.
Comes with Warranty
When a product comes with a warranty of 18 months, this makes the user feel relaxed in terms of not worrying about repairs or exchanges. If you are not happy with your purchase and feel it does not align with your needs, then make sure you can also get your product returned within 90 days and get your money back.
7. Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier
You can ask seasoned tattoo artists about what consists of the best Tattoo Transfer Machine, and they will answer efficiency and simplicity. Today the market is brimming with machines that are claiming to have a myriad of advanced options.
But often the problem with these machines is that under the pretense of having advanced features, these machines undermine the actual work that they are supposed to do that is: tattoo transferring. The Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier is one such product that is uncomplicated and simplistic and enables excellent tattoo transferring.
Easy To Use
One USP of Zinnor tattoo copier is that its transfer paper is very easy to close and open. This feature helps in keeping the paper in order. Additionally, two light indicators show if the machine is working properly or not.
If this copier is about to get overheated, then you will also be informed about the same through the indicators, and this will help you in preventing overheating to reach an obstructive level. The 5 keys and buttons mentioned on the machine will help you choose options like copy method, resolutions, deepness, amongst other specifications.
Durable
The device is made up of ABS material that makes the product environmentally safe and also makes it durable for a long time period. You don’t have to keep replacing or repairing tattoo copier machines because this product will last for a long time.
Fast Transfers And Less Noise
Unlike bulky and complicated tattoo transfer copiers, the Zinnor Tattoo Transfer Copier gives fast transfers without making any noise. With this product, you can practice the art of tattooing even late at night without disturbing anyone.
8. Tattoo Stencil Flash Thermal Copier Machine
It can be a laborious task to find the right thermal copier for your stencils. Have you been busy scrolling through tattoo stencil printer reviews, but you didn’t find anything that confirms what you are seeking? You can simply pick Tattoo Stencil Flash Thermal Copier Machine by united tattoo supply.
Hassle-Free Usage
The one thing that makes this product unique is its efficient functioning. The reliable and easy operation of this device means that even those who are not seasoned tattoo artists can work with Flash Thermal Copier without worrying about complicated designs and features. Another factor that makes the usability of the device easy is the fact that it can work completely well between 110v or 220v.
Compact Design
One of the recurring and major problems with tattoo copiers is that they are bulky and lack compactness. This discourages people from purchasing because people don’t want to hoard a machine that takes up too much space. Since this printer just weighs 3 lbs and has a compact design, you don’t have to worry about making additional space for the product.
Economical
First of all, it works with A4 and A5 sized papers, so you don’t have to waste time and money to search for custom-sized paper, nor do you have to manually cut them. As it does not use an element, it will reduce power consumption. There isn’t a bulb or any other unnecessary component that would require replacement, either. Overall, it is a highly feasible investment.
9. BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine
Sometimes, it is hard to find a machine that would work well in different areas. Some are good in shading, and others are good at replicating the linings. BMX attempts to offer you the versatility of both of these functions. Therefore, it is a stencil printer that can offer you lines and depth for your tattoo requirements.
BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine is here to give smooth and seamless results to all the tattoo lovers. Additionally, it is a thermal machine that uses light and heat to transfer and print on paper. Overall, it is the most flexible option on the list which offers:
Quick Results
BMX Black tattoo copier machine allows the tattoo artist or professionals to copy designs onto stencil paper without any complicated method. By following a few simple steps, you get your desired design.
Advanced Features
The product has a fast transfer printing speed. This product also includes low heat and makes low noise. It additionally gives stable speed, which leads to clear prints. The machine is compatible with the voltage of 100-240v.
User Friendly
It is a user-friendly product that is very easy to use. The machine only weighs 1.6 kg/3.5 lb, which makes it easy to carry around. The classic black design of this product will suit every interior.
Comes With A Warranty
If you are not happy with the product, you can initiate an exchange or replacement. BMX Black Tattoo Transfer Stencil Machine comes with a 12-month warranty, which makes it a reliable purchase.
10. Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine
Tattoos are something that is very personal for an individual. When a person plans to get inked, a tattoo artist has a duty to deliver to their expectation and retain the faith of their client. Thus, you may feel the pressure to do the job accurately, and this is where Life Basis’ tattoo stencil machine comes to your rescue.
Life Basis Tattoo Stencil Transfer Machine is a great choice for anyone who seeks tattooing as their passion.
Focuses On Detail
Life basis tattoo transfer machine focuses on the sharpness and detail of the tattoo. It allows you to easily copy designs into stencil paper in just a few steps without any hassle. A non-time-consuming method is excellent for fast results giving you a detailed, seamless design.
Easy To Use
The weight of Life Basis thermal tattoo transfer machine is just 1.17kg. Other than that, it needs no cylinders, bulbs, and heating elements. The machine is super lightweight. It can fit into any place like the desk, counter, etc. It is also convenient to carry while traveling.
Affordable
The product is very economical as compared to other tattoo transfer printers on the list. It gives you the facility to trace the design in any A4 or A5 sheet. Not only this, but the device also does not require any additional tool, equipment, or ink. The availability of one year warranty also makes the product a lucrative and safe purchase.
Comes With Accessories
Life basis thermal tattoo transfer machine comes with an English instruction manual, power cable, 10pcs thermal transfer paper, and 500 digital patterns in the package.
What To Look Before Purchasing The Best Tattoo Stencil Machine
Buying a tattoo stencil machine is not an easy task. It is important to consider several factors before confirming your purchase. Here are some factors that you should consider before finalizing which machine you want to own:
- Image Resolution
Having clear image resolution is very important for a tattoo scanning. A good tattoo stencil should have a resolution of at least 800 pixels when it comes to horizontal designs and 300 pixels when it comes to vertical designs. If a stencil machine does not work within high-quality resolutions, then it is practically useless.
- Weight
If you are an artist who travels a lot, then you need a printer that won’t weigh you down. Most of the artists face the problem of a heavyweight device and put up with it due to the performance.
But this stencil combines robust performance and precision with an exceptionally lightweight model. Hence, it weights less than 5 lbs and becomes easy for you to carry anywhere.
- Durability
Make sure that you are buying a stencil machine that is rustproof is resistant to corrosion and comes with a warranty. Having an ABS material base is a good choice.
- Quality
Before buying any product, the quality marker is the most important thing that people consider. One should look for consumer reviews and ratings to see if the previous buyers are happy about the product. The availability of a warranty is also a sign of a high-quality product.
- User Friendly
A major sign that decides whether the product is worth buying or not is the user-friendliness of a product. One must look for a product that is easy to use and does not come with a ton of confusing features.
- Price
It goes without saying that price is one of the most important determiners when it comes to making a purchase. You can find a high-quality tattoo stencil machine between the range of 100 US dollars to 200 US dollars.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Are The Benefits Of A Tattoo Stencil?
There are many benefits to a tattoo stencil. The first and foremost one is that it helps in maintaining the accuracy of the design. Sometimes we imagine a design and even show it’s an exact photo to the tattoo artist but can’t get the design replicated.
Tattoos are a permanent thing, which means that one can’t risk getting inconsistent designs. There is no redo option when it comes to tattooing. Using a tattoo stencil to trace the exact design helps us in ensuring that no mistakes are made.
Secondly, tattoo stencils make sure that even people who do not expect artists can get their favorite tattoo designs without messing up. Stencils are particularly helpful when it comes to making designs that need symmetry.
2. How Do You Use A Tattoo Stencil Machine?
Every tattoo stencil machine has a different set of directions to use. It is hard to write one universal method of using a stencil machine. But the most common way to use a tattoo stencil printer is by firstly removing the “onion” layer from the yellow sheet and carbon paper.
Then push the yellow sheet from the copier’s bottom lid and make it lay over the copier. Make sure that the purple part is facing down. Pull the yellow sheet and lock the copier. Fold the yellow sheet back. Then insert the paper that has the design and press copy. That’s all.
You can watch a video tutorial of a basic tattoo stencil machine here
3. What Is A Tattoo Transfer Paper?
In simple words, a tattoo transfer paper is something that artists use to replicate design on their skin. One of the most common tattoo transfer papers is thermography.
4. How Do You Make Homemade Tattoo Stencils?
For a homemade tattoo stencil, you need carbon paper, speed stick deodorant, and a transfer paper. You can easily draw a design on a simple paper and then use it with carbon paper on the transfer paper to draw over the paper.
One of the better ways to copy the design precisely is by sticking the papers together. As you are done copying the design on transfer paper, use deodorant speed stick to rub on the skin and use the transfer paper like a tattoo on it and peel it off to copy the design.
The entire process is very simple and does not take too long. It is a great way to transfer complex designs.
Another protip is to always practice the design before transferring it.
5. What Steps Should One Take Before Using Tattoo Stencils?
There are a few steps that people should take before using tattoo stencils. Firstly, one must clean their skin where they are going to use the stencil with rubbing alcohol or a sanitizer.
Secondly, they must prime their skin with a moisturizer that is specifically made to soak in stenciling ink. One might also require to shave their skin where they want to stencil tattoos so that the ink gets clearly stamped and does not feel any obstruction because of hair.
6. How To Transfer Tattoo Stencils To Skin?
Firstly wash your skin with rubbing alcohol to sterilize the area. Then put a tattoo lubricant on the skin. Then put the stencil paper on your skin and press evenly. After a minute, slowly peel the paper off. Wait for the ink to dry properly, and you are done transferring tattoo stencils to skin.
You can watch a video tutorial for better understanding here
7. What Kind Of Deodorant Can I Use For Tattoo Stencils?
A deodorant stick is a good way to go. The main ingredient needed is propylene glycol. So any deodorant that has a good content of propylene glycol will work wonders. Alternatively, you can also use Dettol for stencils. Dettol is a great choice as it will fulfill the medical requirements and seems to work smoothly for the transfer of stencils.
The Bottom Line
We can conclude by saying that the products mentioned in the list are of immense high-quality. All these products fulfill the criteria of durability, and they all have advanced features needed in tattoo stencil machines such as high-resolution printing and giving clear prints.
Those stencil machines mentioned in the list are energy efficient and economical. They are also very easy to use and uncomplicated. You don’t have to worry about being tech-savvy when it comes to using these tattoo printers.
The new age tattoo stencils mentioned in the list are lightweight and portable. They are made keeping in mind the needs of new-age tattoo artists who want a travel-friendly and easy to operate a machine that does not need much upkeep.
In terms of price, the selected products fall in the category of affordable and are priced between 100 to 200 US dollars. Many of the machines also come with complimentary stencil sheets. You will not regret buying any of the above-recommended machines.
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Thank you so much for laying all this info out. It really helps to have an idea of what is necessary to help me figure out what the “extras” are when comparing machines. The info was very succinct. Much appreciated