Different Types of Ink Cups

28 November 2025

Today, the tattoo industry offers a wide range of materials, shapes, and sizes, each designed for specific techniques and preferences. Ink cups might seem like a small detail in the tattoo setup, but choosing the right one can make a difference.

Types of Ink Cups

The most traditional option is transparent plastic ink cups. They’re available in many sizes, from tiny 8mm cups for small pieces or single colours, all the way up to 25mm cups for larger tattoos, shading sets, or greywash dilution.
You can also find plastic cups with built-in holders.

Silicone & Bio Ink Cups

Many artists are now choosing ink cups made from modern materials:

Silicone Ink Cups

A soft, flexible material that protects your needle.
If the needle accidentally touches the cup, silicone won’t damage it, a simple but valuable advantage during long sessions.

Bio Ink Cups

A sustainable alternative made from plant-based materials.
Since most tattoo equipment must be disposed of as contaminated waste, choosing biodegradable ink cups helps reduce environmental impact without compromising performance.

Tip: There’s no perfect formula, just what works best for your workflow and style.

Matching the Ink Cup to Your Tattoo Style

Your choice of cup depends on:

Tattoo size
Large pieces work better with larger cups, especially when mixing greywash or multiple tones.
Technique
Greywash → Medium/large cups
Fine-line → Small cups to avoid waste
Colour work → Several small or medium cups for multiple pigments
Material preference
Some artists love silicone for needle safety; others prefer traditional cups for quick setup.