A stick and poke tattoo or hand poked tattoo is done by dipping a single tattoo needle into ink and poking it into the skin by hand, instead of using a tattoo machine to produce your ink
How do I decide on a design?
It isn’t always easy, it’s something you are going to keep ‘forever.’ Sometimes it will just come to you, but others you will need an inspirational push. You can always find ideas on Tumblr, Instagram, or Pinterest. You can always google simple line drawings, or stick and poke tattoo ideas. Try to be creative, don’t just copy someone else’s design.
Do they hurt?
Of course, it’s gonna hurt. It’s a needle poking your skin over and over after all! Different spots will hurt more or less than others, depending if it’s on a sensitive area. Since you’re not using a machine, it will take longer, but it will hurt less, as you will not penetrating the needle as much.
Best ink?
Any professional tattoo ink brand will work fine. Intenze, Radiant, World Famous or Kuro Sumi are some popular choices. I always recommend vegan and animal-test-free inks. You can find a few here.
Could I be allergic to tattoo ink?
Some people have problems with Red tattoo inks. Red ink sometimes contains mercury or cadmium. As for black inks, they are usually made of iron oxide or carbon, ultimately the safest.
What are all the tools I should have to do my own Hand poke Tattoo?
Tools I recommend in having to be ready for a tattoo are:
- Sterile tattoo needles
- Tattoo grip
- Nitrile gloves
- Vegan lubricant
- Alcohol pads
- Disposable razor
- Tattoo wipes
- Stencil paper
