When you think of a Stick and Poke tattoo, you might imagine a shaky blown-out tattoo that’s representative of a bad decision made at 13 years old. Without proper technique, that’s what a handpoked tattoo could turn out like. However, handpoked tattooing is a tattoo practice that dates back to 1000 years ago. It refers to the process of tattooing without a machine but rather, a needle and ink. Handpoking is a very different process from machine tattooing, and there are tattoo artists today who specialize in the art form. It’s a unique and mindful experience. If you’ve been considering getting a handpoked tattoo, here’s how to figure out if it’s right for you.
Firstly, it’s important to think about why you want a handpoked tattoo. There’s a common misconception that handpoking is a painless process. While it can be described as less painful than machine tattooing, it is far from painless. In my experience getting a handpoked tattoo, the pain is dulled and more tolerable than a machine tattoo, but the process is longer. Essentially, I felt like it was less painful, but you need to endure it for longer.
Getting a handpoked tattoo can be a mindful and grounding practice. You can literally feel the ink being presented into your skin with every poke. It typically takes longer than a machine tattoo, but depending on where you go, certain artists can be quite quick in their process. Handpoked tattoos are more timely because each dot of the tattoo is crafted by hand and to shade and darken certain areas, handpoking requires repetitive work. Many people are drawn to handpoked tattoos because it’s a much simpler minimal form of tattooing. There are few tools needed, and the approach simply goes “back to the basics”. Small and fine detail tattoos might be a good option if you’re considering getting a handpoked tattoo. Artists will complete larger handpoked tattoos, but it will take a longer time and is likely more expensive.
The healing process also differs between handpoked and machine tattoos. The process of machine tattooing can be abrasive to the skin and may result in more pain afterwards. In my experience, my handpoked tattoo hurt much less than any of my other tattoos in the days following my appointment. Typically, I have some soreness in the area of the fresh tattoo, but with my handpoked tattoo, I didn’t experience that.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and efficient process to getting your tattoo, machine tattooing is your best bet. If you’d like a more relaxing, less painful, and more mindful experience, getting a handpoked tattoo could be for you! Take the time to research different artists in your area and their tattooing style, and consider talking to them about your specific project. Whichever method you choose, you will end up with a unique piece of art on your body that lasts a lifetime.
