If you’re new to the world of stick and poke tattoos, you might be wondering what exactly they are, how safe they can be, and what you need to get started. You’re in the right place.
Stick and poke tattooing, also called hand poke or DIY tattooing, is a slower and more intentional form of tattoo art. It’s a way to connect with your creativity and your body while creating something personal and permanent. Before you dive in, let’s cover the basics so your first tattoo experience is safe and meaningful.
What Is a Tattoo?
A tattoo is made by placing tiny amounts of ink into the skin with a small group of needles. The ink sits beneath the surface where your skin cells hold it, which is why tattoos last for years. Over time, tattoos can fade as skin regenerates or from too much sun exposure, especially on hands and feet.
Stick and poke tattoos work the same way as machine tattoos, but without a motor. You dip your needle in ink and make small, steady pokes by hand. It’s more like pointillism than drawing, which makes the process slower but also more personal.
Pros and Cons of Stick and Poke Tattoos
Pros:
- More personal and meaningful
- Easier to connect with your art and your body
- Often heals faster since it’s gentler on skin
- Easier to make small changes as you go
Cons:
- Takes more time
- Can be more painful for detailed tattoos
- Requires patience and good hygiene
Are Stick and Pokes Safe?
Yes, as long as you use sterile tools, high-quality ink, and follow proper hygiene.
Humans have been tattooing for thousands of years, but modern pigments can vary a lot in quality. Not all inks are safe, especially cheap or glow-in-the-dark varieties. Stick with trusted brands that have been around for a while. We use inks produced in the US which are known for consistency and quality.
Avoid unknown or knock-off tattoo inks made overseas found on Amazon or eBay. They can contain unsafe additives that may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Infection risks are real, but preventable. Always use:
- Sterile needles (never reuse)
- Green Soap and isopropyl alcohol for cleaning
- Disposable gloves
- A clean workspace with sanitized surfaces. We recommend medical surface coverings.
Keep pets, food, and drinks far from your tattoo area.
How to Start Practicing
Before you ever touch real skin, practice your hand poke technique. You can use fake tattoo skin, fruit like oranges, or other practice materials to get a feel for depth and rhythm. Try different needle groupings to see how your lines and shading change.
We recommend starting with a Practice Kit that includes everything you need to learn safely before tattooing yourself or a friend.
How to Begin on Real Skin
Once you’re confident, it’s time to get serious about setup.
Prepare Your Environment:
- Clean and clear your workspace
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Use a surface covering for sanitation
Gather Your Supplies:
- Tattoo needles
- Tattoo ink (from a trusted brand)
- Medical surface covering
- Alcohol pads
- Green Soap
- Transfer paper and gel
- Gloves and sanitary wipes
- Ink jar and a needle holder
If you’re using our DIY stick and poke tattoo kit, these supplies will already be included. Our kits have been trusted for almost a decade and feature premium-grade materials used by professional artists.
Steps to Create a Stick and Poke Tattoo
Every artist has their own method, but here’s a simple step-by-step guide that works:
- Clean and prep the skin with soap and alcohol.
- Apply your stencil using transfer paper or freehand it.
- Open sterile needles and ink caps right before use.
- Dip your needle in ink and make small, steady pokes along the stencil lines.
- Wipe gently with Green Soap to remove excess ink as you go.
- Work slowly and carefully to avoid overworking the skin.
- Clean and cover the tattoo when finished.
Aftercare Tips
Aftercare is key to keeping your tattoo looking crisp and healthy.
- Wash gently with mild soap and warm water.
- Apply second skin
After you remove the second skin in a few days:
- Apply a thin layer of unscented tattoo balm or moisturizer.
- Avoid soaking, scratching, or direct sunlight.
- Let your skin peel naturally—no picking!
With good care, your tattoo will stay sharp and vibrant for years.
Final Thoughts
In our basic kit, you’ll find our “Guide to Stick and Poking” zine. It’s like this article’s cooler, more detailed big sibling. Our practice kits include a very informative poster to help you begin your stick and poke journey. Stick and poke tattoos are about creativity, connection, and patience. They’re a way to express yourself in a slower, more mindful way. Start small, stay safe, and take your time.
Good luck and poke safely.
