When it comes to tattoo needles - there are a lot to choose from! Each needle allows for getting the ink into the skin in a different way with various tattoo effects. In this post, we explore what the sizes mean and also the different ways each needle works on your skin. Keep in mind that this is an ever evolving and highly subjective topic. Tattoo artists use different needles based on their preference and style. Stick and Poke tattoos were historically done with needle and thread. Now we just use tattoo needles ;-)

Our new PRACTICE KIT includes an instructional poster that graphically explains some of this really nicely. Here is some more info:

Tattoo Needles Explained Easy

tattoo needle

Needle Types, General

RL = Round Liner -  for lining and [...]

Earnest Questions with Earnest Answers...

Alex writes...

Hello!  I did some stick and pokes about 4 years ago with an India ink which I can't remember the brand name of and a sewing needle.  They're both about 2 inches circular (a sun and a moon) on my ankle.  Now back then there was little information about what inks to use, what needles were appropriate and how to sanitize needles; luckily I did not ever get an infection and the tattoos both came out pretty dark and faded a pretty blue-ish color.
Now what I'm wondering about is toxicity of India ink and chrome from needles, and how long it would take for effects to be considered benign or if there could be long term effects from some of those compounds.
I'm not sure that you all would have any information on this but figured I'd ask.  I would assume that if there was some [...]

Practice Skin is now included in Expert Kits!

It is vegan friendly fake skin that allows you to practice using the stencil, the inks, the wipes and the needles! It is one way that professionals learn to tattoo. ALLERGY WARNING: IT IS MADE OF LATEX!

With it, you can...

• practice home tattooing techniques on fake skin!

• really do that one tattoo before you DO IT - do it.

• practice stenciling & wiping on fake skin.

• showcase your tattoo work on real practice skin!

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Thank you in advance!

PRACTICE POKING SAFELY :-)

Oh HI! I've updated our free 30-page DIY tattoo instructional booklet. You can download it here:  Tattoo Book Insert.

There are some important changes including:

1. Tattoo Instructions:  How to use the stencil paper & Stencil Stuff in the new kits
2. Blood Borne Pathogens: These are really small.
3.  Ideas: The suggestion to avoid designs and patterns from a culture different from your own (appropriation)
4.  Info on the EXPERT KIT (more needles, more inks, oh my!)
5. How most of our stuff is made locally. Also from recyclable, vegan, compostable, stuff made in the USA. We pay a living wage to all our part-time Independent Contractor Kit Makers.
6. Pro Tips. Did you know that putting ointment on while poking will help keep the area free of ink puddles? Yer welcome. ;-) <3

Booklet Excerpt:

Some History on Natural Tattoos

The word tattoo was brought to Europe [...]

UNBOXING of a Single Stick & Poke Tattoo Kit