Meet the Experts
What Are Stick-and-Poke Tattoos?
Stick-and-poke tattoos are a form of non-electric tattooingthat is to say, theres no tattoo machine used.
“The two things just often look very similar.”
@yard_n_gnome/ Instagram
“yo never get a stick-and-poke tattoo in a friend’s kitchen, or underground so-called private studios.
It is still a serious procedure,” says tattoo artist Burak Noire, owner of Fleur Noire Tatoo.
I personally have two stick-and-poke tattoos on my inner ankles.
@yard_n_gnome/ Instagram
Some people think the pain isnt as bad as machine tattooing, while others find it to be worse.
“Everyone experiences pain differently.”
“Some really want the [somewhat] rougher, more ‘homemade’ look of stick-and-pokes, though.
@yard_n_gnome/ Instagram
Pick your poison, I suppose.”
How Long Do Stick-and-Poke Tattoos Last?
A common misconception is that a stick-and-poke doesnt last as long as a machine-done tattoo.
@yagirlstar/ Instagram
If its too deep, youll get ablowout, which means the lines blur together and feather out.
If its not deep enough, the ink wont stay at all.
“Much like diamonds and Wu-Tang, they are for forever,” Faris says of stick-and-pokes' longevity.
@yagirlstar/ Instagram
Are Stick-and-Poke Tattoos Safe?
As tattoo artist Yoyo Lee notes, stick-and-pokes are generally as safe as machine tattoos, if done correctly.
A DIY stick-and-poke could mean pain, infection, and undesired art that will be on your skin forever.
“Hygiene is everything,” Lee says.
“The tattooer generally will shave and clean the area,” Faris says.
“You will want to show up to your appointment well-fed and hydrated, though.”
“Typically, two to three weeks is standard,” Faris says of the healing time.
Who knowsyou may even end up preferring the process to machine-done tattoos.
Watson T.Intricate animal and flower tattoos found on Egyptian mummy.Nature.
2016;533(7602):155. doi:10.1038/nature.2016.19864
