Hand poke is one of the oldest ways to tattoo, and it has come back into studios around the world. It is quieter than machine work and has a softer look.
Here is how the two differ, and how to choose between them.
What hand poke is
The artist places each dot of ink by hand, without a machine — no motor, no buzz. The design builds from many individual points.
It is often called stick and poke, and in Southeast Asia the hand-tapped bamboo tradition is a close cousin.
What machine tattooing is
A tattoo machine moves the needle for the artist, which suits long clean lines, solid black and colour.
What suits each
- Hand poke: small symbols, delicate botanicals, script and dotwork, where a soft look is the point.
- Machine: long clean lines, solid black, colour, realism and larger pieces.
Many designs could work either way. Your artist can tell you which technique suits your idea.
Where bamboo tattooing fits
Bamboo tattooing is hand-tapped work using a bamboo or metal rod, traditional across Thailand, Cambodia and Indonesia. Done properly it is a legitimate craft with centuries behind it.
If you want hand-done work in Bali, choose a professional studio and ask how they work. A good studio will be happy to explain.
Aftercare
Whichever technique you choose, follow the aftercare advice your artist gives you for your tattoo.
What it costs
Hand poke is priced like our other work, by style and size — see the price list on our tattoo page. Price may vary depending on design detail, placement and time required.
Common questions about hand poke
Do you offer hand poke?
Yes. Hand poke is one of the styles on our tattoo page.
Can hand poke be combined with machine work?
Talk to your artist about combining the two in one design.
Which should I choose?
It depends on the design and the look you want. Talk it through with our artists.
What to ask your artist
Ask which technique suits your design, and what to expect from your session.
Try it
Hand poke is one of the styles on our tattoo page — open the style card to see real examples, then send your idea over on WhatsApp.
