With the passing of years, new trends are added continuously in the world of tattoos, which makes people attacked tattoos. In the ’90s, tribal tattoos, arm pieces, and tramp stamps decorated millions of bodies, but just like others before them, these movements are being replaced by newer trends, like a stick and poke tattooing. There is a good and reliable reason why stick and poke tattoos are becoming more and more popular globally with each passing day.
Putting the fact that this “style” in tattooing first emerged in the DIY ethics of punk culture during the ’60s and ’70s aside, this style has returned to the spotlight just over a decade ago. A new DIY movement followed the global financial crisis of 2008, which saw the resurgence of the stick and poke tattoo.
Nowadays, there are lots of A-list celebrities like Rihanna and Cara Delevingne, who are sporting stick and poke designs, and there’s no denying that this type of tattoo is going through a mini golden age.
What is a Stick and Poke Tattoo?
Before we present some ideas related to this style, it is very important to provide the answer to the question: what is a stick and poke tattoo?
These tattoos are also known as stick n poke tattoos, DIY tattoos, and homemade tattoos. Besides the name you use for this style, this tattooing style represents a type of handmade body ink that is performed without using electricity. This means that instead of using a tattoo machine, the artist uses a needle covered in ink to repetitively puncture the skin and put color pigments in the lower layers of the dermis.
DIY tattoos are created by using sewing needles and similar tools, so they typically have a rougher look, nearly like a prison tattoo. The rugged aspect of the tattoo is what usually compliments the design. Having this in mind, specific needles found in stick and poke tattoo kits generally give the best results without taking away the rough element because they are designed for this reason.
Similarly, there are many possibilities when it comes to the ink being used, but it is the best for you to choose the toxin-free specialized tattoo ink if you want the best results. The majority of DIY tattooists use India ink, but this is not an ideal choice since it’s not always sterilized.
Another thing that is very important to be aware of is that stick n poke tattoos are more available because you only need a needle and some ink. Countless people around the world get a stick and poke from friends and family members with admirable results.
Just like with other tattoos, there are some risks involved, so you should take all the safety measures to keep side-effects at a minimum. The crucial part of creating a safe environment is to get quality materials and making sure you follow a strict aftercare regime once you’re done getting inked.
Stick and Poke tattoo ideas
Just like with everything else, these tattoos have some negative sides too. When it comes to these tattoos, the chances of getting an infection are higher than with other ordinary tattoo art. Moreover, the process of creating a stick and poke design is longer and quite painful, and when compared to a professional tattoo.
However, it should not change your mind from getting these kinds of tattoos since they look awesome when made cleanly. Moreover, these tattoos tend to heal quickly, so you don’t have to stress much about this part of the tattooing in the first place. Below are some designs of stick and poke tattoos that will prove to you that the pain is worth it.
Geometric patterns
For a very long time, geometrical patterns have been a popular choice in the world of tattoos. The great thing about these tattoo motifs is that there countless design possibilities, and you can either choose a simple pattern or a detailed one. Lots of these geometrical patterns look great in stick and poke style, so don’t overthink and get one today on your skin.
Floral patterns
There is no better pattern than the flower one if your wish is to make a statement with your stick and poke tattoo. Women often choose floral designs, but due to their versatility, there are a growing number of men who are proudly wearing a floral pattern on their body. The choice of flowers depends on your personality, but no matter which one you choose, you can be certain that flowers make one of the best stick and poke tattoo designs.
Tribal patterns
These tattoo designs that are done in the classic tribal pattern look amazing. The reason for that is because the stick and poke style involves fine lines and very clean artistic taste, which are very important when it comes to tribal tattoos.
Abstract patterns
If you want to achieve a unique and cool look for your stick and poke tattoo, then you should be considered getting it with an abstract pattern.
Final Appearance
The final thing that you should have in mind is that as long as you take proper care and use clean, quality materials, your stick and poke tattoo should heal well. However, the final appearance will depend mostly on the quality of the work.
These tattoo designs are truly amazing since some of the effects you can achieve through stick and poke are not possible with machines and vice versa. It is considered as a general rule that handmade tattoos look great when they feature dot work, lines, and simple designs, whereas machines are more appropriate for shading and realistic pieces.
