The Difference Between Stick and Poke Tattoos and Machine Tattoos (and Why It Matters)
While machine tattooing is considered the norm in the tattoo industry, another tattoo technique is becoming more and more popular – the poke and poke method. There are some similarities and differences between the two types of tattoos to consider before getting a tattoo, and knowing the intricacies of both approaches should help you decide which method is best for you (and the tattoo you plan to get).
The stick-and-poke tattoo is done by hand.
Stick and poke tattoos, also called hand tattoos, are done using a meticulous manual technique. The artist uses a traditional sterile needle, pen and body-safe ink to create the tattoo.
Stick-and-poke tattoos are achieved by repeatedly applying a series of individual punctures to the skin. The punctures create small dots that eventually form lines that turn into a larger image of whatever you are tattooing.
Machine tattoos are faster
Tattoo machines (also called tattoo guns or tattoo pens) are small, portable devices that use electromagnetic coils to move a rebar up and down. A sterilized needle, connected to a rebar, pushes the ink into the skin, moving up and down. There are several different types of tattoo machines , from rotary and reel to pneumatic. The tattoo gun often makes a loud buzzing sound while the artist is working. The machine has various settings that allow you to control the depth of the needle (how deeply it penetrates the skin) and speed (how quickly the anchor rod moves up and down).
What to do: get a stick and poke tattoo or a machine tattoo?
The main difference between the two methods is that stick-and-poke techniques are not used; everything is done by hand. Think of it like an ear piercing: you can use a needle to pierce a hole in your lobe, or a piercing gun, but either way you will get a puncture in your ear.
Since the artist manually pierces the ink directly onto the skin, these movements take much longer than machine tattoos. Some, however, enjoy the lengthy process and feel more connected to the tattoo if it is done using the stick and poke method. Due to the time-consuming nature of tattooing by hand, it may make sense to opt for a machine tattoo if the artwork you want includes many thick lines and large color spots or very small details that require clarity and precision. On the other hand, Stick-and-Poke mode can be a good choice for softer images that require less precision. It can also be a good choice for tattoos on small or uncomfortable areas of the body, such as the ears.
What hurts more?
As long as proper sterilization and hygiene techniques are used, stick and poke tattoos are just as safe as machine tattoos. Some even argue that stick and poke tattoos are far less damaging than machine tattoos. It all depends on various factors such as your tolerance for pain, the skill of the artist, the size of the tattoo, and whether your artwork requires shading.
Some people create their own tattoo kits with their own hands, but it is much safer to purchase tattoo kits online as they are specially designed for these types of tattoos.
Since tattoos are permanent, it is always a good idea to visit an experienced tattoo artist who will give you the desired result. It costs more, but it costs money to live on your body forever, and whether you get a stick and poke tattoo or a machine tattoo, the artist has to use sterile needles, follow standard hygiene rules, and get going. in a safe and clean environment.
Tattoo aftercare
Although they take longer to apply, they usually heal much faster than machine tattoos – usually only taking one or two weeks to heal completely. They injure the skin less than machine tattoos, so recovery is faster. Machine tattoos can sometimes take up to three weeks to heal properly. Either method requires the same amount and type of follow-up care. It is recommended that you listen to your tattoo artist’s instructions on how to care for your tattoo after completing it, but after that you can leave the tattoo covered for a while and then clean the tattoo two to three times a day with mild soap and water. It’s also a good idea to use a gentle moisturizer or aquaphor, petroleum jelly or other ointment to keep the tattoo from drying out or crusting.
Tattoos in the form of rods have a bad reputation among some , but if done correctly they are as safe as cars. Before letting someone approach you with a needle, it is wise to research a tattoo technique that will suit your needs.