Hand poke tattoos are getting their moment in the spotlight, thanks to some very talented artists working in this medium. This isn't a stick and poke in someone's basement. Machineless tattooing is a romantic art form, and these tattoos are here to show you why.
The practice itself takes longer than getting tattooed with a machine, but this is an ancient art form, and those who have these tats say it's a different kind of ritualistic experience. When getting poked by a skilled artist, the results are truly breathtaking — from the dot work to the somewhat softer way a hand poke tattoo presents. Here are some of our favorites.
Elegant rose.
We love the look of tattoos on fingers, and this rose is the perfect adornment for a thumb. This one was beautifully done by Belladonna Hurricane.
The softness of wildflowers.
Artist Lara Maju's tattoo is part whisper — so soft and lovely. This hand-poked bunch of wildflowers continue her beautiful aesthetic.
Meaningful lineage.
Perfectly designed for a long line back piece, this gorgeous tattoo from Neiz Vesten at Artful Ink also features perfect circles.
Abstract.
This is true art. We love the abstract design of this hand poke tattoo by Neiz Vesten at Artful Ink. Perfect placement, as well.
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Perfect fruit.
We really couldn't love this lemon tattoo by Elysse Marcus more.
Scenic view.
This stick and poke tattoo by Ximena Mil gives us wanderlust. What a scene!
Enchanting.
Women who run with the wolves — this is wolf magic hand poked by Isabel Mariposa Galactica.
Stunningly decorative.
This Victorian-inspired beauty was hand poked by artist Boo Tattoo. Love!
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Perfect buzz.
The work here is so exquisite — we can get lost in the hand poke style of Sarah Lu.
Detailed.
Hand poke tattoo artist Cammy created this beautiful work of intricate design.
Light and dark.
This is such a pretty spot for a delicate hand poke tattoo, and this one by Liv Handpoke Tattoos features a lovely thicker line with sweet thin line for excellent contrast.
The showcase.
Hand poked tattoos can showcase the work of a fine artist perfectly. Here's an example with this beauty of a vase with flower by Belladonna Hurricane.
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The curves of a seashell.
She's such an expert at creating the most delicate and yet the most powerful tattoos, and this seashell by Lara Maju is just as hauntingly beautiful.
Beyond incredible.
Artist Sarah Lu is truly incredible at adding depth to her hand poked tattoos.
Sweet surprise.
This is one of those hidden and yet so delightful spots for a tattoo. We love the hand poked work of Lara Maju.
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Ghost-like.
This hand poke lotus by Gabriela Contage is so soft and gorgeous. We love its subtlety.
Finest lines.
At first look, this hand poke tattoo seems to be a cool pattern, and it is, but it's also meaningful, representing three children.
Origami love.
We really appreciate the origami design of this sweet little elephant.
Sweet critter.
We are in awe of the details that make up this cute little squirrel.
Total art.
This ancient art form really lends itself perfectly to creating an intricate dot work tattoo like this one.
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Sweet memory.
Teagan Campbell's delicate machineless tattoos have a sweetness to them like a dear memory.
