HANDPOKE TATTOO INFO
THE
PROCESS
HEALING
The process is slightly slower than that of a machine depending on the amount of linework or dotwork shading… The design is built up in 2-3 layers and over the course of the session it literally starts to emerge from your skin... a very interesting process to watch. Lines are formed with dots, which I find to be a very satisfying and meditative process.
It is not completely painless, but is gentle and less invasive/intense on the skin than tattooing by machine. Less trauma in the skin means less pain during and after. That said, everyone is different with how they experience pain in different areas of the body. A common misconception is that hand poke tattoo hurts more. Every artist is different but in my experience my style hurts less, heals fast and ages well.
​
There is much less trauma to the skin with the handpoke method and the healing time is much, much faster. You can swim and surf within days of getting a handpoke tattoo. Perfect for travelers!
MY CHOSEN WAY
I use vegan tattoo ink and the same single use sterilized needles that are used with machine tattooing. The needle is attached to a beautiful wooden wand with a crystal embedded in the top. This wand was specially made for me at the beginning of my tattooing journey. The whole length of the wand is covered in disposable protection during the process. 
I have created hundreds of tattoos with this magic wand, it is very special to me and I cleanse and charge the crystal regularly in the full moon.
SOME ADVICE
IF I MAY
THE
EXPERIENCE
My advice would be to find the artist who's work you want on your skin forever and put up with the pain, it only lasts as long as the session - yet the tattoo lasts forever.


When choosing a tattooist, make sure they are an artist first. Check out their portfolio, past work... make sure they can draw! I was a professional artist for over 10 years before I started tattooing and I've now been a professional handpoke tattooist for over 11 years since. 
Also consider the energy of the artist, do they give you 'good vibes'? I have studied forms of energy work and am very aware of my own. The energy I put into your tattoo, will stay with you. This is something to consider when you receive a tattoo.
​
Quality tattoos are not, and should not be cheap

.
My prices reflect my experience and quality of work. Handpoke tattoo is a skill which I have learnt and refined in my 11 years of tattooing. It requires more skill, effort and energy than machine tattooing. I am the machine!
A lot of work goes into designs, a lot of energy and concentration goes into the tattooing and a lot of care goes into making the experience, as a whole, a good one.
​
The experience is as important as the design and I will always endeavor to make your tattoo experience a relaxed and memorable one. 

It's about cultivating a space where positive energy can flow freely, which is an important aspect of my work. My studio at Wild Spirit is a grounded and relaxed space, with the most beautiful view over the raw nature of the Tsitsikamma national park forest and mountains. The 'tattoo with a view' experience is something special.
I really am grateful to be able to give so many people their first tattoo experience in this space.
I have tattooed many first timers and have good feedback from mums, dads and other concerned relatives.
You're in safe hands!
