8 Best Stick and Poke Tattoo Artists of 2025
- Pokeyhontas
- May 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 1
Discovering Stick and Poke Tattoos
Stick and Poke tattoos have been around for many years. However, the method gained significant popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. I began tattooing under @pokeyhontastattoo in our Birmingham tattoo shop just two months before everything shut down. I found myself spending most of the lockdown admiring other artists' work. It was a source of inspiration and motivation for me.
If you’re not familiar, Stick and Poke tattoos are more time-consuming than machine tattoos. This is because there’s no tattoo machine or electricity involved. Each dot is applied by hand. Thus, the needle only moves as fast as your hand does. Control, pressure, rhythm, and consistency are everything.
Lining vs. Shading
When creating solid lines, control and precision become paramount. You must slow down and be deliberate with each poke. In contrast, shading allows for a more relaxed approach. This aspect focuses on movement and flow, utilizing soft, gradual layering to build depth.
With that said, let’s dive into some of the most skilled Stick and Poke tattoo artists today. This list is in no particular order, as each artist has their unique style.
Dennis Soo's work exemplifies the precision and artistry of Stick and Poke tattoos. He creates intricate ornamental designs, mesmerizing mandalas, sharp geometric shapes, and elegant calligraphy. Each tattoo demonstrates remarkable detail and patience, with every element aligning effortlessly.
Furthermore, Soo's execution reveals his mastery. The layering of dots creates a harmonious feel that’s both bold and elegant. Each piece showcases not just technique, but also the vision to transform complexity into effortless art. His work is an exploration of form and movement, brought to life with patience and profound understanding of the Stick and Poke method.
Stickandchoke's shading technique is exceptional. Their ability to balance texture and smoothness creates depth while maintaining a soft, cohesive look. Each tattoo has an intentional feel, accomplished by their mastery of contrast.
Moreover, Stickandchoke's consistency across various body areas is impressive. Tattooing requires adaptability as skin texture and curvature impacts how ink settles. Their work remains stunning on every surface, showcasing strong control and understanding of how tattoos interact with the body.
Gapoked creates incredible blackwork pieces entirely by hand using the Stick and Poke method. The size and detail of these tattoos take significant time and patience. The various needle sizes used allow for both bold shapes and fine details. Saturation becomes critical; if too light, the work appears patchy, and if too heavy, it risks skin damage.
Moreover, Gapoked's minimal setup enhances the impact of the designs. The precise placement of highlights, especially in the eyes, demonstrates careful attention to detail. It is this control that distinguishes excellent work from merely good work.
Every line in bb.hurricane’s work is executed with absolute precision. This specific headpiece stands out for both its design and technical application. Achieving solid black fills is particularly challenging, yet bb.hurricane consistently delivers high-quality results.
Different body parts pose various challenges. Areas like the ribcage are more difficult due to skin softness and movement. Nevertheless, bb.hurricane achieves consistency, demonstrating a strong eye for design and composition. This balance makes each tattoo not just visually striking but also technically sound.
Blackrainbow_ink specializes in color tattoos, which require careful technique. The lower saturation of color inks means more layers are needed for vibrancy. Yet, this approach creates joyful designs that radiate with personality. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted, transforming simple concepts into unique creations.
The final product bursts with energy. Their bright color combinations make each piece stand out uniquely. Blackrainbow_ink demonstrates a delicate yet determined technique that is truly magical.
Creating fine lines with the Stick and Poke method adds difficulty. Artists like ann_pokes make this process look effortless, but accuracy is key. Smaller needle groupings hold less ink, leading to visibly finer marks. Maintaining pressure is essential; too hard can cause blowouts, while too soft may yield insufficient ink saturation.
Every line in ann_pokes' work holds intention, showcasing a level of mastery that is unmatched. Zooming in reveals attention to detail, patience, and understanding of how ink settles on skin.
This stick and poke tattoo by maria_pokes features a flower that beautifully showcases artistry. Each petal is carefully shaded, creating a soft gradient that lends depth to the design. The composition is balanced, with fluid movement in the stem, which enhances the piece's overall harmony.
The shading achieves dimension while remaining true to the simplicity of Stick and Poke. Each dot adds richness and contrast, highlighting how intricate details can elevate minimalist designs.
Sugarangeltattoo specializes in micro realism achieved through Stick and Poke. The detail in small spaces is noteworthy. The contrast between Einstein's delicate features and the solid black background exemplifies their skill.
Their ability to achieve realism, while balancing fine details over time is impressive. Sugarangeltattoo employs various needle groupings, ensuring every poke is executed with thoughtfulness and intention. This control is necessary for realism that stands the test of time.
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I can reveal that while I’ve only briefly interacted with all the artists mentioned above via Instagram, they exude humility and kindness! A special THANK YOU to all the featured artists!
Stick and Poke tattooing has significantly evolved in recent years. What started as a simple method is now a refined and respected style. Artists push its limits to create detailed, long-lasting designs. Thanks to advances in tools and ink quality, achieving smoother lines and richer shading is now possible.
It’s fantastic to see the appreciation for this method grow. The process requires patience, precision, and a steady hand. Artists embrace it not just for its unique aesthetic, but also for the mindful, hands-on experience it provides. The slower, intentional nature of Stick and Poke fosters a deeper connection between artist and design, making each piece feel personal and crafted with thought.
Having started my career in Stick and Poke has given me a deep appreciation for the technique. It has taught me the patience, precision, and commitment inherent to the craft. Every mark relies on control, focus, and dedication. Even now, I respect the level of skill required to execute it well. Stick and Poke has shaped my tattooing artistry and will always be a part of my approach.
For more information on Stick and Poke tattoos, follow the links below:
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