SAK YANT BY ARTIST

Another option for you. We know a lot of people out there who fall in love with a Sak Yant design and the meaning behind it but do not feel comfortable to receives an authentic Sak Yant tattoo in the traditional way with ceremonies. We offer you the correct Sak Yant tattoo designs performed with our machine tattoo artist. They have been overseen by our Sak Yant Master to perform these styles of traditional Sak Yant tattooing. We make sure as a tattoo shop that our Sak Yant designs are correct whether it's from our Sak Yant master or from our machine artist. This way ensures that you are getting the best quality work from Thai Tattoo café. The main difference between machines is accuracy and precision. So, if you’re asking yourself why would I have the traditional Thai hand poke versus the machine, it's all about the experience and respect of the Thai Sak Yant culture. Plus it's badass!

A Sak Yant tattoo performed by a machine is not an authentic way. If you wish to receive a ceremony from the Sak Yant master afterward. Please be informed that you will need to pay 500 THB extra for the ceremony fee and bring offerings such as flowers, whiskey, candles, and incense. This is your choice. Either way to do the ceremony or not, with respect to culture and Sak Yant tattoos, you are still required to do good things, think good, talk good, not cheat, and no drugs and no stealing. It is the Thai way of life.

Hand Poke vs Machine Tattoo: Which Is Right for You?

Thinking about getting a tattoo but not sure whether to go traditional or modern?
Let’s break it down: Hand poke vs machine tattoo. Both have their place. Both can create stunning results. But the experience, meaning, and feel? Totally different.

At Thai Tattoo Café, we offer both traditional Thai hand poke tattoos and modern machine tattoos—so you can choose the one that truly fits your vibe.

What’s the Difference?

Traditional Thai Hand Poke Tattoo

• Applied dot-by-dot using a metal rod or bamboo-style needle

• Quieter and more meditative

• Often paired with spiritual blessings (Sak Yant)

• Heals faster with less trauma to the skin

• Deeply rooted in Thai tradition and ceremony

Machine Tattoo

• Done with an electric machine that moves the needle rapidly

• Good for larger or high-detail work

• More widely used for modern and Western-style designs

• Requires more aftercare due to skin trauma

• Great for bold shading, color, and custom pieces

How Do You Choose?

Ask yourself:

• Do you want a spiritual experience or artistic expression?
  Hand poke = spiritual. Machine = creative flexibility.

• Is this your first tattoo?
  Many first-timers love the hand poke experience for its gentler feel.

• Do you already have machine tattoos?
  Mixing in a hand poke adds depth and meaning to your collection.

• Are you drawn to Thai culture and tradition?
  Then the hand poke is calling your name.

Still not sure? We’re happy to guide you.

Why Not Both?

Some of our clients do exactly that: a machine tattoo for the look, and a hand poke Sak Yant for the soul.

We’re one of the few tattoo house in Bangkok that offers both done by professionals, in a clean, welcoming space.

Let’s Find the Right Tattoo Style for You Not sure which one suits you best?
Visit Thai Tattoo Café and talk with our artists. We’ll help you choose the style that fits your energy, your story, and your vision.