Ceremonial Handpoke Tattoo

What to Expect:

Correspondence and support prior to your session to confirm placement and designs, ensuring the day of tattooing flows with ease and presence.

If selected as part of your tattoo experience, a private ritual session - includes a smoke clearing upon arrival, release & invoke ritual at the studio altar, energy alignment session before we begin with sound healing, and guidance from the ‘Of Earth & Ether Oracle’ woven into your experience.

Stencil application and then a slow, mindful handpoke process using natural rhythm (no machines!) with peaceful music in the background. All marking is done in our treatment room, maintained in accordance with NSW health hygiene standards.

Once your marking is completed we will close our session with reiki to assist in healing and integration.

I use the highest grade single use needles & vegan low tox ink. I am a licensed tattooist (Master License number: 012325 ) with deep care for safety, comfort and wellbeing. Snacks are also provided and plenty of time for tea breaks if needed. This is a holistic tattoo experience.

This Work Is For You If:

You feel called to mark a moment in time - a threshold, a rite of passage, a loved one…

You wish to call a particular energy into your life, using your skin as the altar and the ink as a prayer.

You’re seeking an experience that is supportive, spirit-led, and deeply intentional.

You value calm, peaceful presence and sacred space.

These markings are not mass-produced or done on a whim - they are deeply personal. I want to get to know you and your story.

Like clay shaped in fire, they are meant to last, to hold meaning, to ground you in who you are becoming.
Come as you are. Leave marked by something more…

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a handpoke tattoo?

Handpoke (also known as stick-and-poke) is a traditional tattooing method where the design is created dot by dot, using a single needle and the artist’s hand - no machines, no buzzing. It’s a slow, intentional process that allows for a calm and a deeply personal experience.

How is this different from a regular tattoo session?

This is not just a tattoo - it’s a ritual.
Every session is held in sacred space, guided by intention, breath and spirit. It’s a collaboration with energy and meaning, not just aesthetic.

Does it hurt?

Everyone’s pain threshold is different, but most find handpoke tattooing to be much gentler than machine work. The slower pace allows your body and nervous system to settle into the rhythm. There’s discomfort, yes - but it’s also part of the initiation, and you’ll be lovingly supported throughout. Many of my clients have remarked at how painless it is, especially those who have previously had machine tattoos.

Do I need to know what I want tattooed before I reach out to book?

Not at all. Some people come with a clear vision, others come with a feeling, a word or a transition they’re moving through. We’ll co-create the design together, allowing symbols to arise through intuitive guidance and conversation. I will send through proofs of the design before your session so that you have time to sit with it and make any changes if needed. I want you to be 100% confident and happy with what is going to be adorning your skin forever!

I also have ‘Flash Sheets’ available to view - pre made stencil designs that are based on the Of Earth & Ether Oracle cards that I authored. Paired with the meaning and incantation of particular cards within the deck, these designs can be a powerful way to embody a particular energy.

Where are you located?

All tattoo ceremonies take place in my private, purpose-built studio on the NSW Central Coast. It’s a calm, earthy space designed for spiritual work, healing and deep rest. If you are from out of town there are plenty of beautiful spots nearby to stay that I can recommend.

Please note I do not offer ‘walk in’ tattooing - my sessions are booked in advance & my studio is private. The address is shared upon booking, allowing the space to be uninterrupted during your session.

How long does a session take?

This all depends on the size, complexity and detail of the tattoo design. I can advise once you fill out the questionnaire.

What kind of designs do you offer?

I work with symbolic and intuitive designs, often drawing from ancient motifs, plant allies, personal talismans and sacred geometry. This is not a heavily illustrative style - my work is minimalist and meaningful. Please note I will not copy other artist work.

If I don’t feel my style will suit what you are after I will happily refer you onto other local tattoo artists who can create that for you.

What should I do to prepare?

Come rested, hydrated, and open-hearted. Please avoid alcohol or substances the day before. Wear comfortable clothing that the tattoo placement can be easily accessed and eat a nourishing meal beforehand. I’ll send you a full preparation guide when you book.

Is this only for women?

No! While much of my work has been centred in feminine spaces, this offering is open to all gender identities who feel called to this kind of sacred marking. What matters most is your respect for the process.

Can I book in with a partner or friend?

Yes! Some of the most enjoyable markings have been to honour an anniversary or friendship. These are usually smaller designs so they can be done in the one session.

How do I book?

Due to the depth and energy of this work, I offer a limited number of sessions each month. You can submit an application via the form below, and I’ll be in touch to schedule if we’re aligned.

How much do you charge?

Every tattoo is unique; final pricing is determined by size, detail, placement, and if you have opted for ceremony as part of your marking.

To honour the time and care woven into every session my price starts at $300 minimum for smaller simple design tattoos (up to 5cm - no ceremony).

Half-Day Ceremony (3–4 hours): $600–$800

Full-Day Ceremony (6–8 hours): $1,100–$1,500+

A $200 non-refundable design fee secures your session and is applied to your balance.

All tattoo’s include a healing salve to go home with, created exclusively for Asha Moon by Shalah Skin.

How does payment work?

A $200 design fee is required at the time of booking, this secures your session and will come off the balance of your booking - which is due on the day of the marking, Eftpos is available. You may reschedule your date twice with at least 24 hours notice, after which you will forfeit the booking fee. If you decide not to be marked the fee is also forfeited, as this will cover my time to create a custom design + correspondence.

Touch ups

A complimentary touch up is available on every tattoo (although rarely needed with handpoke!) I recommend waiting 4-6 weeks to see how the ink settles into the skin.

After care is important & you will be given instructions on how to keep your marking looking perfect.

Finger Tattoos

I do offer finger & hand tattoos (tops only, no sides or palms), although these areas are delicate and the ink tends to fade quickly due to the skin texture + frequent hand washing. Each finger tattoo includes a complimentary first touch-up within 12 months to ensure the design remains clear and beautiful - but after that you will need to pay for touchups.

Any further questions? please feel free to reach out here

Much love, Shannon x

Handpoke application form:

Please note completing this form does not guarantee a booking. I will be in touch if your vision for the marking aligns with my style, and when dates become available.