About Tiki Tattoo Studio

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A MODERN TWIST ON CLASSIC ART

Founded in 2008, Tiki Tatau brings the timeless art of Maori and Polynesian tattoos into the modern world. Our studio fuses ancient traditions with innovative techniques, blending the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific with contemporary precision. Each tattoo is a personal reflection, carefully designed to honor both individual stories and the sacred symbols that have been passed down through generations.

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SATISFIED CUSTOMER

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YEARS EXPERIENCE

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AWARDS

TIKIORA
(JAY)

About Tikiora (Jay)

MASTER OF TRADITIONAL AND MODERN TATTOOING

Born with Maori and Dutch heritage, Tikiroa’s journey began in New Zealand, deeply rooted in his tribe’s traditions. After exploring culinary arts in the Netherlands, his passion for tattooing led him to Koh Phangan, where he opened Tiki Tatau in 2008. Fusing the warrior spirit of Maori culture with the precision of Thai Bamboo techniques, Tikiroa creates tattoos that honor both personal stories and ancient symbols.

Tikiroa’s dedication to preserving the meaning behind each design is reflected in his mastery of traditional and modern methods. His work captures the essence of cultural heritage while delivering less painful, quickly healing tattoos.

Tiki Tattoo Shop Puclications

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the process for booking a tattoo appointment?

The easiest and most efficient way to book an appointment is through WhatsApp or Instagram Direct Message, as these platforms offer the quickest visibility for me.

How much do tattoos cost?

Pricing varies based on the complexity and size of the design. For detailed information and a personalized quote, please contact me directly via WhatsApp or Instagram Direct Message.

Do you require a deposit?

A deposit is typically required to secure your booking, as we dedicate full days to each client to ensure the highest level of focus and attention to detail. As a small, customer-focused studio, this allows us to provide a fully personalized experience for your tattoo. Please note that deposits are generally non-refundable, but we can discuss specific situations via Direct Message.

Can I bring my own design or artwork?

Yes, you can bring your own design as long as it aligns with the styles I specialize in. Please note that I do not work with black and grey or realism styles, as these are not my specialties. For these styles, I’d be happy to recommend another artist who is better suited to your needs.

Do tattoos hurt?

While bamboo tattoos generally hurt less than traditional machine tattoos and are often easier to manage, the experience can vary. The pain level is influenced by individual tolerance and the specific area being tattooed. While the bamboo technique may be slower, many find it more bearable compared to conventional methods.

What kind of tattoos do you specialize in?

I specialize in Polynesian tatau art and use the traditional Thai bamboo technique. This method involves drawing each design by hand directly onto the skin, ensuring that every tattoo is a unique and personal piece of art. My focus is on creating intricate and culturally significant designs that are deeply rooted in Polynesian tradition and tailored to each client’s body and preferences.

Can I get a tattoo if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, I do not tattoo individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, in accordance with health department recommendations. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both clients and their babies. I encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions regarding getting a tattoo during this time.

What safety and hygiene practices do you follow?

As the only tattoo studio on Phangan using the highest sterilizing techniques, we meet all hygiene standards to ensure the utmost safety. Our bamboo needles are single-use, pre-packed, and sterilized in an autoclave of Class B, which meets hospital and dental standards. Additionally, all equipment, including the bamboo sticks, is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before each session. We also clean and sterilize the studio bench, tables, and other surfaces daily. We are committed to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for our clients.

Can you cover up or fix an old tattoo?

Whether we can cover up or rework an old tattoo depends on the specific design and condition of the existing tattoo. Each case is unique, so please schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and see how we can best address them.

How can I reach you?

You can reach us via WhatsApp or Instagram Direct Message. Feel free to contact us through these channels for any inquiries or to schedule an appointment.

Do you have any credentials or awards?

Yes, I have been honored with over 48 awards for my work in Polynesian tatau art. These awards recognize my expertise and dedication to this traditional art form, underscoring the quality and craftsmanship of the tattoos I create.

What makes your tattoos unique?

My tattoos are unique due to the traditional Polynesian tatau art style and the use of the Thai bamboo technique. Each design is custom-drawn directly onto the skin, ensuring that every tattoo is a personalized piece of art reflecting individual stories and cultural significance.

How long have you been tattooing?

I have been tattooing since 2008, specializing in Polynesian tatau art. My extensive experience and dedication to this traditional technique allow me to create exceptional, bespoke tattoos for each client.

Do you offer consultations before the tattooing session?

Yes, I offer consultations to discuss your design preferences, style, and any personal meanings you want to include in your tattoo. This ensures that the final design is perfectly tailored to your vision and body.

How do I care for my new tattoo?

With our tattoos created using the traditional Thai bamboo technique, the healing process is generally faster and smoother compared to machine tattoos. To ensure optimal healing, please follow these guidelines:

Wait at least two hours after your tattoo before taking a shower.
Avoid swimming for at least two days.
Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight for about seven days.
On the first day, rest and avoid strenuous activities.
From the second day onwards, apply Bepanthen ointment or virgin cold-pressed coconut oil 2-3 times daily.

Following these steps will help promote proper healing and preserve the quality of your tattoo.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations are accepted, but we require sufficient notice to reschedule your appointment. Please provide at least 48 hours' notice to avoid any cancellation fees and allow us to accommodate other clients. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before your session may incur a loss of deposit.

How should I prepare for my tattoo appointment?

To prepare for your tattoo appointment, please follow these guidelines:

Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine 24 hours before your session.
Ensure you are well-hydrated and have eaten a good meal beforehand.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that provides easy access to the area being tattooed.
Shave the tattoo area the day or night before to minimize rash or irritation.
Take a shower before arriving to ensure the area is clean.
These steps will help ensure a smoother and more comfortable tattooing experience.

How long does a tattoo take to heal?

Generally, by the next day, you’ll feel as though the tattoo has always been there. While the tattoo may appear healed, it's normal to experience 'onion skin'—a condition where the top layer of your skin dries out and peels, similar to the effect of a sunburn. This is a natural part of the healing process and indicates that your skin is regenerating.

Do you offer custom tattoo designs?

All of our work is custom-designed and drawn directly on the skin. I start with a brief consultation to discuss your preferred style and the meanings you wish to incorporate. Based on this conversation, I will create a unique design tailored specifically to you and draw it on your skin before we begin the tattooing process.

Do you offer touch-ups?

Over the past decade, I have had to perform touch-ups on less than a handful of tattoos, typically in extremely difficult areas where clients were informed beforehand. However, if a touch-up is necessary, I am always committed to providing it to ensure your tattoo meets your expectations.

How old do I need to be to get a tattoo?

The legal age for getting a tattoo in Thailand is 18 years old. Minors under 18 must have parental consent to get a tattoo. We adhere to this regulation to ensure compliance with local laws and maintain professional standards.

Do you accept walk-ins?

While our studio primarily operates by appointment to ensure dedicated time for each client, we do welcome walk-ins if the studio is open. To confirm if we’re available, it’s best to contact us beforehand via WhatsApp. Feel free to visit the studio to view our work and make an appointment if you wish to schedule a session.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept payments via cash, PayPal (with the customer covering any transaction fees), and cryptocurrencies or if needed Wise. Please let us know before the session so we can choose the payment method that is most convenient for you.

What should I do if I have specific health concerns or conditions?

Please inform me of any health concerns or conditions before your appointment. This will help ensure that we take any necessary precautions and provide a safe tattooing experience.

Can you accommodate special requests or modifications to existing designs?

Yes, I’m happy to accommodate special requests or modifications to existing designs. We can discuss any changes or specific elements you’d like to incorporate during your consultation.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Yes, we offer gift certificates for tattoo sessions. They make a great gift for those who appreciate custom art and want to experience a unique tattoo. For more info please DM.

What should I do if I have a reaction to the tattoo?

While reactions are extremely rare, if you experience any unusual redness, swelling, or discomfort, please contact me immediately. I can provide guidance on how to manage the situation and ensure your tattoo heals properly.

Can I see examples of your previous work?

Absolutely! You can view examples of my previous work on my Instagram profile and website. This will give you a sense of my style and the quality of my tattoos.

Sebastian Kurz Bamboo Tattoo

"Very impressive, spiritual location, we felt very comfortable at Tiki, good music and top-class craftsmanship. Absolute recommendation!!! We will be back!"

Avraham Castro Bamboo Tattoo

"Tiki (Jay) Tattooed and designed about 50% of my body. The studio is very clean! Jay is an Absolutely amazing person to deal with. An Amazing artist and does AMAZING Tattoos!! All hands free drawing straight on my skin, my Tattoos looking so crispy and clean after years from my old to the newest Tattoo. (In my opinion and not only mine, Jay is the best bamboo style Tattoo artist)! Highly recommended Tattoo studio!"

Sören Henning Polynesian Tattoo

"If you want to have an original Maori tattoo done by hand, you should visit Tiki before getting down to business! He is a multiple award winner at worldwide tattoo conventions and above all a Maori himself!"

Rogier Perk Traditional Tattoo

"Great guy, great artist. The fact that I could speak Dutch with him really helped the process of the design and I am very happy with the result. He is very professional and has good hygiene standards. Tiki, thank you very much for this lifetime memory. All the best to you."

Katja Wessels Painless Tattoo

"I just had a very little tattoo... Great guy, he spontaneously took time to make it, everything was super clean and desinfected, the tattoo was very finely and exactly done. Didn't hurt at all. Thanks a lot!"

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Unlock Your Creative Potential

Discover the Art of Polynesian Design with Custom Procreate Brushes. At TattooCreater, we bring the rich heritage of Polynesian and Sak Yant tattoo designs right to your fingertips. Our carefully crafted Procreate brushes and stamps are perfect for digital artists, tattoo enthusiasts, and designers looking to create stunning Polynesian-inspired art. Designed by the expert artists at Tiki Tattoo Studio on the beautiful island of Koh Pha Ngan, our tools are crafted with a deep respect for tradition and a passion for modern creativity.

Make an Appointment

APPOINTMENT

Start with a chat about style and meaning, followed by Tikiroa sketching your designn for perfect fit and preview. After your approval, the unique tattooing begins. Share images, inspiration is welcome, but we create original art to respect cultural values and your personal story.

+66 89 048 2040

ADDRESS

116/19 M.1 Thongsala, Koh Phangan 84280

About Tiki Tattoo Studio