Handpoke is the technique of using tattoo needles by hand. Each tattoo is created by gently poking ink under the surface of the skin. Designs are composed of thousands of small carefully placed dots.

Without the use of a machine, the process is quieter, calmer, and less invasive - meaning less discomfort and less trauma to the skin. Healing time can be shorter in comparison.

Because the handpoke method is less invasive than using a machine, the experience is generally more comfortable. However, this depends on other factors such as personal pain threshhold, tattoo placement, size and detail.

Most clients are pleasantly surprised at the sensation and relax into their tattoo experience. I always encourage short breaks when needed.

Yes. Handpoked tattoos are permanent. The result can often appear more organic compared to machine tattoos.

It entirely depends on the size and complexity of the design. If I offer you an appointment following submitting a booking request form, I will estimate the time needed.

I strongly advise that you don't make other plans the same day as your appointment. Sometimes the tattoo may take a little longer than expected, and should let your body rest afterwards as the healing process begins.

Please come to your appointment alone. The studio is small and it's difficult to focus with additional people in the room. Thanks for your understanding.

Deposit are payable online. Balance payments are in person at the end of your appointment via card machine.

Please see the Pricing page.

There are a few things which will make your appointment run smoothly and help it to be a great experience.

Please -

• Read all of the pre-care and after-care information and prepare accordingly.

• Arrive on-time, not early or late.

• Please come to your appointment alone.

• Arrive to your appointment sober.

• Allow plenty of time - Avoid making plans or appointments after your session incase we run over time. Tattooing cannot be rushed.

• Please do not apply numbing cream - It makes it very difficult to work with the skin and we will need to reschedule. A new deposit will be required.

Yes. All of the supplies I use are vegan. The aftercare packs also include vegan aftercare balm and a few vegan sweet treats.

On arrival I'll offer you a hot drink and always have vegan milk alternatives

available too.

It is important to make sure you don't have any medical conditions which could put you at risk by having a tattoo.

I can not tattoo you if you have any of the following conditions -

• Skin diseases or conditions on the placement area (including sunburn).

• HIV or other conditions where the immune system is severely compromised.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you have any other conditions (such as allergies, diabetes, a heart condition), or you are on any medications or undergoing treatment that make your skin hypersensitive, thin the blood, or compromise the immune system, please consult your GP before submitting a booking request.

You must be 18+ to have a tattoo.

Due to the delicate nature of my work, I don't offer cover-ups.

No. Purchases are deposits for tattoos to be done by Cath Pilling only. Designs are not for resale, reproduction, or tattooing by other artists. All designs are protected by copyright and must not be used for any other purpose.

Absolutely. I'll be guided by what you need - Just let me know at the start of your appointment (or ahead of time if you prefer).

It's very normal to feel anxious and nervous about having a tattoo, especially if it's your first one. I understand that for some people, this can be quite extreme.

I recommend that you are 100% sure that you would like a tattoo before completing the booking request form. If you complete the form, please add in the comments section if you are very nervous.

On the day, it's good to start the day positively with anything that make you feel calm and comfortable (apart from alcohol or other substances!). I will do my best to put you at ease. We will not rush - there will be plenty of time for a hot drink, a chat, and ensuring you are absolutely happy with the size and placement.

I play calm music, may have candle lit, and I will be guided by you in terms of whether you would prefer to talk or be quiet.

It's likely that you will be laying down for the duration, and I will try to make you as comfortable as possible. We can take as many breaks as you need.

Please let me know before or during your appointment if there is anything I can do to help you feel calm and comfortable.