The Art of Cover Up Tattoos
Transforming Regret into a Masterpiece
Tattoos are an incredible form of self-expression, but sometimes, our tastes, circumstances, or even the quality of the original work change over time.
Whether it's an old tattoo that no longer represents who you are, a poorly executed piece, or a reminder of a past chapter you’d rather close, cover-up tattoos offer a chance for a fresh start.
What Are Cover-Up Tattoos?
Cover-up tattoos are specially designed pieces that conceal or transform an existing tattoo into a new design.
Instead of full laser removal, which can be costly, painful and time-consuming, cover-ups allow you to work with a skilled artist to create something new over the old ink.
With the right approach, a cover-up can completely mask the previous design, leaving behind a work of art that you’ll love again.
The Challenges of Cover-Up Tattoos
Covering up an old tattoo isn’t as simple as layering new ink over the old one.
Some challenges include:
Darker Colors Required: The new design often needs to be darker and bolder than the original tattoo to ensure complete coverage. Keep in mind that light colors cannot cover dark colors.
Larger Design: A cover-up usually has to be bigger than the old tattoo to effectively hide it. It is best to be very flexible about your idea and be willing to get a new tattoo that is at least two to three times the size of the original tattoo. The larger size distracts the eye from the portion that is being covered up so it becomes less noticeable.
Age of the Previous Tattoo: The older the tattoo being covered up is, the more options there are for a successful cover up. Newly done tattoos are very difficult to cover because the colors are more saturated and your options will be very limited. A tattoo that is over 10 or 20 years old will have many more possibilities for the new tattoo.
Ink Blending: Over time, tattoo ink spreads slightly under the skin, which can affect how well a cover-up blends in. The old and new pigments will layer together and affect the appearance of one another.
Scar Tissue: If the original tattoo caused scarring, it can impact how well new ink settles in the skin. Sometimes a cover up tattoo may have had several attempts (a cover up of a cover up) which can lead to additional scarring. Some scar tissue is difficult to dedect by sight or feel, but scar tissue does not accept new ink as well as scar-free skin. Laser tattoo removal can also cause scarring which can affect the outcome of the new tattoo.
Choosing the Right Cover-Up Design
The best cover-ups are carefully planned to take advantage of the existing lines and shading. Skilled tattoo artists can integrate elements from the original tattoo into the new design or create something entirely fresh. Popular cover-up designs include:
Floral Patterns: Flowers and foliage are great for covering up old tattoos due to their organic shapes and vibrant colors.
Animals and Mythical Creatures: Complex details and shading in creatures like dragons, wolves, and phoenixes can effectively conceal previous ink.
Geometric and Abstract Art: Bold patterns and shading can mask unwanted tattoos while creating eye-catching effects.
Dark and Bold Imagery: Blackwork and neo-traditional work well for cover-ups due to their depth and detail.
Finding the Right Tattoo Artist
Not all tattoo artists are cover-up experts or even willing to do cover-ups, so it’s essential to find an artist with experience in successfully transforming old ink into new masterpieces.
Look for an artist who:
Has a strong portfolio showcasing previous cover-up work.
Is honest about what can and cannot be covered.
Works with you to design something that fits your vision while ensuring effective coverage.
Uses high-quality inks and techniques to ensure longevity and vibrancy.
Tips for a Successful Cover-Up Tattoo
Be Open to Suggestions: Your artist may suggest changes to your idea to ensure the best coverage and design.
Consider a Touch-Up: Some cover-ups may require a second session to ensure complete coverage and longevity.
Take Good Care of Your Tattoo: Proper aftercare will help the new tattoo heal well and look vibrant for years to come.
Be Patient: Sometimes, lightening the old tattoo with a few laser sessions before getting a cover-up can result in a better final design.
Ready for a Cover-Up?
Cover-up tattoos are a fantastic way to transform regret into something beautiful. With the right design and an experienced artist, you can reclaim your skin and wear a tattoo that truly represents you. Whether you’re concealing an outdated design or an old mistake, a cover-up tattoo is an opportunity to turn the past into a work of art. Once you have found a professional tattoo artist that you would like to work with to transform your old tattoo into something new, schedule a consultation so they can see your tattoo and discuss your ideas and possible options with you.
