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Cover-up tattoos, everything you need to know

What is a cover-up, and how does it differ from a regular tattoo?

At its most basic, a cover-up tattoo is a tattoo that covers another tattoo. That’s it. Simple in theory, but in practice, it’s anything but.

Cover-ups are a unique challenge as a tattoo artist. There are many factors that need to be considered, from the age, colour, density, and placement of the existing tattoo, to the condition of the skin itself. Every cover-up is different, and no two situations are approached the same way.

My biggest goal when creating a cover-up is to give you a new tattoo that you genuinely love. This comes with its own set of challenges, as there can often be negative experiences or emotions tied to the tattoo being covered. I understand that an enormous amount of trust goes into getting tattooed, and even more so with a cover-up, especially if something didn’t feel “right” the first time.

For the best possible result, it’s important that clients are open to creative freedom, particularly with cover-ups. Successfully hiding an existing tattoo and drawing the eye away from what’s underneath usually requires the new tattoo to be larger, darker, or more detailed than the original. If ideas, placement, or size are too restrictive, it may mean I’m unable to take on the cover-up at all.

One key thing to keep in mind is that fine line tattoos are generally not suitable for cover-ups, unless the tattoo being covered is already very light, small, or fine itself. In most cases, the new design needs enough visual weight, through contrast, colour, layering, or detail, to do the job properly.

I’m confident I can cover almost any tattoo by following these principles, but the process itself is rarely simple. Cover-ups often require a follow-up session once the tattoo has healed, so we can assess how the new ink has settled over the old work and whether any touch-ups are needed. This is very common. In some cases, multiple passes are required, which can’t be done in a single sitting in order to avoid unnecessary trauma to the skin, especially if the area is already scarred or compromised from previous work.

It’s also worth saying that not all tattoos that are covered are “bad” tattoos. You might simply no longer connect with it, or your taste may have changed over time, even if the original tattoo was well executed. Whatever your reason for wanting a cover-up, it’s personal, and I won’t pry.

Is my tattoo suitable for a cover-up?

A good starting point is to ask yourself whether your new idea will be bigger, darker, or more detailed than your existing tattoo. If the answer is yes, then it is worth reaching out to me to discuss your idea, and I can guide you further from there.

To enquire, simply fill out my booking form and include a clear, well-lit photo of your current tattoo so I can properly assess what I will be working with. If you are local, I am also happy to book a face-to-face consultation. In some cases, I can draw examples directly onto your skin to show what may be possible.

When it comes to pricing, most cover-up tattoos are booked as a full day session, unless the tattoo is very small. This is because cover-ups generally require more planning, design work, and time on the day compared to a standard tattoo.

Will the old tattoo be completely hidden or invisible?

I would love to say the answer is 100% yes, but the reality is that it depends. Based on the design and all the factors mentioned above, there are situations where parts of the original tattoo may still subtly show through. Sometimes this is unavoidable.

That said, complete invisibility is not always necessary for a successful cover-up. In some cases, I intentionally use elements of the existing tattoo as part of the new design. Occasionally, slightly darker areas or scarred skin may show through under certain lighting, but the new tattoo will be doing its job. To anyone else, it will simply read as a complete, cohesive tattoo, not a cover-up.

How much creative control will I have?

Working collaboratively is important to me. My goal is for us to create a tattoo together that you feel proud of and confident wearing. Your input, preferences, and comfort are always valued and are an essential part of my process.

However, there are situations where a specific idea or approach may not be suitable for a cover-up, or where it may simply not be possible to achieve a good result. In those cases, I will be honest with you and explain why, and we can discuss alternative options where appropriate.

Do you do re-works or laser lightening?

Yes, I do re-works. These still fall under the category of cover-up tattoos, but rather than fully covering an existing tattoo, the focus is on refreshing, adjusting, or building upon what is already there. You might like your tattoo overall but want to change certain elements, refine details, or add to it. All of this is considered a rework.

Whether a rework is possible will depend on a few factors. This includes whether my style of tattooing is suited to your existing tattoo, and whether a full cover-up may ultimately be the better option. In some cases, laser removal or lightening may also be worth considering.

I do not offer laser removal services, and recommend contacting a qualified laser technician who can guide you through that process. I am, however, happy to tattoo over areas that have already been lasered. Even one or two laser sessions can significantly increase what is possible when it comes to reworking or covering a tattoo.

If you are unsure which option is best for you, please feel free to reach out and I can offer guidance based on your specific situation.

How do I get in contact with you?

The best way to get in touch is by filling out my booking form. I aim to respond within the week.

You can also view more of my work on Instagram and are welcome to send me a direct message there. Please note that I am a one-person business and appreciate your patience while I juggle tattooing, admin, and personal affairs.

Thank you.