Contents
When a cover-up is possible
A cover-up is a new tattoo over an old one. It is possible when the new design can be built so that the old one stops being readable: through the composition, the size and dense dark areas. There is no universal answer: each case is assessed individually.
Why an old tattoo cannot simply be “painted over”
The pigment in the skin does not disappear, and the new design is applied over it. A light or small new design will not hide a dark old tattoo. That is why a cover-up often needs a larger and denser composition than the original.
What the result depends on
- size of the old tattoo: the larger it is, the larger the new one has to be;
- density and colour: saturated dark areas are harder to cover;
- condition of the skin and scars;
- choice of the new sketch: the composition is built around the shape of the old design;
- your wishes: sometimes it is better to change the idea than to insist on the original one.
Why the existing work has to be examined
Photos give a general idea, but the decision is made after examining the tattoo: the density of the pigment, the condition of the skin and scars have to be assessed.
How we assess an old tattoo
Look at the work
We study the existing tattoo
Size and density
We assess what needs covering
Limitations
We determine what is possible and what is not
Direction
We choose the style and approach
New composition
We create a sketch to fit the shape of the old work
What to send for a preliminary assessment
So that we can prepare for the conversation, send three things.
For the assessment
The old tattoo
- a photo in good daylight;
- several angles if the area is curved.
The whole area
- a photo of the area to show its shape and size;
- mark what you want to keep.
References
- works you like;
- your wishes about style and colour.
If a cover-up is not advisable
Sometimes it is better to correct the old tattoo first or to choose another area. The artist will say honestly what is realistic and what is not, and will suggest an option.
Real TBK cover-ups
Poppies.
A full-back dragon.
Frequently asked questions
Can any tattoo be covered up?
No: it depends on the size, the density and the colour of the old work. The decision is made after an examination.
Will the new tattoo be larger than the old one?
Often yes: to hide the old design the new one has to be larger and denser. The size is discussed at the examination.
What do I need to send for a consultation?
A photo of the old tattoo in good light, the placement on the body and a description of what you would like to get.
Can a black tattoo be covered up?
Saturated dark areas are harder to cover: a larger and denser composition is often needed. Whether it is possible is assessed from a photo and at the examination.
Can a coloured tattoo be covered up?
It depends on how saturated and dense the colour is: bright and dark areas are harder to hide. It can only be assessed from a photo and at the examination.
Want to know if your tattoo can be covered up?
Send a photo of the old work and the area — we will assess the options.