You have successfully navigated through the most challenging phase of the process and now you’ve decided it’s time to cover up your old tattoo. Perhaps it reminds you of a moment or choice you’d prefer to forget. Maybe a previous tattoo artist didn’t capture your vision. Or maybe you simply want a fresh work of art. No matter the reason, you are aware that it is time to acquire something new.

But this decision raises a number of questions. Where do you get a cover up tattoo? Are cover-ups done by all tattoo artists? The process of selecting a cover-up tattoo can quickly become overwhelming. Here are some tips to choose a cover up tattoo.

Consider Laser Tattoo Removal to Lighten the Tattoo

Your tattoo artist may suggest laser tattoo removal sessions to lighten the tattoo before attempting to cover it with a new design, depending on how dark and saturated your original tattoo is. The need for laser tattoo removal or fading depends on several factors, including the age of the original tattoo, its color scheme, the complexity of the new design, and how dark the original tattoo is. Having an old tattoo faded with laser tattoo removal can create an easier canvas to work with and possibly result in more vibrant artwork.

Research Experienced Cover Up Tattoo Artists

Working with someone who has experience with cover-up tattoos is essential, specifically when beginning your cover up journey. These artists know how to work with you to ensure the design you select can successfully hide your previous tattoo. They can provide ideas regarding color and style to ensure the old tattoo is fully covered.

When you’re looking for tattoo artists to work with, don’t be scared to request cover-up samples from tattoo artists’ portfolios, so you can see the work they’ve done. Additionally, prepare your questions in advance to make sure they’re a good fit.

Be Patient with the Cover-Up Tattoo Session

Tattoo cover-ups are often more intricate than a new tattoo on clear skin. Multiple sessions could be necessary to complete the process, depending on the size, color, and placement of the original tattoo, as well as the design of the cover-up.

Why Multiple Sessions? The process of a cover up tattoo session can be more complex because the artist may need to apply multiple layers of ink to effectively cover the existing tattoo design. This can include numerous stages of shading, coloring, and refining the new tattoo. Additionally, the artist may need to observe how your skin heals after each session before moving on to the next step.

Planning Your Sessions: It’s vital to be patient and work with your artist to schedule sessions that collaborate with your artist to plan sessions that give your skin enough time to recover in between. Rushing the process can potentially compromise the quality of the final outcome. Your artist will provide you with a timeline for the cover-up during your consultation, so you have a clear understanding of what to anticipate.

Cover Up Tattoo

Consider Color and Complexity

When it comes to hiding an existing tattoo, darker colors are your best friend as they mask previous work more effectively than lighter shades. Utilizing their skillful technique, an experienced tattoo artist can carefully blend different colors, resulting in a cover-up tattoo that avoids appearing as a uniform block of dark ink. They can suggest colors that complement the new design and blend nicely with the existing tattoo.

Choose a Design that Suits Your Old Tattoo

Cover ups are most effective when the design resembles or covers the old design of the tattoo. If you have a red rose that you don’t like, it’s easier to do something that can incorporate elements of a red rose rather than attempting to transform it into a blue dolphin. So, be realistic when choosing your motif and open to seeking professional advice.