A cover up tattoo is a new design tattooed over the top of an existing tattoo, so the old tattoo is no longer visible or is part of the new piece of art. Basically, you’re getting a tattoo over a tattoo. 

People Get To Cover Up Tattoos For Many Reasons, Including:

  • The original tattoo was poorly done

  • The tattoo is a reminder of a difficult time in a person’s life

  • The tattoo faded or looks dated

  • They realize that the tattoo is offensive 

  • They want to incorporate the tattoo in a new design

The reasons for wanting a cover up are as varied as the people who want them. Of course, the effectiveness of a cover up depends on the original tattoo and the cover up design. Old, faded tattoos in light colors like blues and greens are much easier to cover than a brand new all-black tattoo. Some tattoos are good candidates for a few laser tattoo removal sessions to fade the tattoo before getting a cover up.

What Is A Cover Up / Reworked Tattoo?

Stencil of Black work Cover up of Necronomicon symbol and tentacles tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort based tattoo artist.
Black work Cover up of Necronomicon symbol and tentacles tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort based tattoo artist.
Stencil of Rays for a cross rework tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort based tattoo artist.
black and grey reworked cross with sun rays and last name tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort based tattoo artist.

4 Tips on How to Choose a Cover Up Tattoo

  1. Keep the Design Close to the Old Ink
    Choose a cover-up design similar in style to your existing tattoo for better blending and concealment.

  2. Consider Building on the Current Design
    Enhance the original tattoo by adding details, deepening colors, or expanding it into a larger, cohesive piece.

  3. Be Prepared for a Bigger Size
    Expect your cover-up tattoo to be the same size or larger than the original, which might also influence your choice between a cover-up and laser removal.

  4. Plan for More Maintenance
    Cover-up tattoos may require multiple sessions for full saturation and are more prone to fading, making proper aftercare crucial.

Before image of Tattoo on arm reading "EST 1999"
Tattoo Rework on forearm reading 'Est 1999' in large stylized script done by Erika Lawrence
Arm with intricate black and gray tattoo design featuring stylized letters and patterns done by Erika Lawrence
Stencil of Tree and mushroom coverup tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort based tattoo artist.
Cover Up Tattoo of a tree with green leaves, red mushrooms with white spots, and a snail on a person's arm Done by Erika Lawrence.
Stencil of Black and Grey Peony coverup tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort based tattoo artist.
Black and Grey Peony coverup tattoo created by Erika Lawrence, a Frankfort Illinois based tattoo artist.