If you find yourself staring at a tattoo you got in college, now faded and disconnected from who you are now, a change might be just what the doctor recommends. The right tattoo coverup idea is the fresh start you need.
Before you get a tattoo coverup, seek professional advice. Understanding what makes a coverup tattoo look good is crucial. This article will explore these pre-tattoo considerations in detail.
We’ll also uncover some of the best creative tattoo coverup ideas to transform your old ink into a masterpiece. From colour theory to intricate designs, there’s a lot to explore.
Are you ready to wave goodbye to your old tattoo and uncover some of the best creative ideas for a tattoo coverup? Let’s get started.
Considerations for a Tattoo Coverup
Deciding to cover up an existing tattoo is not a minor decision, so you must think deeply about it and consider some factors before proceeding.
Below are some of the important factors you must consider.
Size and colour of the existing tattoo
Depending on size and colour, an existing tattoo can be difficult to cover up. If the tattoo is dark and a bit large, finding the right design to cover it effectively can be challenging, but there is still a way around it.
An experienced tattoo artist can cover a large black tribal tattoo with a detailed floral design, incorporating black ink into the new design.
Design and placement of the coverup tattoo
The kind of design you prefer for the coverup tattoo and where you want to place it also determines the final look. Regardless of your decision, you must choose a design that complements your body and fits well with your style.
If you want to cover up a tattoo on your forearm, a design for the coverup would be one that wraps around your arm or extends down to your wrist.
Consult with a tattoo artist
A tattoo coverup is not something you just do because you don’t want your present tattoo.
Your skin condition and current tattoo need to be examined before a coverup is done. So, visit a professional tattoo artist for a consultation before you take the huge step.
Time and cost implications for a coverup tattoo
If your existing tattoo is complex or large, a coverup tattoo can be time-consuming and more expensive. That means you must budget accordingly and maybe prepare for multiple sessions.
In your consultation with a professional tattoo artist in Toronto, ask them how much a coverup tattoo will cost and let them advise you on the next steps, especially if you are on a budget.
Some big and complex tattoos cost hundreds of dollars and require multiple sessions over several months.
Aftercare and healing
The success of a tattoo coverup session extends beyond the Toronto tattoo shop. You must also think about aftercare.
Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and preserve the new tattoo’s quality.
Related Article: How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo To Heal
Future tattoo considerations
Take some time to think about the exact kind of tattoo you want. This will ensure you choose a design you’ll be proud to wear long term.
Otherwise, you’ll be back looking for another tattoo coverup soon enough.
Skin sensitivity and allergies
Some people may have sensitive skin or allergies to certain tattoo inks. Discuss any skin issues or allergies with your tattoo artist before getting a coverup tattoo.
For example, if you have a known allergy to red ink, your artist can avoid using it in the coverup design.
Emotional considerations
You should understand that covering up a tattoo is a personal decision, and you must consider how you feel about it before going forward.
If you need time to reflect on your reasons, please take it. If you’re covering up a tattoo that reminds you of a difficult time in your life, the new tattoo could represent healing and growth.
Looking for a tattoo shop in Toronto? Check Piranha Tattoo Shop
Creative Design Ideas for a Tattoo Coverup
Thanks to new discoveries and tattoo artists sharpening their skills, covering up a tattoo is now easier than it used to be.
Tattoo artists use several methods to come up with numerous tattoo coverup ideas. Here are some of the best ones:
- Shading: The shading technique involves the artist blending multiple shades of the same colour to saturate ink deep within the skin. What this does is simple— it hides the old ink and creates shadows and depth in the new design.
- Detailed designs: Mandala tattoos are a popular choice here. The technique uses intricate details of the coverup tattoo to draw attention away from the original tattoo.
- Larger tattoos: This is pretty straightforward. Your tattoo artist will design a coverup tattoo larger than the original. This helps camouflage the old tattoo.
- Colour theory: tattoo artists can also use colour theory to hide old ink. For example, the artist can use a deep orange tone to cover green or blue ink.
- Laser removal: For thick or heavy black ink, laser removal treatments may be required before a tattoo coverup session.
As we discussed in the previous section, it take an experienced tattoo artist’s input to choose the best designs to cover up your tattoo.
With that in mind, here are some of the best tattoo coverup ideas? Let’s find out.
Incorporate nature elements
Using nature is one of the most basic ways to cover up an old tattoo. Any design that includes flowers, leaves, or vines would do. Your artist can use any to create a beautiful, organic coverup that blends seamlessly with your skin.
Use geometric patterns
Another exciting way to cover up a tattoo is to use geometric patterns. This will work well if the old tattoo has a simple design or shape, as the geometric pattern will add complexity and depth to the design and create the perfect new tattoo.
Opt for a watercolour effect
The watercolour effect creates a unique and artistic look, regardless of the old design. It uses soft, blended colour to create a painting-like effect on the skin.
Consider a Mandala design
A Mandala tattoo symbolizes balance and harmony. Anyone who understands them will see someone who prioritizes these qualities in life.
Explore abstract art
You can also try abstract art as a great way to cover up a tattoo. You may have to work with your tattoo artists to create a custom abstract design that reflects your style and personality.
Incorporate cultural symbols
If you have a connection to a particular culture or heritage, consider incorporating symbols or motifs from that culture into your coverup design. This can add a personal and meaningful touch to new ink on an old tattoo.
Opt for a blackout tattoo
A blackout tattoo involves covering a large skin area with solid black ink. This can be a dramatic way to cover up an old tattoo, creating a bold and modern look.
Blend old and new elements
If you want to keep some elements of your old tattoo, consider blending them with new elements to create a cohesive coverup design. For example, you could incorporate parts of the old tattoo into a larger, more complex design.
Add a Pop of Colour
If you want to add some colour to your coverup tattoo, consider adding a pop of bright colour to make the design stand out. This can be especially effective when covering up a dark or faded tattoo.
Create a Storyboard
Create a narrative design to tell a story with your coverup tattoo. You can choose a series of meaningful images or symbols arranged in a way that flows naturally across your skin.
Related Article: Tattoo Cover-Ups: Transforming Old Ink Into Fresh Arts
You Decide the Tattoo Coverup Design You Want
Whatever the reasons for a coverup, the takeaway is that your old tattoo shouldn’t hold you back. The first thing to consider is the advice of a tattoo artist with coverup experiences.
Other factors to consider are the costs, the aftercare, and skin sensitivity. When you’re ready to refresh an old tattoo, book an appointment with Piranha Tattoo Shop.
Our experienced artists will discuss creative tattoo cover-up ideas and help you breathe life into old ink. Call us at +1 905 605 9191 or send an email to piranhatattooshop@gmail.com.