Cover Up Tattoos

Not every tattoo ages the way we hope it will. Whether it’s an old tattoo that has faded, a design that no longer fits your style, or a tattoo that simply didn’t turn out the way you wanted, a professional cover-up tattoo can completely transform it.

We design custom cover-up tattoos that help clients move on from tattoos they no longer want. With the right design, placement, and technique, an old tattoo can often be turned into a completely new piece of artwork.

Cover-up tattoos require experience, creativity, and careful planning. Our tattoo artists work with each client individually to create a design that effectively covers the existing tattoo while still looking natural and intentional.

How Tattoo Cover-Ups Work

Cover-up tattoos are designed to mask or blend an existing tattoo using darker tones, stronger lines, and strategic design elements. In many cases, the new tattoo becomes larger and more detailed than the original in order to properly hide the old design.

During a cover-up consultation, our artists will evaluate:

• The size of the existing tattoo
• The colors used in the original tattoo
• The age and fading of the tattoo
• The placement on the body

From there, they will recommend design ideas that can successfully cover the tattoo while still creating something visually appealing.

In some situations, clients may choose to complete a few laser tattoo removal sessions before getting a cover-up. Lightening the original tattoo can create more flexibility in the design of the new piece.

Popular Cover-Up Tattoo Ideas

Because cover-up tattoos need strong structure and shading, certain styles work particularly well for covering older tattoos.

Common cover-up tattoo designs include:

• Roses and floral designs
• Skulls and dark realism pieces
• Animals and wildlife tattoos
• Mandalas and ornamental designs
• Japanese-style tattoos
• Large black and gray designs
• Traditional tattoos with bold color

Our artists will help you choose a design that both covers the old tattoo effectively and creates a piece you’ll be proud to wear.

Custom Cover-Up Tattoo Designs

Every cover-up tattoo at Tattoo Avenue is custom designed based on the tattoo being covered and the client’s ideas. Because no two tattoos are the same, cover-ups require a creative approach that balances design, shading, and placement.

Our artists can work with a variety of cover-up situations, including:

• Faded or aging tattoos
• Unfinished tattoos
• Poorly executed tattoos
• Name tattoos
• Tattoos you’ve simply outgrown

The goal of a cover-up tattoo is not just to hide the old tattoo—but to create a new tattoo that looks intentional and well-designed.

Work With Our Artists

If you’re interested in a tattoo cover-up, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our artists so they can evaluate your existing tattoo and discuss the best options.