Tattoo Shop San Diego, CA - Remington Tattoo
  • Home
  • About Us
    • The Shop
    • The Artists
  • The Artists
    • Terry Ribera
    • Jasmine Worth
    • Chris Cockrill
    • Kristjan Olson
    • Isreal Caine
    • Bree Crest
    • Eric Whitman
    • Matt Wear
    • Sarah Genereux
    • Kris Kezar
    • Travis T.
  • Latest Work
  • Artwork
  • Tattoo FAQs
    • After Care Instructions
  • Friends
  • Contact Us
    • Contact Us
    • Directions

covering up old tattoo work

If you’re thinking about covering up old tattoo work, do some research before committing to a new design. The most important step is to select an artist that has experience covering up old tattoo work, as well as a style you love. The first step is to book a consultation with your tattoo artist to discuss ideas and confirm the best way to handle the design.

How Covering Up Old Tattoos Works

During your consultation, your tattoo artist will assess the shape, color, and size of your tattoo to determine the best cover up or retouching techniques. They may take photos or tracings of the original piece to help ensure alignment during the design process. Once the artist has confirmed that a cover up is possible, you can discuss colors and designs. It’s helpful to have reference images for tattoo options that you like. Whether you prefer traditional, illustrative, Japanes, or floral, consider selecting a tattoo design that is bigger and darker than your original piece. After you and your artist have agreed on an appropriate drawing, it’s time to start inking.

covering up old tattoo

The Tattooing Process

Similar to the typical tattoo process, the artist will print your new design onto a sheet with transferable ink. The ink transfer will be placed onto your skin with care to ensure the new lines merge correctly with the old tattoo work. The new tattoo will be deposited into the same layer of skin that the original design occupies. In many cases, using a darker or more vibrant color than the original piece will allow your tattoo artist to cover or camouflage the old work. The healing process will be similar for your cover up tattoo; make sure the area stays clean and moisturized. Read more about tattoo aftercare.

Contact an Artist
Contact Remington Tattoo Shop
Covering Up Old Tattoos

Covering Up an Old Tattoo vs. Refreshing

If your old tattoo work is faded or blurry, your tattoo artist may be able to retouch or refresh the original design. Refreshing an old piece is often easier than covering up old tattoo work, but you’ll need to work with your artist to determine what is possible. Book a consultation to learn more about tattoo retouching. 

sleeve cover up

Tattoo Cover Up Design Ideas

Depending upon the size and color of your original piece, covering up old tattoo work can provide endless options, including: 

  • Japanese sleeves or back pieces
  • Floral or illustrative designs
  • Animals or characters 
  • Tribal and geometric designs
  • Natural landscapes, plants, or trees
  • Crosses or other symbols

Look for larger pieces that are asymmetrical and bolder or darker than the original tattoo. Or get inspiration from our artists’ portfolios. 

Choosing A Tattoo Shop

When covering up old tattoo work, choose a shop that focuses on quality and safety. At Remington Tattoo we use sterilized equipment, new needles, and new inks for every client, every time. Our studio is recently upgraded with the latest technology, supplies, and sterilization techniques. Each of our artists offer a distinct perspective and style.  Get in touch to book an appointment or read our FAQ page for more information about the process.

Contact Remington Tattoo Shop
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Contact Brett Semrick Today

    Your Name (required)

    Your Email (required)

    Your Phone Number

    Subject

    Your Message

    Remington Tattoo Shop

    (619) 795-8915

    3009 Myrtle Ave. San Diego, CA 92104

    Business Hours:

    Monday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Tuesday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Wednesday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Thursday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Friday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Saturday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Sunday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm

    Remington Tattoo - SD Tattoo Shop

    Remington Tattoo Shop

    CALL US TODAY
    (619) 795-8915
    3009 Myrtle Ave.
    San Diego, CA 92104
    Monday - Sunday:
    12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    From San Diego
    • 805 South
    • Exit University Ave/North Park Exit
    • Turn left on University Ave
    • Turn left on 30th st
    • Turn left Myrtle Ave
    • Remington Tattoo is on the right.
    From Los Angeles
    • 5 South
    • 805 South
    • Exit University Ave/North Park Exit
    • Turn left on University Ave
    • Turn left on 30th st
    • Turn left Myrtle Ave
    • Remington Tattoo is on the right.
    © 2023 RemingtonTattoo.com
    Contact San Diego Tattoo Shop · Sitemap