The Art Of Cover-Up Tattoos
Cover-up tattoos are like a painter’s second chance on a canvas. They’re not just about hiding old ink; they’re about creating something new and beautiful. At CB Ink Tattoo, we’ve seen countless clients transform regrettable tattoos into stunning works of art. But before you jump into covering up that old flame’s name or that tribal armband from your college days, let’s break down what you need to know.
Brisbane's Cover-Up Experts
Cover-Up Tattoos Are Our Speciality!
What makes us Brisbane’s go-to shop for cover-ups?
We’re one of the only tattoo studios in Australia with a state-of-the-art, in-house laser tattoo removal service, meaning our artists are able to liaise with your laser technician to ensure just the right amount of ink is removed to ensure a perfect cover-up job.
The result is you saving a ton of cash compared to going to a traditional laser clinic, who won’t know when then skin is ready to be tattooed over!
Our super talented cover-up tattoo artists can transform the largest and least attractive design into something you’ll actually love looking at everyday!
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Several Incredible Cover-Up Tattoo Artists
We have several artists who do almost exclusively cover-up work, so they're extremely experienced in the nuances of this type of tattooing.
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In-House Laser Tattoo Removal Advice
If tattoo removal is required to get the desired outcome, our laser technicians will consult with our tattoo artists to ensure you only pay for the amount of treatments you actually need!
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Afterpay & Other Financing Options Available
With Afterpay and a bunch of other financing options available, you really don't need to keep putting off that cover-up job you know you deserve!
The Limitations of Cover-Ups
Here’s the truth: cover-ups aren’t magic erasers. They come with their own set of challenges and limitations. The existing tattoo’s size, colour, and location all play crucial roles in determining what’s possible. Dark, saturated colours are particularly tricky to cover. Remember, we’re not painting over your old tattoo – we’re working with it to create something new.
It’s crucial to understand that tattooing over existing ink is completely different from working on clean skin. Our artists will do their best to work with what they have, but it’s important to set realistic expectations for the outcome. The presence of old ink can affect how new colours appear and how details can be rendered. We’ll always strive for the best possible result, but the final outcome may differ from what you might expect with a tattoo on unmarked skin.
Size Matters in Cover-Ups
When it comes to cover-ups, size isn’t just important—it’s essential. A good rule of thumb is that your cover-up tattoo should be twice as big and twice as dark. This isn’t us trying to upsell you; it’s physics. A larger design gives us more room to work with, allowing us to incorporate the old tattoo seamlessly into the new design.
Laser Removal for Cover-Ups
Here’s a pro tip that’ll make your tattoo artist’s day: consider laser removal before your cover-up. Even a few sessions can significantly lighten your existing tattoo, giving us more options for your new design. At CB Ink, we’re proud to offer PicoWay laser removal – a cutting-edge technology that can treat a wide range of colours, including those stubborn blues and greens.
Breaking the Barrier with PicoWay
Many people have heard that blue ink can’t be treated with laser removal. Well, we’re here to tell you that’s old news. Our PicoWay laser can effectively target blue and green pigments, opening up a world of possibilities for your cover-up design.
Designing Your Cover-Up
When it comes to cover-up designs, not all ideas are created equal. Here’s a quick rundown of what tends to work well:
- Nature-inspired designs: Trees, and animals offer plenty of detail to work with
- Abstract patterns: These can effectively camouflage existing lines and shapes
- Dark, bold designs: Think traditional or neo traditional styles
And what to avoid:
- Minimalist designs: These often lack the coverage needed for a successful cover-up
- Light, pastel colours: These may not effectively hide darker existing ink
- Designs that closely follow the original tattoo’s lines: This can make the old tattoo more noticeable
The Cover-Up Process at CB Ink Tattoo
At CB Ink Tattoo, we don’t just cover up old tattoos – we transform them. Our process begins with a thorough consultation, where we assess your existing tattoo and discuss your vision for the cover-up. We’ll be honest about what’s possible and what might require some laser removal first.
Our artists are experts in cover-up techniques, using their knowledge of colour theory, design principles, and the latest tattoo technologies to create stunning results. We’re not here to sell you on hype or false promises – our work speaks for itself
Your Role in the Cover-Up Process
Remember, a successful cover-up is a collaboration. Come to us with an open mind and realistic expectations. Trust in our expertise, but don’t be afraid to share your ideas. The more information we have, the better we can create a design that not only covers your old tattoo but becomes a piece of art you’ll love for years to come.
At CB Ink Tattoo, we’re committed to delivering premium, high-quality tattoos – whether it’s your first ink or a cover-up. Our reputation as Australia’s highest-rated tattoo studio isn’t built on hype but on consistent, exceptional results. So, if you’re ready to transform that old tattoo into something amazing, give us a call. Let’s create some art together.
Seen enough? Book your cover-up tattoo today!