5 Tips For Your Tattoo Cover-Up
Did you have a tattoo you no longer enjoy? You're not alone! Luckily, there are tattoo artists who specialize in cover-ups that can replace your old tattoo with a new design. That doesn't mean that the process will be easy. Without proper forethought, the new tattoo can end up worse than the original. Here are 5 tips for your tattoo cover-up.
1. Manage Expectations
Your cover-up tattoo appointment will not be the same as a typical tattoo. Your tattoo artist is limited by the colors, design, and size of the existing tattoo. In some cases, it will be next to impossible to completely remove the remnants of the original design. You should also go into the appointment with the understanding that the work may cost more than a traditional tattoo.
2. Don't Rush Your Decision
When you get a tattoo you regret, you may rush to get it covered without much thought about the details. You shouldn't get a tattoo cover-up until the original tattoo heals anyway. Get some heavy-duty makeup to buy yourself some time and plan your cover-up tattoo in advance to minimize the chance of a second mistake. Think hard about the design and get different drawings and quotes from different artists before making your final decision.
3. Choose Dark, Detailed Designs
You need colors and a design that will cover your old tattoo. Detailed, black tattoos are the best option. Of course, it depends on the original tattoo. Still, you probably don't want to take that chance.
4. Consider Your Tattoo Artist's Input
Trust your tattoo artist. Their input comes with experience and know-how. Furthermore, they know their own capabilities. Clients who go against their tattoo artist's suggestions may regret it after the fact.
5. Pay For Quality
The average professional tattoo cover-up costs anywhere from $50–$200 an hour. If you receive cheaper quotes, you should seriously question the quality of the work you will receive. Even within the average rate, the more expensive quotes usually represent the more talented artists.
There are a number of other factors that will go into how expensive your cover-up is, including the size and age of the original tattoo. Older, faded tattoos are easier to cover up than new vibrant ones.
People make mistakes. Sometimes that mistake is a permanent tattoo. You can still cover the tattoo with a new tattoo after the original one heals. Contact a local tattoo parlor to learn more about tattoo cover-ups.