The Process
WHAT MAKES A GOOD cover up tattoo?
Cover up tattooing is one of the most misunderstood services in the industry. The goal isn't to make an old tattoo disappear — it's to design something new that incorporates the old work so skillfully that the previous tattoo is no longer visible. Done well, it looks like a clean, intentional piece.
In Savannah, Drop Dead Tattoo and Savannah Ink Tattoo both take cover up consultations seriously. The most important thing they'll tell you upfront: cover ups require larger, darker, bolder designs than the original. Bold black & grey guide fills are among the most effective cover up methods. For classic designs, traditional tattoo guide work is another excellent option — the bold outlines and solid fills absorb old ink effectively.
"A good cover up artist shows you what's possible. A great one shows you what isn't — and saves you from a bigger mistake."
If your old tattoo is very dark or heavily saturated, laser removal sessions before tattooing can significantly expand your design options. Discuss this with your artist at the consultation. For fresh ink perspective, our first tattoo guide and how much does a tattoo cost in Savannah are useful reads.
What to Know
HOW TO DO IT right
CONSULTATIONS ARE MANDATORY
Cover up work requires seeing the original tattoo in person. Never book a cover up without a consultation — photos don't capture everything an artist needs to see.
BIGGER AND DARKER ALWAYS
The new tattoo must be larger and darker than the original. There are no exceptions. Any artist who says otherwise is overselling.
LASER OPENS MORE OPTIONS
Even 1–3 laser removal sessions to lighten an old tattoo can dramatically expand your cover up design options. Ask your artist if laser prep is worth it.
BOLD STYLES COVER BEST
American traditional, blackwork, and Japanese-style designs are the most effective. Fine line and watercolor are generally not viable cover up options. See our traditional tattoo guide guide.
MANAGE EXPECTATIONS
A cover up will not look the same as a fresh tattoo on clean skin. The best result is a strong, intentional piece where the old work isn't visible.
OLDER TATTOOS COVER BETTER
More faded tattoos cover more easily than fresh, saturated ones. If your tattoo is less than 5 years old and very dark, consider laser prep first.
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COMMON QUESTIONS
Who does cover up tattoos in Savannah?
Drop Dead Tattoo and Savannah Ink Tattoo both take cover up consultations. They'll give you an honest assessment of what's possible with your specific piece.
Can any tattoo be covered up?
Almost any tattoo can be covered, but the design options depend heavily on size, darkness, and placement. Consultations are the only way to get an accurate answer.
Do I need laser removal before a cover up?
Not always — but for very dark or saturated tattoos, even a few laser sessions can significantly expand your design options. Your artist will advise.
How much does a cover up tattoo cost?
Cover ups typically cost more than new tattoos of the same size — they require more planning and often more ink. See our how much does a tattoo cost in Savannah for a general breakdown.