6 Best Cover Up Tattoo Specialists in Brooklyn

A cover-up tattoo is a different kind of art form. Unlike working with a blank canvas, it’s a creative puzzle that requires technical mastery and a strong vision. The artist isn’t just drawing a new image; they are strategically using color, depth, and composition to absorb and completely camouflage old ink. It’s part magic, part science. Because of this complexity, not every tattooist is equipped for the job. You need someone who understands how new pigments interact with old ones and how to design a piece that looks intentional, not like a patch. Your search for a cover up tattoo specialist in Brooklyn should be focused and deliberate. Here, we’ll break down the skills that matter, how to review a portfolio for this specific work, and what to expect from the process.

Key Takeaways

Vet Your Artist’s Cover-Up Skills: Don’t just look at an artist’s general portfolio; seek out their specific before-and-after cover-up work. This is a specialized skill, and you need someone who proves they can successfully hide old ink, not just create a pretty design.
Be Realistic About Your New Design: Understand that a cover-up will almost always need to be larger and darker than the original tattoo. Be open to your artist’s suggestions, as they know how to use color and composition to effectively hide the old piece.
Prepare for a Bigger Investment: Cover-ups are more complex and time-consuming, which means they typically cost more than a standard tattoo. Plan your budget accordingly and commit to proper aftercare to protect your investment and ensure the new art heals perfectly.

What to Look for in a Cover-Up Tattoo Artist

Finding the right artist for a cover-up is a different ballgame than picking one for a fresh piece of skin. This isn’t just about style; it’s about technical skill and creative problem-solving. A cover-up requires an artist who can work with, and completely transform, an existing tattoo. They need to be part artist, part magician.

So, before you book that appointment, let’s talk about what separates a great cover-up artist from the rest. It comes down to their specific experience and how well you read their portfolio. Choosing an artist is a big decision, and for a cover-up, it’s even more important to find someone whose work you trust completely. The right person will not only hide the old ink but give you a new piece you’re excited to show off for years to come.

The Skills and Experience That Matter

Not every tattoo artist is a cover-up specialist. It’s a unique skill that requires more than just a steady hand. A great cover-up artist has a deep understanding of how to use new ink to hide old lines and colors. This involves a strong grasp of color theory, knowing that a new blue over faded black might just create a muddy mess. They need the vision to design something beautiful that also strategically conceals what’s underneath. Choosing an artist with proven experience in cover-ups is crucial. Our team of handpicked artists has the background to tackle these complex projects. Remember, trying to save money with a less-experienced artist often backfires, leading to a tattoo you’re still not happy with and more costs later.

How to Review Their Portfolio

An artist’s portfolio is your best friend during this process. It’s the most direct way to see their capabilities. When you’re looking, don’t just scroll through their coolest designs—actively search for their cover-up work. Many artists will have a dedicated section for it. If not, don’t be shy about asking to see before-and-after photos. Pay close attention to the “after.” Can you see any ghosting of the old tattoo? A successful cover-up should look like it was the intended design all along. Look for artists who use clever patterning, rich texture, and smart detailing to hide the old piece, rather than just blasting over it with a dense, dark shape. The goal is a new tattoo you love, not just a patch.

The Best Cover-Up Tattoo Artists in Brooklyn

Finding the right artist for a cover-up is a big deal. You need someone with a specific skill set who can see the potential for a new piece of art where an old one currently sits. It’s about more than just hiding something; it’s about transformation. Luckily, Brooklyn is home to some incredible talent ready to take on the challenge. We’ve rounded up a list of the best shops in the borough known for their stellar cover-up work, starting with our own talented crew.

Wild Heart Tattoo Shop

Here at Wild Heart, we live for a good transformation. A cover-up isn’t just about erasing the past; it’s about creating a future you’re excited to wear on your skin. Our team of artists specializes in turning unwanted ink into beautiful, custom designs that feel completely new. We take the time to understand your vision and collaborate with you to design a piece that not only conceals the old tattoo but stands on its own as a work of art. We pride ourselves on our welcoming, professional environment where you can feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process.

More Top-Rated Artists in Brooklyn

While we’d love to work with you, we know it’s all about finding the perfect fit. Here are some other fantastic shops in Brooklyn with a strong reputation for cover-up tattoos.

Three Kings Tattoo

The team at Three Kings Tattoo is celebrated for its diverse range of styles and deep bench of talented artists. They have a solid reputation for cover-ups, with artists who excel at creating intricate, thoughtful designs that completely mask previous tattoos. What makes them stand out is their emphasis on collaboration. They work closely with you to brainstorm ideas and ensure the final piece not only covers the old ink but also reflects your personal style. Their artists are skilled at using composition and color theory to make old tattoos disappear.

Gristle Tattoo

If you’re looking for a truly artistic approach to your cover-up, Gristle Tattoo is a fantastic choice. The artists here are masters of reimagining old tattoos and transforming them into fresh, vibrant pieces of art. They have a knack for taking on challenging projects, whether it’s a dark, dense tattoo or an awkwardly placed design. They pride themselves on their ability to work with the existing lines and colors to create something entirely new and beautiful. Their portfolio is filled with creative solutions that prove almost any tattoo can be covered with the right vision.

Smith Street Tattoo Parlour

A true institution in Brooklyn, Smith Street Tattoo Parlour has a long-standing reputation for exceptional, classic tattooing. While known for their bold, traditional style, their artists are also incredibly skilled in the art of the cover-up. They often use powerful lines, rich color saturation, and clever designs to completely obscure old ink, leaving you with a timeless piece that looks like it was the plan all along. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction makes them a top choice for anyone looking to replace an old tattoo with a bold new one.

Saved Tattoo

Renowned for its world-class artistic talent and professionalism, Saved Tattoo is another excellent option for cover-up work. The artists here are known for their ability to seamlessly blend new designs over old ones, creating a cohesive and beautiful final piece. They work closely with clients to develop a concept that feels personal and intentional, ensuring the new tattoo is something you’ll cherish for years to come. Their fine art approach means your cover-up won’t just be a cover-up; it will be a thoughtfully composed piece of art that tells a new story.

Magic Cobra Tattoo Society

Magic Cobra Tattoo Society is a unique shop that prides itself on a creative and highly personalized approach to tattooing. The artists are well-versed in cover-ups, often using innovative techniques and imaginative designs to turn old tattoos into new masterpieces. Their process is deeply collaborative, ensuring you’re involved in every decision from the initial concept to the final line. They excel at finding clever ways to incorporate or completely hide old ink, making them a great choice if you’re looking for a truly custom and creative solution for your cover-up project.

How to Choose the Right Artist for Your Cover-Up

Finding the right artist is the single most important step in your cover-up journey. Not every artist specializes in cover-ups, which are a unique skill set requiring creativity, vision, and technical expertise. You’re not just getting a new tattoo; you’re transforming an old one. This means you need an artist who understands how to work with existing lines, colors, and scar tissue to create something beautiful that will last. The goal is to find a professional you can trust to turn a piece you dislike into one you’ll love for years to come. At Wild Heart, our team of artists has the experience to guide you through this process.

Nail the Consultation

Your consultation is more than just a quick chat; it’s a strategy session for your new ink. This is your chance to share your vision, discuss what you dislike about the old tattoo, and hear the artist’s professional opinion. A great artist will be honest about what’s possible and work with you to design a piece that effectively conceals the old one. Trying to save money by picking a less-experienced artist often backfires, leading to a subpar tattoo that might need another fix down the line. A thorough consultation ensures you and your artist are on the same page, setting the foundation for a successful cover-up.

Read Client Reviews and Testimonials

Before you commit, do a little homework. Start by looking through an artist’s portfolio, paying special attention to their before-and-after cover-up photos. This is the best evidence of their skill. Do the new designs completely hide the old ones? Do they look vibrant and well-integrated, or dark and muddy? Reading client reviews can also offer insight into the artist’s process and professionalism. It’s a good idea to consult with a few different artists to compare their styles and how they propose to tackle your specific piece. This helps you make a confident and informed choice.

Prioritize Health and Safety

Your health and safety should always come first. A reputable tattoo shop will be clean, professional, and transparent about its sterilization procedures. Don’t be afraid to ask about their practices—a good shop will be happy to show you. Most professional studios, including ours, offer consultations to discuss your design, placement, and pricing before you ever get in the chair. This is a sign that they value client communication and safety. You can learn more about our shop’s commitment to providing a clean and welcoming environment on our info page. Never compromise on safety for a lower price.

Common Cover-Up Myths, Busted

There are a lot of myths floating around about cover-ups, so let’s clear a few things up. One common misconception is that the new tattoo has to be massive and solid black. While cover-ups are typically larger and darker than the original, a skilled artist can use clever design and color theory to create something that doesn’t look like a heavy patch. Another myth is that you can see the old tattoo underneath. When done correctly, the old ink should be completely disguised. The right artist can transform your old tattoo into a seamless new piece of art you’ll be proud to show off.

How Do Cover-Up Tattoos Actually Work?

Getting a cover-up tattoo is more than just putting a new image over an old one; it’s a delicate art form that blends science and creativity. The process isn’t about erasing the old ink. Instead, a skilled artist uses new pigment and a clever design to absorb and camouflage the existing tattoo. When the new ink is deposited into the same layer of skin as the old ink, the colors mix. A talented artist knows exactly how to use color theory and design principles to create something beautiful and new, making the old piece a distant memory. This is why choosing an experienced cover-up artist is the most important step you can take.

Using Color to Conceal Old Ink

Color is one of the most powerful tools in a cover-up. Since the new ink mixes with the old, your artist will use darker colors to effectively hide what’s underneath. Think of it like using a marker on a painted canvas—the new color sits on top but also blends with the color below it. This is why old, faded tattoos with light blues and greens are easier to work with than fresh, dark black tattoos. Your artist will likely use a palette of dark blues, browns, and black to ensure the old design is completely obscured. They’ll use their knowledge of color theory to prevent the old ink from peeking through and muddying the new design over time.

Smart Designs That Hide Old Tattoos

A successful cover-up relies on a design that is much more than just a dark patch. The goal is to create a new focal point that distracts the eye from the original tattoo. An artist will use strategic elements like heavy detailing, intricate patterns, and rich textures to draw attention away from any underlying lines. This is why cover-up tattoos are almost always significantly larger than the original piece. The extra space gives the artist room to work their magic, using shading and composition to create depth and movement. A truly great cover-up doesn’t just hide the old tattoo; it uses its flow and shape to build a stronger, more dynamic new design.

Modern Cover-Up Techniques

Today’s artists have a range of techniques to ensure your cover-up is a success. A skilled professional will often find ways to incorporate elements of the old tattoo into the new one, using existing lines to create a more cohesive and integrated piece. However, sometimes the old tattoo is too dark or prominent for an immediate cover-up. In these cases, your artist might recommend a few sessions of laser tattoo lightening. This doesn’t remove the tattoo completely but fades it enough to give your artist a better canvas to work on. This step opens up more possibilities for the new design and color palette. The best first step is always a consultation to discuss your options.

How to Budget and Prepare for Your Cover-Up

Getting a cover-up is a bigger commitment than getting a tattoo on fresh skin, both for you and your artist. It requires more planning, a bigger budget, and a bit of patience. But with the right preparation, you can transform a piece you no longer love into something you’re proud to show off. Thinking through the costs and setting clear expectations from the start will make the entire process smoother and ensure you walk away with a tattoo you truly adore. Let’s break down what you need to know to get ready for your cover-up appointment.

What Determines the Price?

First things first: cover-up tattoos generally cost more than standard tattoos. Your artist is not just creating a new design; they’re solving a puzzle. The final price tag depends on a few key things. The size and complexity of the new design are major factors—a larger, more detailed piece will naturally take more time. The colors and darkness of your old tattoo also play a big role, as your artist will need to use specific techniques and darker inks to effectively conceal it. Because of this extra work, you can expect hourly rates for cover-ups to be slightly higher, often ranging from $100 to over $300.

Average Cover-Up Costs in Brooklyn

Here in Brooklyn, you’ll find a wide range of pricing, but most cover-up projects start at around $150 and go up from there. A small, simple cover-up might land in the $200 to $500 range, while a medium-sized piece could be anywhere from $500 to $1,000. For large-scale work, like a full sleeve, you’ll be looking at a much bigger investment. The best way to get a clear and accurate number is to schedule a consultation. This allows an artist to see the old tattoo in person, discuss your vision, and give you a personalized quote. You can contact our shop to set up a time to chat with one of our artists.

Set Realistic Expectations

A successful cover-up is a true art form. It requires a deep understanding of color theory, layering, and composition to make an old tattoo completely disappear. Not every tattooist specializes in this kind of work, so it’s important to find an artist whose portfolio shows they have the right skills. Take your time looking through the work of our talented artists to see their cover-up projects. Be open to your artist’s suggestions, as they may need to make the new design larger or darker than you initially planned to ensure the old ink is fully hidden. Trusting their expertise is key to getting a result you’ll love for years to come.

Follow the Right Aftercare Steps

Once your beautiful new tattoo is done, the work isn’t over just yet. Following proper aftercare is crucial, especially for a cover-up. The area may be more sensitive, and diligent care ensures the new ink heals vibrantly and the old tattoo stays hidden. Sometimes, as the new tattoo settles, faint parts of the old one might peek through. Don’t panic—this can happen! Reputable artists understand this and often include a free touch-up session as part of their service to address any spots that need a little extra attention after the initial healing. You can find our detailed aftercare instructions to help you through the healing process.

Your First Cover-Up? Here’s What to Do

Getting a cover-up can feel a little intimidating, but it’s an exciting way to reclaim your skin with a piece of art you truly love. The key is collaboration between you and your artist. Think of it as a team effort to create something beautiful that works with what’s already there. With the right approach and a clear plan, you’ll be on your way to a tattoo you’re proud to show off.

Questions You Should Ask Your Artist

Your consultation is the perfect time to get on the same page with your artist. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Start with the big one: “Is a cover-up the best option for me?” A skilled tattoo artist can advise whether you can cover it directly or if tattoo lightening via laser is a better first step. Also ask about size and design. Generally, a cover-up tattoo needs to be larger than the original. Ask how they plan to use new patterns and color to hide the old tattoo. This conversation will help you find an artist whose vision aligns with yours. Check out the portfolios of our talented artists.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

Once you’ve booked your appointment, a little preparation goes a long way. Trust your artist, as cover-ups require a unique skill set. A good artist has a deep understanding of color theory and knows how to create a new design that cleverly conceals the old one. It’s a myth that a cover-up has to be massive and dark. While usually bigger, a talented artist can integrate old lines into a new, vibrant piece. Before your appointment, keep your skin healthy and moisturized, and avoid sun exposure. For more tips, check out our shop’s info page.

What to Expect on Tattoo Day

On the day of your appointment, your artist will place the new stencil over your old tattoo to show you how it will be covered. The process involves layering new ink over the old, using darker pigments and details to draw the eye away from the previous design. It’s completely normal for faint lines from the old tattoo to peek through after healing. Your skin is a living canvas, and ink settles in unique ways. Reputable artists understand this and often include a free touch-up session to perfect the piece. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my cover-up tattoo have to be huge and solid black? Not at all. While cover-ups are almost always larger and darker than the original tattoo, a skilled artist can do much more than just place a dark blob over it. They use clever design elements like rich textures, detailed patterns, and strategic shading to create a new focal point. The goal is to draw the eye to the new art, making the old design disappear within a beautiful, dynamic piece, not just a heavy patch.

Can any tattoo be covered, no matter how dark it is? Most tattoos can be covered, but very dark, dense, or poorly done pieces present a real challenge. In these situations, your artist might suggest a few sessions of laser lightening first. The goal isn’t to completely remove the old tattoo, but to fade it significantly. This gives your artist a much better canvas to work with and opens up a wider range of possibilities for the new design and color palette.

Will I still be able to see my old tattoo after the cover-up is done? When a cover-up is done correctly by an experienced artist, the old tattoo should be completely disguised. However, skin is a living canvas, and as the new tattoo heals and settles, it’s possible for faint traces of the old ink to peek through. This is normal, and reputable artists anticipate it. Most will include a free touch-up session after the initial healing period to address any spots that need a little more work.

Why do cover-up tattoos typically cost more than regular tattoos? A cover-up requires more than just artistic skill; it demands technical problem-solving. Your artist isn’t working with a blank slate. They have to spend extra time and creative energy designing a piece that not only looks great on its own but also strategically conceals the lines, colors, and shape of the old tattoo. This complexity and additional planning are reflected in the price.

What is the single most important step for getting a great cover-up? Without a doubt, it’s choosing the right artist and having a thorough consultation. This is not the time to look for a bargain. You need to find a professional whose portfolio shows strong, successful cover-up work. The consultation is your chance to discuss what’s possible and align on a vision. Trusting your artist’s expertise is essential, as they know what it takes to transform an old piece into something you’ll love.

Top 7 Cover Up Tattoo Specialists in Brooklyn