Cover-Up Tattoos in Perth: Turning Old Ink into New Art

An old tattoo you no longer love does not have to stay that way. A well-planned cover-up can turn a faded name, a dated design or a piece that never healed well into artwork you are proud to show. Cover-ups are some of the most rewarding work we do at Primitive Tattoo, and also some of the most technical.

How a cover-up works

Tattoo ink does not sit on top of old ink like paint on a wall. A cover-up works by designing a new piece that uses darker tones, texture and placement to absorb and hide the old lines. That is why the design always starts with the old tattoo: its size, colour, darkness and where it sits on the body.

What makes a good cover-up design

• Bigger than the original. Most cover-ups need to be noticeably larger than the tattoo underneath.
• Darker and textured areas. Elements such as water, clouds, wind bars, scales, feathers, flowers and dark backgrounds are perfect for hiding old work.
• The right style. Japanese, blackwork, mandala and bold traditional work cover old tattoos far better than light fine line or soft watercolour.
• Flow with the body. A cover-up is a chance to build a bigger piece, like a half sleeve or back piece, that fits the shape of the body properly.

Is laser fading needed first?

Not always. Light or small tattoos can often be covered straight away. Very dark, heavily saturated or raised tattoos may need a few laser fading sessions first, which gives your artist far more freedom with the new design. We will tell you honestly at the consult which option suits your skin and your ideas.

Reworks: bringing old tattoos back to life

Sometimes the best answer is not to hide the old tattoo but to rework it: sharpening faded lines, adding shading and colour, or building new elements around it so it becomes part of a larger piece.

Travelling to Perth for a cover-up?

We regularly tattoo clients from regional Western Australia, mine sites and overseas. Bigger cover-ups usually take more than one session, so if you are on a FIFO roster or visiting Perth, tell us your dates and we will plan sessions around your time in the city.

Book a cover-up consultation

Bring clear photos of your current tattoo, or come in to Primitive Tattoo on Barrack Street, Perth, so our artists can see it in person. Book a free consultation and we will design a cover-up you will be proud of.