Whether it’s a name you now regret, a horribly faded design, or a tattoo that just doesn’t reflect who you are anymore – you’re definitely not alone. Thousands of Australians explore tattoo cover up options every year, and the number is actually steadily growing. The good news? You have more choices than ever before.
The key?:
- Smart planning, being clear on your goals and steps.
- Clever design, we’ll share plenty of cover up tattoo ideas for right here.
- And a little help from Sydney laser tattoo removal specialists. A few sessions can fade your tattoo to give your artist more freedom to work with.
Considering a cover up? We’ve put together 11 tried-and-tested tattoo cover up ideas that actually work – plus a few important things to think about before you commit.
1. The classic – Ex name tattoo cover up
It’s probably the most common cover-up request of all time – the ex name tattoo cover up. Just ask Johnny Depp, whose infamous ‘Winona Forever’ was hilariously reworked into ‘Wino Forever’ after the pair split. He’s far from alone, though, as celebrity tattoo removal has become almost a rite of passage in Hollywood.
Whether it’s your ex-partner, a friend, or someone from another lifetime, names are personal – and tricky. Depending on the size, font and placement, your options might include:
- Reworking the letters into a meaningful quote or symbol
- Integrating it into a larger piece (like a sleeve)
- Fading it with laser first, so your artist can start with a cleaner canvas.
Names may be simple, but covering them effectively takes planning. That’s where consulting both a tattoo artist and a laser specialist can make all the difference.
2. Covering up a scar
Thinking about replacing a scar with a tat? What a great idea! But bear in mind that scar tissue reacts differently to tattoo ink. That’s why a scar cover up tattoo needs special care – both in design and technique.
- Raised or keloid scars may not hold ink well
- Older, faded scars are generally easier to cover
- Lighter pressure, specific pigments, and custom shading techniques can help.
If you have a scar you’d like to hide – whether it’s from surgery, injury, or another tattoo – speak with an experienced artist who’s done this kind of work before. And remember: laser may be a difficult option for scar tissue, so a great design, a great artist, and a great laser specialist, all become even more important.
3. Flower power – The natural choice
Florals are among the most popular cover up tattoo ideas – and for good reason. They’re versatile, elegant, and work across almost every style, from watercolour to traditional, fine line to neo-traditional.
A flower cover up tattoo can:
- Mask old outlines with flowing petals and vines
- Blend old shapes into new floral compositions
- Add colour and movement to redirect attention.
Whether it’s roses, peonies, lilies or native blooms, florals are timeless and perfect for softening or transforming older ink.
4. Going bold – Tattoo cover up BLACK
Sometimes, although it may seem counterintuitive, the best way to cover an old tattoo is to go DARKER – and tattoo cover up black is a bold choice that’s grown in popularity. Blackout tattoos use dense black ink to mask large areas, or create graphic, geometric effects that draw focus away from the original piece.
It’s not for everyone, but if you’re looking for a strong statement piece or dealing with very old, faded ink, black may be the cleanest route.
JUST NOTE: Solid black requires proper aftercare and fading over time, so make sure you’re committed to the aesthetic. For those rethinking the look down the track, blackout tattoo removal is possible – though it takes time, patience, and the right technology.
5. When the original ink is already dark
If you’re trying to rework something that was heavily shaded or already dark, you’ll need a strategy. A good dark tattoo cover up isn’t just about hiding the old – it’s about distracting from it with contrast, depth and clever layering.
Many artists will recommend:
- Laser fading to soften the darkest areas
- Using bold, high-contrast imagery like animals, portraits or mythical symbols
- Avoiding delicate or light designs unless fading has occurred.
Covering a dark tattoo without laser first can be restrictive, but not impossible. Choosing the right artist is essential.
6. Wrist cover up tattoo
The wrist is a very high-visibility area – which makes a wrist cover up tattoo especially important to get right. It’s often requested for small symbols, words or names that no longer serve a purpose.
Challenges include:
- Limited space
- Thinner skin, which may have faded unevenly
- Movement and friction from watches or clothing.
The solution? Minimalist or well-shaded designs that follow the shape of the wrist and draw focus to the new ink – not what was underneath.
7. Finger tattoo cover up
A finger tattoo cover up can be tricky. Why’s that? Because the skin on fingers doesn’t hold ink very well at all, and fading is very common due to frequent use and sun exposure.
If you’re looking to cover an old ring tattoo, initials or symbols:
- Opt for bold, simple designs
- Avoid overly detailed work
- Seriously consider laser fading first, to give your artist more room to work.
In fact, laser tattoo removal fading can very easily give your artist a totally clean-slate. But remember: Small doesn’t mean simple. Finger covers require extreme precision.
8. Female-friendly designs
When it comes to female dark cover up tattoos, we often see a preference for designs that balance strength and beauty. Popular choices include:
- Mandalas
- Dreamcatchers
- Birds or butterflies
- Feminine florals with bold line work.
These designs do a great job of adding flow and shape, while still offering enough depth to mask what’s underneath. If you’re looking to rework a piece that no longer fits who you are, this is a great way to reclaim the space with confidence and style.
9. Full sleeve or partial rework
If your old tattoo is part of a bigger area – an upper arm, or your back – you might consider turning it into a larger piece! A cover up tattoo doesn’t have to be confined to the old lines or size. Many artists will recommend expanding the design to balance everything out.
This allows:
- Better blending of new and old ink
- Opportunity for bolder, more creative designs
- A more seamless, integrated final result.
10. Abstract & geometric covers
Not every cover up needs to be literal. Abstract, dotwork or geometric designs can often mask older pieces beautifully – especially if you’re open to creative interpretation.
These are especially useful for faded tribal tattoos or outdated lettering.
11. Layered + laser = Best results
Remember: Not all cover-ups start with a fresh tattoo. Sometimes, laser fading or complete removal first is what allows for a truly successful redesign.
So, before committing to your tattoo cover up, consult with a removal specialist (like us) to assess the old ink. Fading it first can:
- Give your tattoo artist more options
- Help colours show up more clearly
- And reduce the need to go bigger or darker than you originally wanted.
Let’s talk about your cover up plan
The best tattoo cover up stories start with honest advice. At Renude, we’ve helped thousands of clients fade or completely remove old tattoos to make room for something better. If you’re planning a new piece or feeling stuck with ink that no longer fits, we’re always right here to help you explore your options – no pressure, no judgement.
Looking for a:
- Light fade
- Full removal
- Or guidance on what’s possible?
Located in Lane Cove, our laser tattoo removal team is always here to support you. We are within minutes drive from Balmain, Willoughby, Mosman, Chatswood and surrounding suburbs. Book your free consultation today and let’s plan a clean slate – the right way.
