Tattoo styles · Dublin
Cover-up tattoos in Dublin
A new design, planned around the ink already there.
The examples below show each approach on skin. Check the artist credits to follow a portfolio, or ask about your own subject through the enquiry form.
Your consultation
About the work
A cover-up works with an existing tattoo rather than a blank area of skin. Its colour, density, size and placement all affect what a new design can do. Clear photographs help us make an initial assessment before discussing the possibilities with you.
Your artist may suggest a different size or composition to give the new subject enough coverage and contrast. We’ll explain why, including any limits or additional preparation that need consideration. You can decide whether the proposed direction suits you.
Include a close photograph and a wider view of the area, alongside references for the new tattoo. The consultation is time to assess the starting point and agree a realistic plan.
Questions you may have
01Can every tattoo be covered?
Not every tattoo can be covered in the way you first propose. Existing ink, skin and the new design need assessment; we’ll explain the options and limits.
02What photographs do you need?
Send a clear close view and a wider photograph of the placement in good light. Add references for the new direction you want to discuss.
03Will I need several sessions?
It depends on the coverage, detail and starting point. Your artist will explain the proposed stages after assessing the existing tattoo.
04Can delicate lines cover a dark tattoo?
Delicate marks alone often cannot provide the coverage a dense tattoo needs. We’ll discuss the scale, contrast and composition required for your particular piece.
05Can I arrange a cover-up on the day?
A cover-up usually needs assessment and preparation ahead of the appointment. Send photographs first so we can discuss what is involved.
06Will I need laser treatment first?
Some projects may need lightening before a new design can work. We’ll assess the existing tattoo and discuss whether further specialist advice is needed.
07What’s the difference between a rework and a cover-up?
A rework develops or refreshes the existing design. A cover-up uses a new composition to conceal it. Your starting point and preferences guide which can be considered.
Selected work
Cover-up projects by our artists
By Georgiana Stoian. The artist identifies this inner-forearm piece as a cover-up and notes that parts of the wider project were still healing when photographed.
View the original before-and-after post ↗Have a tattoo idea in mind?
Send your tattoo idea, references and approximate size. We’ll review the request and reply about the estimate and consultation.