At Morningstar Tattoo, we understand that tattoos are often deeply personal, and sometimes, what seemed like a great idea years ago no longer reflects who you are today. Whether you’re looking to hide an old tattoo or refresh it, we offer a variety of tattoo services to help transform your body art. Among the most popular options are tattoo cover-ups, blast overs, and blackouts. While they might seem similar, they are quite different in their approach and results.
1. Tattoo Cover-Ups: Turning Old Ink into Something New
Tattoo cover-ups are designed to conceal or transform an existing tattoo that no longer suits your style, tastes, or lifestyle. The idea behind a cover-up is to turn the old tattoo into something new, usually by incorporating darker or larger elements into the design. These tattoos require careful planning, as we have to consider the existing tattoo's size, shape, and color palette.
For example, if you had your ex's name in large black lettering, we would most likely suggest something like a crow or raven, a dark purple or blue rose, or a black panther as these are going to hide the dark tattoo underneath best. Some people may choose to get laser tattoo removal first in order to lighten their dark tattoo and allow for more flexibility in cover-up design and palette.
Our talented artists at are experienced in working with all types of tattoos—from faded or poorly executed designs to old ink you simply want to forget. We’ll work with you to design a cover-up that’s not only visually appealing but also fully integrates the old tattoo, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the new artwork.
Key Points about Cover-Ups:
- The original tattoo will be hidden or integrated into the new design.
- Typically requires a larger, darker design to fully cover the old ink.
2. Blast Overs: A Trendy, Artistic Approach to Old Ink
Blast overs are a newer trend in the tattoo world. Rather than trying to conceal or cover up an old tattoo completely, a blast over involves expanding or building upon the existing tattoo with new design elements. This technique allows us to use the old tattoo as a base and add new patterns, colors, or even texture to create a more vibrant, intricate, or artistic design.
To clarify, in a blast-over tattoo, the old tattoo underneath can still be seen. In this method, a new tattoo is done on top of the old tattoo, with the old tattoo still visible underneath.
Blast overs are ideal for those who want to give their old tattoo a refresh without completely erasing it. At Morningstar Tattoo, we’re experts at incorporating your previous tattoos into stunning, cohesive new pieces. Blast overs are a great way to breathe new life into your body art and transform something old into something new.
Key Points about Blast Overs:
- The original tattoo is enhanced or used as a background, rather than fully hidden.
- New elements or designs are added over the old tattoo.
- Ideal for those who want to keep some elements of their original tattoo intact while still changing its overall look.
3. Blackouts: Bold, Powerful Statements
If you’re looking to make a statement or need a large cover-up, blackouts are a great way to go. A blacked-out tattoo involves covering an entire area of your body with solid black ink, covering any tattoos underneath. This technique can be used for full sleeves, back pieces, or other large sections of the body. Blackouts are often chosen by those looking to cover up old tattoos completely, but they can also serve as a dramatic and unique form of self-expression. The blackwork doesn't always have to be completely solid, sometimes large ornamental blackwork designs can also be used to add a more feminine or body contouring look.
While blackout tattoos can be used to hide tattoos, they can also serve as a stand-alone work of art, creating striking visual contrast on your skin. At Morningstar Tattoo, we work with you to design blackout tattoos that are not only functional but also stylish, covering old unwanted tattoos and flattering the natural shape of your body.
Key Points about Blackouts:
- The area is completely covered with solid black ink.
- Perfect for covering old tattoos or creating a bold, minimalist, or ornamental design.
- Often used as a statement piece or to completely reshape a section of the body.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between a tattoo cover-up, blast over, or blackout comes down to your goals and personal style. If you want to completely hide your old tattoo and start fresh, a cover-up is the way to go. If you’re looking for something more artistic that builds on what’s already there, a blast over might be your perfect match. And for those who want to make a bold, modern statement, a blackout tattoo can completely transform an area of your body.
At Morningstar Tattoo, we offer all three of these services and are here to help you decide which option best suits your vision. No matter what direction you choose, our team of talented artists is committed to creating a tattoo that’s meaningful, visually striking, and perfectly tailored to you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your next tattoo transformation!