Introduction

Tattoos are deeply personal forms of expression, but sometimes what once felt meaningful no longer fits. Whether it’s a poorly executed piece, a faded design, or a symbol of a past chapter, many people seek to transform these into something new and empowering. That’s where the best cover-up tattoos in Edinburgh come into play, and no studio understands this better than Sanatorium Tattoo. We specialize in giving old tattoos new life artfully and intentionally.

What Is a Tattoo Cover-Up?

A tattoo cover-up is a new design applied over an existing tattoo, designed to completely mask or creatively incorporate the old ink. Unlike laser removal, cover-ups replace the old tattoo with new artwork using strategic placement, shading, and design expertise.

Cover-ups can:

• Conceal names or symbols from the past

• Improve outdated or faded designs

• Upgrade older styles to modern aesthetics

• Help heal emotional associations with a tattoo

Why Choose a Professional Studio for Cover-Ups

Cover-up tattoos require technical skill and creativity. They often involve:

• Deep understanding of how pigment interacts with skin

• Advanced knowledge of ink layering

• Clever design adaptation

• Clean execution to avoid ink bleeding or distortion

Choosing the right studio ensures the old tattoo is transformed with precision and artistry—not just hidden, but reborn.

The Art of Transformation at Sanatorium Tattoo

Located at 8 Drummond St, Edinburgh EH8 9TU, United Kingdom, Sanatorium Tattoo is known across Edinburgh for custom and cover-up excellence. Our experienced artists specialise in:

• Detailed consultations to understand your story

• Artistic redesigns that complement your body

• High-quality pigments and safe techniques

• Personalized care before, during, and after your session

Types of Tattoos We Commonly Cover-Up

We’ve seen—and transformed—a wide variety of tattoos, including:

• Names of ex-partners

• Amateur or stick-and-poke tattoos

• Outdated tribal or flash art

• Faded color pieces

• Incomplete or misspelled designs

Each cover-up is a collaboration. You bring the canvas and the vision; we bring the expertise to bring it to life.

How We Design a Successful Cover-Up Tattoo

Designing a cover-up is a creative challenge. Our process includes:

1. Evaluating the Old Tattoo: We assess the darkness, size, and condition of the existing ink.

2. Discussing Your Vision: We learn about your style preferences and story.

3. Sketching the New Design: We create a concept that incorporates or fully conceals the original.

4. Strategic Placement and Shading: We use bold lines, texture, and color layering to hide old ink.

5. Execution and Aftercare: We tattoo the piece with skill and guide you through healing.

What Tattoo Styles Work Best for Cover-Ups?

Some tattoo styles lend themselves better to cover-up work, including:

• Blackwork: Bold, opaque lines that conceal well

• Neo-Traditional: Strong outlines and vibrant colors

• Realism: Depth and detail to distract from the old design

• Floral & Nature: Organic forms that wrap and blend

• Mandala or Geometric: Structured patterns to hide symmetry flaws

At Sanatorium Tattoo, we tailor every piece to the client’s skin tone, body area, and past tattoo.

Our Cover-Up Consultation Process

Getting a cover-up tattoo starts with a detailed consultation. We:

• Examine your existing tattoo in person or via photo

• Discuss your reasons for covering it

• Explore design directions

• Estimate required size and ink density

• Advise whether partial laser fading is necessary before tattooing

Honesty is key—we'll always let you know what’s possible, and when fading or design tweaks are necessary.

Tattoo Fading Before a Cover-Up

Some tattoos are too dark or large to cover in one go. We may recommend:

• Laser Tattoo Removal: Partial fading for better ink layering

• Multiple Sessions: Building the design across time

We work with trusted local removal clinics or incorporate fading into the long-term design plan.

Cover-Up vs. Blast-Over: What’s the Difference?

• Cover-Up: Fully conceals the old tattoo with a new design.

• Blast-Over: Applies new imagery over a faded or existing tattoo where the old design still shows subtly.

Blast-overs can be a stylistic choice when the old tattoo isn’t being hidden, but rather reimagined.

Healing and Aftercare for Cover-Ups

Cover-up tattoos can be more intense due to ink saturation. Proper aftercare includes:

• Keeping it clean and moisturised

• Avoiding direct sun and friction

• Using artist-recommended healing ointments

• Following a strict hygiene routine

We provide full guidance and follow-ups to ensure flawless healing.

How Much Do Cover-Up Tattoos Cost?

Pricing varies depending on the size and complexity:

• Small to Medium: £200–£450

• Larger Pieces: £500–£800+

• Multiple Sessions: Priced per hour (quoted during consult)

A deposit is usually required for custom designs, which contributes toward the final cost.

Conclusion

Cover-up tattoos offer a powerful way to reclaim your skin and rewrite your story. At Sanatorium Tattoo, we don’t just cover old ink we help you embrace a new chapter through custom artistry and thoughtful design. Whether it’s a tiny reminder you’d like erased or a full sleeve you want reimagined, we’re here to make it happen.

FAQs 

Q1: Can every tattoo be covered?

Not all tattoos are easily covered. Dark, large, or detailed tattoos may require fading first.

Q2: Will the old tattoo show through?

If done properly, no. But full coverage depends on color, age, and skin tone.

Q3: Can I pick any design for a cover-up?

Designs must be chosen with the old tattoo in mind. We help create options that work.

Q4: Does it hurt more than a regular tattoo?

It may feel more intense in previously tattooed areas, but the process is manageable.

Q5: How long does a cover-up take?

Anywhere from 2 to 6 hours or more, depending on size and detail. Sometimes multiple sessions are needed.