Cover-Up Tattoos · Sandy Springs & Atlanta
At Lightwork Tattoo, we use contrast and flow to transform existing tattoos into new works of art.
Explore Our Cover-Up Tattoo Portfolio
Every successful cover-up starts with considering what you want to wear now, not just whats underneath.
Browse a selection of real transformations by cover-up tattoo artist Wes Holland at Lightwork Tattoo in Sandy Springs.
Understanding the Cover-Up Process
Concept & Strategy
Cover-up tattoos are about redesign, not disguise. The goal is to redirect focus, control contrast, and integrate the existing shapes into a cohesive new design. At Lightwork Tattoo, every cover-up is custom — planned to accent your body and preserve long-term clarity.
When a Cover-Up Is Possible
Successful cover-ups depend on three key factors: existing pigment, saturation, and placement. In some cases, laser fading & lightening sessions will be required beforehand for the best results.
During your consultation, we’ll assess your existing tattoo, skin tone, and desired outcome to map out a clear, achievable plan.
Design Principles
A great cover-up doesn’t just “block out” the old tattoo — it reframes it. Wes designs cover-up tattoos in Atlanta using contrast and the blank un-tattooed skin nearby to guide the eye. Styles like Japanese, Traditional, and Illustrative are ideal for cover-ups because of their strong lines, defined fields of black, and dynamic composition.
Color, Skin Tone, and Longevity
For brown and dark skin tones, strategic use of negative space and saturated hues ensures clarity and vibrancy over time. Wes’ experience in color tattoos on dark skin allows him to design cover-ups that remain readable and balanced years after healing.
Project Scope & Pricing
Cover-ups are booked at our hourly rate of $200/hr, typically in 4-6 hour sessions. The number of sessions depends on the existing tattoo’s size, placement, and desired final result.
During your consultation, you’ll receive an estimate before booking.
Tattoo Cover-Up FAQs
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Not always. It depends on the pigment density, placement, and the age of the tattoo.
During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your existing tattoo and decide whether we can proceed with the cover-up or if laser fading is necessary first.
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Cover-up tattoos are billed at $200 per hour with a 2.5 hour ($500 minimum).
Small-to-medium pieces can take about 2.5 - 4 hours, while larger projects may take up to 6-8 hours to complete, depending on detail and complexity.
Larger cover-ups often require a follow-up session to ensure complete, full saturation and coverage.
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Bold, high-contrast styles like Japanese, Traditional, and Illustrative work best for most cover-ups.
Their strong outlines and color fields effectively redirect focus and integrate older shapes into new compositions.
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Yes, we specialize in tattooing all skin tones. Using strategic placement, contrast, and negative space, we ensure your cover-up design stays vibrant and legible over time.
On dark skin, trying to match the old tattoos size doesnt work. Openness to size and placement adjustments ensures best results.
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Not always. In some cases, partial lightening will expand design, size, and placement options, but many tattoos can be successfully covered without laser removal.
We’ll discuss your best path forward during your consultation.
Ready to Transform Your Tattoo?
Use the form below to share your cover-up idea.
Wes’ll review your request within 72 hours and send next steps to book your consultation.
Atlanta’s Trusted Studio for Custom Tattoo Cover-Ups
Located in Sandy Springs and serving the greater Atlanta area — including Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Gwinnett, Alpharetta, and Marietta — Lightwork Tattoo specializes in transforming old tattoos into refined, intentional artwork.
Whether your tattoo is faded, embarrassing, or no longer your style, we will create a design that feels like it was meant to be there all along.