Tattoo Cover-Ups in Wilton, Near Salisbury

Cover-up tattoos start with the tattoo you already have

A cover-up is a new design planned around existing ink. That means the starting point is different from a tattoo on clear skin: the old lines, colours, shape and darkness all influence what can work over them.

You might want to replace an old name, rethink a design you no longer like or turn a smaller piece into something larger. Bring the direction you'd like to take, but stay open to changes in size, subject or composition. A saved design may need adapting to work as a cover-up.

We won't promise that every tattoo can be hidden with any design. The useful first step is to look at what is there and discuss the options honestly.

Cover-up or rework: which do you need?

A cover-up aims to conceal the original tattoo within a different design. A rework keeps more of the existing idea and changes or develops it. A touch-up addresses parts of a tattoo that need further attention rather than turning it into a new subject.

If you still like the main idea, say so. You may not need a completely different tattoo. If you'd rather move away from it, tell us what you want the finished piece to feel like.

Not sure what to call the job? That's fine. Send a clear photograph and explain which parts you want to keep, change or cover.

Discuss your cover-up with Saul

Saul lists cover-ups among his styles and has eight years of tattooing experience. His broader work includes realism, geometric, traditional, Japanese and fine line tattoos, with a particular interest in larger pieces.

Those styles are starting points for a discussion, not a guarantee that each one will work over your tattoo. The existing piece comes first when planning coverage.

For a helpful first enquiry, email bettercallsaul.tattoos@gmail.com with:

• A clear, unfiltered photograph of the whole tattoo in good light.
• Its approximate size and where it sits on your body.
• Its rough age and whether it has already been reworked or covered.
• What you dislike about it and a few ideas for the new piece.

You can also start through our contact form. It does not currently accept image uploads, so email is the direct way to send the photograph.

What affects the new design?

Dark or densely filled areas can limit the lighter parts of a new design. The cover-up may need to be larger or darker than the original, with its shapes and shading arranged around the old ink. A very delicate drawing may not provide the coverage you're expecting.

Where the old tattoo sits also affects how a new composition can extend around it. We'll discuss those constraints before you settle on a design.

BcS Tattoos does not offer laser removal. If fading or removal is something you're considering, raise it at the consultation so you can understand the design limitations before arranging anything separately.

Pricing and booking

Cover-ups are quoted after discussing the existing tattoo and the proposed design. Size, detail and placement affect the price; a minimum charge applies. We can't give a reliable quote from the word “cover-up” alone.

Your consultation is free. A non-refundable deposit secures a tattoo booking and is deducted from the final price. Ask for the current deposit and terms before paying. Full aftercare instructions are provided after your appointment.

Ready to talk about your old tattoo?

You don't need to arrive with the answer. Bring the tattoo you have and the direction you'd like to take. For bold designs, you can also explore our blackwork page, while keeping in mind that coverage needs its own assessment.

We're at 28 North Street, Wilton, Wiltshire SP2 0HJ, near Salisbury. Mention cover-up work and Saul when you enquire.

Book a free consultation