Tribal Tattoo Cover-Up – How to Cover Up an Old Tattoo


Tattoo cover-ups don’t always work out perfectly and sometimes only barely mask an old design. In such instances, bolder lines from traditional or American traditional tattoo styles might work better to cover an existing tribal tattoo design than more subtle designs could.

For a faded tribal tattoo cover-up such as this faded tribal one, using bold neo-traditional or American traditional styles could work effectively, as their bold lines will overpower existing designs and overtake existing tattoo designs more successfully. Shading and shadowing techniques will help hide an existing design. Ideal methods include dark floral and mandala tattoos.

Covering Up a Tribal Tattoo




Tribal tattoos hold a special place in many people’s hearts. With deep spiritual significance and personal associations attached, tribal Tattoos provide strength and connection – in addition to taking on additional personal importance as time progresses. Tattoos have long been used to symbolize one’s journey, while others are reminders of heritage or culture.

Tribal Tattoos were historically worn as amulets to protect warriors during battle or pay homage to fallen allies, serving both purposes today. While tribal tattooing has become increasingly popular over time, it is vitally important that we respect its original meaning and design. Misappropriating sacred symbols from tribal cultures for aesthetic reasons is quickly done; to avoid this happening, seek out highly qualified artists with extensive knowledge of tribal tattooing history – they will guide you through covering up an existing design with one that keeps its integrity.

Concealing a Tribal Tattoo

Tribal tattoos with thick black bands of ink are perfect for covering up with darker hues, while adding detailed patterns, stippling, or geometric shapes can further disguise an old ink design. This example showcases an excellent tattoo cover-up that transforms an ancient Celtic cross and unrelated geographical tattoo into a fully realized half sleeve featuring a ship and seascape, complete with expert shading to give the appearance that all parts were drawn by hand.

This design can help anyone hide a faded tribal tattoo while adding something everyone will appreciate. The black and white roses will draw less attention to any older ink but will make people believe that part of its design has always been there. Additionally, this cover-up works well to hide name Tattoos that have started to fade or are no longer legible.

Choosing a Design for a Tribal Tattoo Cover-Up

Tribal tattoos tell a tale about your heritage and connection to your people. From intricate designs covering much of the body to small designs depicting images from nature – there’s sure to be one perfect for everyone in a tribe tattoo collection. Crosses symbolize faith and devotion; therefore, they make an ideal way for men who wish to show off their religious affiliation. Tattooed wolves are potent symbols in many cultures, representing loyalty and family while simultaneously signifying strength and power. Wolf Tattoos tend to have a masculine aesthetic.

The thigh is an ideal location for a tribal tattoo as it provides coverage over a broad area while increasing muscle definition. Furthermore, its canvas is the perfect space for elaborate and creative designs. Choosing your cover-up tattoo design must meet these criteria; otherwise, it could prove more difficult than expected. A detailed and complex design may require more dedication to hide than more straightforward line tattoos.

Getting a Tribal Tattoo Cover Up

Identify the appropriate artist if you plan to cover up an old tribal tattoo with something better, as cover-ups require special skills that not every artist possesses. This is particularly important if the cover-up involves scarring or other challenging images. Thankfully, there are talented artists who specialize in cover-ups and can transform drab old tattoos into stunning new ones – like this pouncing tiger wholly covered up by an incredible new tattoo that looks awesome.

Floral designs can also help cover up Tattoos with great success, even on darker skin tones. Many who previously had offensive ink that is no longer appropriate opt for flower tattoos as cover-ups, such as this beautiful mandala of floral designs, which perfectly disguised an old flower-filled sleeve tattoo by concealing its faded blues with vibrant colors in its new design.