Cover-Up Tattoos in Hollywood, Los Angeles
An old tattoo you no longer love doesn't have to stay the way it is. ARTISTA by Motis Tattoos in Hollywood designs cover-ups and reworks — new artwork planned to hide, absorb or transform existing ink.
How a Cover-Up Works
A cover-up places a new design over an existing tattoo so the old ink disappears into the new artwork. It isn't about painting over the old tattoo in one solid layer — it relies on design choices: darker values placed over the old lines, textures and shading that break up the old shapes, and a composition that directs the eye away from what's underneath.
More cover-up and rework examples are shared on our Instagram. Bring a photo of your current tattoo to your consultation and your artist can show you relevant work.
Cover-Up or Rework?
Cover-up
A new design that hides the old one. Usually larger and often darker than the original tattoo.
Rework
Keeping the original tattoo but improving it — refreshing faded lines, adding shading or color, or building new elements around it.
What Makes a Good Cover-Up Design
Florals, shaded animals, black and grey pieces and designs with rich texture often cover well. Very light or very fine line designs usually can't hide dark ink on their own. Your artist will be honest about what's realistic for your tattoo — in some cases, a few sessions of laser lightening first may give you more design freedom.
The Consultation
Every cover-up starts with a look at the existing tattoo: its size, how dark it is, and where it sits. From there your artist sketches options and explains the size and style needed for a clean result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any tattoo be covered?
Not every tattoo can be fully covered with any design. Size, darkness and placement all matter. Your artist will tell you what's realistic during the consultation.
Will the cover-up need to be bigger than my old tattoo?
Usually, yes — a cover-up generally needs to be larger than the original to hide it well.
Can I walk in for a cover-up?
Appointments are recommended. Walk-ins are welcome based on artist availability. Calling ahead is recommended. Cover-ups almost always start with a consultation.
How do I book?
Call (323) 970-9695 or use the booking form, and include a photo of the tattoo you want covered.
Visit ARTISTA in Hollywood
ARTISTA by Motis Tattoos is at 1543 N La Brea Ave, Unit 208, Los Angeles, CA 90028 — in Hollywood, a short walk from Hollywood Blvd and Sunset. The studio is open 24 hours. Appointments are recommended. Walk-ins are welcome based on artist availability. Calling ahead is recommended.