Can you cover a black tattoo with white?

Question

I have an OUTLINE of the biohazard symbol on my upper back.
I was thinking about getting an oriental dragon starting where the old black outline is and moving its way across my shoulder onto my chest.

Would it be possible to cover the black lines of the outlined tattoo with a a light color, like white (for clouds or something to go with the dragon) or any color for that matter. Even if you repeat the color another time?

Or would covering a black outline only work with more black ink?


Thanks so MUCH!

Answer 1

Dragons often give a lot of leeway when used as a cover piece. The only way to know is to go to a tattoo artist known for outstanding cover work - this does not mean someone willing to tattoo one design over another. Many times they just show through.

One needs to know how to to work with the design so dark areas will cover the dark areas for the most part and/or incorporate remaining areas for shading, etc.

Expect an art fee up front, photos of your tattoo and pattern traced out, otherwise it is just guesswork.

Answer 2

They couldn't cover it with white. The black would still show through. Dragons are a very good cover-up design, especially if it is just an outline. The amount of detail on the dragon would draw the eye away from any parts they weren't able to incorporate into the design. Ask your artist for some suggestions also.

Answer 3

You can't cover a black tattoo with white or light-coloured ink. You'll need to use a fairly dark colour - black, plum, etc and have quite a bit of detail in the object covering your tattoo.

Answer 4

You could, but you would have to have it layered on over and over, and after all of that, the white would turn yellow anyway.
Coverups work best when you go darker