“I Was Happy to Save Money… Now I’m Getting a Cover-Up Tattoo” – What You Need to Know
- hontattoostudio
- Jun 2
- 4 min read
That small, cheap tattoo? It might cost you more in the long run.
You were excited.
$100 for a tattoo sounded like a great deal.
Quick design, fast appointment, and the artist even threw in a “discount.”
But months later, you find yourself typing:
“How to fix a bad tattoo”
“Cover-up tattoo artist near me”
And now you’re sitting in our consultation chair, saying what we hear too often:
“I thought it would be okay… But I hate how it looks now.”
This article is for anyone who thinks a cheap tattoo saves money.
Let’s show you why a cover-up tattoo often ends up costing you more, in every way.
Why Do So Many People Regret Cheap Tattoos?
It’s Not Just About the Price – It’s About the Process
The cheap tattoo regret often starts with good intentions:
“I just wanted something small. I thought I’d test it out.”
But in reality, those cheaper studios usually skip:
Thorough design consultations
Style matching with an artist
Aftercare guidance
Experience with skin types or placement issues
It’s not about size or budget.
It’s about how much care goes into your design and skin.
Real Client Story: Why One Toronto Client Came Back
One of our recent clients at Hon Tattoo Studio shared this:
“I went with someone my friend recommended.
It was a basement studio, and I paid $150.
I didn’t ask too much—just showed a Pinterest pic.
Now I can’t even look at it without feeling regret.”
They came to us looking for a cover-up tattoo.
And we had to explain the real cost of fixing it.
The Real Cost of a Cover-Up Tattoo
More Than Just Money
A cover-up tattoo is not just “drawing over” the old one.
It involves:
Reimagining a larger design
Using darker inks
Understanding pigment layering
Managing expectations for full coverage
Most cover-ups cost double the original.
And they usually require multiple sessions.
What’s worse?
You’re no longer choosing a tattoo freely—
You’re designing around a mistake.
How to Avoid Cover-Up Regret
✅ Choose the Right Tattoo Studio
Not every tattoo studio offers proper consultation.
At Hon Tattoo Studio, we provide:
Design briefings with the artist
Time to revise or ask questions
Honest advice about placement, style & skin tone
✅ Match Your Style with the Artist’s Specialty
Want a fine line? Don’t go to someone who only does blackwork.
Want bold colours? Avoid artists who focus only on grayscale realism.
Check portfolios. Ask for similar work.
✅ Don’t Rush the Process
Walk-in tattoos can be great for flash work.
But if it’s meaningful, take your time.
What Makes Hon Tattoo Studio Different?
Hon isn’t just the best tattoo studio in Toronto because of skill.
We focus on process, philosophy, and relationship.
We match you with the right artist, not just the next available one
We offer consultations that educate, not upsell
We explain aftercare and long-term aging of your tattoo
We specialize in cover-up tattoos and complex skin types
Most of our cover-up tattoo requests come from those who didn’t ask enough questions the first time.
From Regret to Redemption – The Power of Cover-Up Tattoos
One client came in with a faded butterfly on her wrist.
“I was 18, it was my first tattoo, and I just picked it off the wall.”
We transformed it into a floral forearm piece—layered, flowing, and elegant.
She cried after the session.
Not because it hurt—
But she finally felt proud of what was on her skin.
That’s what a good cover-up tattoo should do.
Not just hide the old, but honour your growth.
Conclusion: A Tattoo Isn’t a Bargain If You Don’t Love It
Saving $200 today might cost you $800 tomorrow.
Or worse, a lifetime of regret.
Before you book, ask yourself:
“Will I still love this design 5 years from now?”
“Is the studio helping me make the right decision, or just taking my money?”
At Hon Tattoo Studio, we guide you to a tattoo that fits your story—
Not someone else’s price list.
Ready for an honest conversation about your tattoo?
📝 PS
Tattoos aren’t just images on skin—they’re lasting stories. That’s why, at Hon Tattoo Studio, we prioritize every client’s intention, skin, and healing. Let’s turn your regret into pride.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1. How long should I wait before getting a cover-up tattoo?
👉 Ideally, the old tattoo should be fully healed, usually 3 to 6 months after the original session.
Q2. Can any tattoo be covered up?
👉 Most tattoos can be covered up, but very dark or dense designs may require partial laser removal first.
Q3. Will a cover-up tattoo hurt more than a regular one?
👉 Pain levels are similar, but because of layering, some spots may feel slightly more sensitive.
Q4. How do I choose a design for a cover-up?
👉 Our artists will guide you based on what can effectively mask your old tattoo while still aligning with your style and vision.
Q5. Does a cover-up tattoo cost more?
👉 Yes, because it requires more planning, detail, and technical skill than a regular piece.
