

Custom Cover-Up Design
A considered blackwork design can give an existing tattoo a completely new direction.
A More Personal Way to Rework Existing Ink
I begin by looking closely at the tattoo you want covered, including its size, placement, colour density, and overall shape. From there, I develop a freehand concept that uses bold blackwork to create a balanced new composition.
The process is collaborative without forcing your skin into a standard template. I will guide you through what is achievable, explain how the design can work with the existing ink, and create a piece that feels deliberate, personal, and comfortable to wear.
Ideal For
Existing tattoos that no longer feel right
Bold blackwork lovers
Clients seeking a custom freehand design
Larger or complex cover-up projects
How It Works
Share Your Tattoo: Send details and images of the existing piece so I can understand the starting point.
Explore The Design: We discuss your ideas, placement, and the blackwork approach that best suits the tattoo.
Create The Cover-Up: I refine the composition and tattoo the new design with careful attention to flow and coverage.







About
I am Charlie Gates, UK tattoo artist now working out of New York creating dark blackwork, ornamental designs, lettering, cover-ups, and distinctive hand and finger tattoos. My work is shaped by bold contrast, fluid movement, and an eye for unsettling detail. I help clients turn striking ideas into tattoos that feel personal, powerful, and unmistakably their own, whether they are drawn to intricate darkness or a statement piece with lasting presence.

About
I am Charlie Gates, UK tattoo artist now working out of New York creating dark blackwork, ornamental designs, lettering, cover-ups, and distinctive hand and finger tattoos. My work is shaped by bold contrast, fluid movement, and an eye for unsettling detail. I help clients turn striking ideas into tattoos that feel personal, powerful, and unmistakably their own, whether they are drawn to intricate darkness or a statement piece with lasting presence.
Services
01
Dark Blackwork Tattoos
I create bold dark blackwork tattoos with fluid, graphic detail.
02
Dark Ornamental Tattoos
I design dark ornamental pieces with intricate, dramatic motifs.
03
Creepy Custom Tattoos
I create custom creepy tattoos featuring teeth, eyes, skulls, and lettering.
Services
01
Dark Blackwork Tattoos
I create bold dark blackwork tattoos with fluid, graphic detail.
02
Dark Ornamental Tattoos
I design dark ornamental pieces with intricate, dramatic motifs.
03
Creepy Custom Tattoos
I create custom creepy tattoos featuring teeth, eyes, skulls, and lettering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact
Tell me about the tattoo you have in mind.
Contact
Tell me about the tattoo you have in mind.