If you’re like most people, you rushed into getting that beautiful tattoo script and now regret it because the lettering is botched. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Fixing tattoo lettering can be a bit of a challenge, but with this guide, you’ll be able to do it like a pro. In this article, we’ll answer some common questions about how to fix tattoo lettering and provide useful tips to help you get the job done right. So keep reading to learn more!
Common Mistakes in Tattoo Lettering
Lettering is one of the most important aspects of a tattoo. It can make or break the entire piece. Unfortunately, there are a lot of people who make common mistakes when it comes to their lettering. Here are some of the most common mistakes.
Misspellings
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to tattoo lettering is misspelling words. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as the person not knowing how to spell the word correctly, or simply because they were in a hurry and didn’t check the spelling beforehand.
Over the top design
Sometimes, people might go overboard with the design of their tattoo. This can be anything from adding too many elements to the tattoo, to making the letters too big or small. The regret here comes when people realize that they should have just kept it simple.
It’s important to keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to tattoos. A simple and elegant tattoo sometimes may look better than one that is overly complicated.
Unfortunately, overcrowded designs are hard to fix and usually, the only way to deal with them is a removal.
Bad spacing between letters
Another possible cause one might want to fix their tattoo is bad spacing. This can happen when people try to fit too much into a small space, or when they don’t leave enough space between letters or words. Bad spacing can make your tattoo look cluttered and messy. It can also be difficult to read. Make sure you leave enough space between words and lines so that your tattoo looks clean and easy to read.
Bad font choice
People often make the mistake of selecting a bad font for their tattoo. This can be because they saw a font they liked and thought it would look good, without realizing that it may not be the best choice for their tattoo.
When choosing a font, you should keep in mind the size of the tattoo, as well as the meaning of it. For example, if you’re getting a small tattoo with a simple meaning, then a more intricate font may not be the best choice. Likewise, if you’re getting a large tattoo with a deep meaning, then a more simplistic font may not be ideal.
Lines too thick or thin
Another mishap that could happen, is lines of the lettering being too thick. This can make the tattoo look messy and unprofessional. On the other hand, making the lines too thin can make the tattoo difficult to read. However thinner lines are much easier to fix than thicker lines.
Blowouts
Another common mistake people make with tattoo lettering is called a “blowout.” This is when the ink spreads out from the initial tattoo, causing it to look blurred and smudged. Blowouts are usually caused by inexperienced artists but it also can be caused by a poor aftercare.
If the pigment is placed too deep into the skin, it’s more likely to blow out. To avoid this, make sure you go to a reputable artist who knows how to place the ink correctly.
The angle of the needle also plays an important role in the quality of the tattoo. If the needle is placed at the wrong angle, it can cause the ink to spread out and create a blowout. [1], [2]
How Can Tattoo Lettering Be Fixed?
There are a few ways that tattoo lettering can be fixed, depending on the problem. Some cases will be easier to fix than others.
Preventing a blowout
One common issue is that ink can spread out over time, causing the lines to blur together. This usually happens with smaller tattoos or when you pull and stretch your skin too much. If you think your tattoo is starting to spread, the best thing you can do is go back to your artist and have them take a look. In some cases, they may be able to touch it up for you.
By adding more details
If the letters are too skinny or there isn’t enough contrast, adding more details can help. This could involve making the lines thicker, adding shading, or increasing the size of the letters.
Another way to add more interest to tattoo lettering is by adding a border. This could be done with a simple line or something more elaborate like a chain link fence.
Adding embellishments like flowers or stars can also help to make tattoo lettering look better. These should be used sparingly though, as too many will make the tattoo look busy and cluttered.
Finally, changing the font of the tattoo can also help to make it look better. This is usually only necessary if the original font turned out to be very plain and boring.
Covering up the tattoo
Of course, sometimes it’s not possible to fix a tattoo completely, but there are still some options available, like covering up the tattoo with another design. Another option is to partially cover it with another tattoo. This is usually the best option for small errors or if the overall design is still good but the lettering needs to be fixed.
Laser removal
Unfortunately, in the worst cases the only way to fix a tattoo is to have it removed completely. This can be done with laser removal, but it’s a costly and painful process. Before the tattoo is removed, the area will be numbed and a laser will be used to break up the ink. This can take several sessions to complete and may not remove the tattoo completely.
Your tattoo artist may redirect you to a professional laser removal specialist if removal is the only option available to you. [1], [2]
How to Avoid Tattoo Lettering Mistakes
It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your tattoo lettering. Here are some tips on how to avoid making mistakes.
Check the transfer
The first step is to make sure the transfer is correct. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often people get their tattoo lettering wrong.
Make sure that the lines are still visible and that they haven’t blurred together. If they have, you’ll need to start over with a new transfer. Next, look over the design carefully. This could point out the issues with spacing, misspelled words, line thickness, and other problems that can be easily fixed before you even start the tattooing process. Don’t be afraid to ask your artist questions about it.
Watch for blowouts or crooked lines during the process
Check what font looks on fake skin
This is a step that some people overlook, but it’s important to see how the font will look on the skin before you commit to it.
The best way to test how a font will look on your skin is by using a piece of practice skin. Your artist will use a pen or pencil to trace the letters of your desired font onto the fake skin. Once they’ve traced the entire word or phrase, take a close look at the impression left behind. If you are happy with how it looks, then chances are good that the font will look just as good once it’s inked onto the real skin. If not, you may consider changing the font choice for the tattoo.
Discuss the exact design in details with your client
Tattoo artists are professionals and they know what looks good and what doesn’t. The best way to avoid any tattoo lettering mistakes is to communicate with your artist. Tell them what exactly do you want from the design and ask their opinion on it. If you’re unsure about anything, they may draw a few different versions so you can choose the one they like the best. By being clear and concise with your communication, you can ensure that the tattoo will turn out exactly how you want it.
Double check the correct intended spelling of the words or names
As we already mentioned, it’s awfully common to misspell words in a tattoo. This however can be easily avoided by double checking the correct spelling of the words or names before you get them tattooed. You can ask your client to provide you with a list of the words or names they want, and then you can check the spelling yourself. [1], [2]
FAQ
Can crooked tattoo lines be fixed?
Crooked lines are one of the most common problems people have with their tattoo lettering. If your lines are slightly crooked, you may need to see a tattoo artist to have them corrected.
Another option for fixing crooked tattoo lines is to cover them up with another tattoo. This is usually only an option if the original tattoo is small and not too visible.
Remember that it’s completely normal for the lines to appear crooked during the healing process.
Can you fix letters on a tattoo?
The answer is yes and no. If the mistakes are pretty minor, then it’s possible that your tattoo artist can go back in and fix them. However, if the mistakes are more major or if the tattoo is old and faded, then it might not be possible to fix them and tattoo removal should be considered.
Can you fix a blurry tattoo?
If your tattoo is blurry, it’s likely that the lines were not drawn cleanly or evenly in the first place. Sometimes ink could be the culprit too. Blurry tattoos can sometimes be fixed by going over them again with a fresh needle and ink. However, if the problem is severe, you may need to have the tattoo completely redone.
Why are my tattoo lines not solid?
This is a common problem that can be caused by a few different things. The first thing you need to check is whether your needle is the correct size for the line work you’re trying to do. If it’s too small, your lines will be thinner and less solid. Conversely, if it’s too large, your lines will be thicker and less defined.
Another common cause of tattoo lines not being solid is poor ink flow. This can be due to a number of factors, such as using an old needle or having incorrect dilution ratios when mixing your inks. If you’re having trouble with this, make sure to speak to your artist or tattoo supplier about finding the right mix for you.
Useful Video: Terrible Tattoos and How to Fix Them
Conclusion
Fixing tattoo lettering can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. If you are unhappy with the current font choice, misspellings, blowouts or the spacing of your letters, there are ways to correct these mistakes.
One option is to cover up the old tattoo with a new design. This can be a great way to start fresh and update your look. Depending on the design, you can add more elements to make it look better or you can remove some of the existing letters to improve the appearance. Last resort you can always have the tattoo removed, but this is a very costly and invasive process.
If you’re not happy with your current tattoo lettering, don’t despair – there are ways to make it look better. But no matter what course of action you choose, always consult with an experienced tattoo artist for help.
References:
- https://painfuljoy.com/how-to-fix-tattoo-lettering-detailed-guide/
- https://www.byrdie.com/tattoo-blowout-5200439
- https://authoritytattoo.com/fixing-uneven-and-crooked-lines/