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A tattoo artist with a blackout tattoo on her left arm works on a design at the China Tattoo Convention 2015. Captured by ChinaFotoPress/Getty Images.The art of tattooing dates back thousands of years. You’ve probably encountered a wide variety of tattoo styles, ranging from abstract designs to intricate patterns and even recognizable symbols, some of which may be copyrighted or trademarked.
Perhaps you’ve come across — or even gotten — a tattoo designed to conceal an older piece. The simplest method involves a tattoo artist completely blackening the area, creating a solid, dark shade. This technique is known as a blackout tattoo.
Nowadays, blackout tattoos are no longer just a solution for covering up old ink. They’ve emerged as a unique form of body art, chosen by those looking to make a powerful visual statement. The process of getting a blackout tattoo varies based on size, shape, and placement, often requiring multiple sessions at the tattoo studio, with each visit lasting several hours.
The blackout sleeve shown below reportedly required around a dozen sessions, each lasting two to three hours.
Regardless of whether you’d consider getting one, the impact of these tattoos is undeniable. A quick image search reveals stunning designs that deliver a powerful visual punch.
Don’t miss the impressive detailing along the edges.
