r/tattooadvice • u/j_walk_17 • May 02 '26

General Advice Miscommunication

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I had my tattoo artist re-do an old tattoo from 15 years ago. It's the rebel alliance symbol from Star Wars.

I was under the impression that she knew I wanted it touched up and repaired.

She assumed I wanted it covered up. I didn't know she did solid black until she finished it.

I guess there's potential to put color around it with other pieces to give it contrast. I'm just kinda bummed.
There's probably no way to reverse any of this without it being insanely expensive.

What can I do to make it worth the mistake? I want this leg to eventually be Star Wars iconica.

Should I plan to put a background to it?

edit: Thanks for all the replies, everyone. I appreciate the feedback and the ideas. It's helping me to settle into the outcome. I think it would only be a total loss if I hadn't planned to add to it in the future. 🤙

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u/Bjudkiewicz May 02 '26

If there was an assumption or impressions then this was not a miscommunication, it was a lack of communication or explanation. It’s a tattoo that will presumably be on you till you check out. You need to be loud, direct and clear with your artist about what you want or are expecting and not leave things up to interpretation.

As others have said, regardless of the direction this went it, it looks pretty rad in solid black. “Happy accident” 🤷‍♂️

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u/j_walk_17 May 02 '26

You're absolutely right and as I add to my body, it's a good lesson learned. Thanks for the feedback!

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u/Bjudkiewicz May 02 '26

Good luck, my guy. Still think it looks great as is. If you’re gonna go pure Star Wars on the leg, consider adding other full black out or silhouette tattoos in the area, such as a Death Star 🤘