Kat Von D explained why she's covering her tattoos with solid black ink

If there’s one thing Kat Von D is synonymous with, it’s tattoos - so fans were shocked to learn she’s been covering them up with blocks of black ink.

The 42-year-old former tattooist, beauty pioneer and recording artist was first catapulted into the spotlight following the success of reality show LA Ink.

Kat Von D, born Katherine von Drachenberg, then went on to launch her own vegan makeup brand - KVD Beauty Makeup Collection - which has gained a cult status and is praised by beauty lovers worldwide.

Known for her sheer amount of intricate body art, Kat surprised many when she shared that she was getting many of her tattoos covered up with black ink.

Kat Von D is synonymous with tattoos. (Instagram/@thekatvond)

It seems that’s not the only major life change for the star, who last year converted to Christianity.

In October 2023, Kat shared footage of herself being baptised in a Christian church.

She was joined by family and friends and wore a white robe as she prepared to be lowered into the holy water.

A priest could be heard saying: "Katherine von Drachenberg, upon your profession of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in obedience to His Divine command, I baptise you, my sister, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit."

Kat then hugged the priest.

She previously shared footage from her baptism. (Instagram/@thekatvond)

With regards to having her tattoos covered up, this has been a work in progress since 2020.

She has been working with tattoo artist Hoode.

Kat shared: “Feels so good to finally cover up so many of the tattoos I got back when I used to drink.

"Those tattoos meant nothing to me but landmarks in dark times, and I'm so lucky to have the best blackout artist @hoode215 cover them up for me!

"Now my arm looks so nice and clean, and the portrait of my Father stands out even more."

Kat covered her back tattoos with blackout ink. (Instagram/@thekatvond)

She added: “I’ve been tattooing well over 2 decades and have seen so many tattoos in my lifetime that I personally would never get, yet feel happy for the wearer because it means something to them.

"I don’t think there should be room for criticism when it comes to self expression, and a tattoo is personal to the person wearing it. So thank you ahead of time for being respectful. Much love!

“Just know that I absolutely LOVE it, and it’s extremely refreshing for me to see all the garbage, drunken tattoos I had scribbled all over my leg that I got before I became sober, be covered by sleekness and simplicity."