Measure the space the tattoo takes up. Knowing the exact width and height of the work can help you plan a successful cover-up tattoo.
Visit tattoo shops and tattoo artists' websites to get ideas for a cover-up. Look at the artists' portfolios, preferably in person at the shop, and discuss ways to change the name on your tattoo.
Go with a design featuring blue, black and/or green. It is generally not possible to cover up dark ink with lighter ink. You cannot hide a name with white ink if it is tattooed in black ink, but you can blend it away behind dark blue flowers.
Get a bigger tattoo to cover up a smaller one. Your chances of successfully changing the name on your tattoo to a new piece in which the name cannot be seen increase the larger you are willing to go.
Visit a plastic surgeon for a laser removal treatment as an alternative. You may be able to remove the name entirely or change it to a different word by removing certain letters. Even if you plan to cover it with a new tattoo, a session or two of laser lightening before your cover-up appointment can give your artist more freedom in design and color choice.