Stellar 2.0 needle cartridges are hitting our warehouse shelves any day now, and we’re already excited to see what you’ll make of them!

Featuring colour-coded backstems and packaging, plus a combination of membrane and stabiliser, Stellar 2.0 cartridges take the much-loved existing Stellar cartridge design and make it even more convenient for artists to use.

We spoke with Liam McGibbon, product expert at Stellar, about how these clever cartridges were designed, who is doing amazing work right now, and some of the crazy configurations that artists are already asking for!

How long did it take to develop Stellar 2.0?

Stellar 2.0 has been in the works for a while, since November 2022. With Stellar getting great feedback, we wanted to create a successor. Something that artists can rely on.

How are Stellar 2.0 cartridges an improvement on the original Stellar line?

The Stellar V2 cartridges are sharper and more precise, whilst also staying at great value.

Can you tell us about the 20/20 guarantee on Stellar 2.0 cartridges?

There are two things we want all artists to have whilst using Stellar 2.0 cartridges, and that is confidence and enjoyment. The 20/20 guarantee means that if an artist notices a defect with their box, they can let us know and we will replace it. We want the quality to be a guarantee, not a lottery.   

What’s the best way to check needle quality?

Good quality lighting and magnification, so you don’t strain your eyes.Push the backstem/plunger down, so you can get the full view of the needle out of the tip (or adjust the needle depth all the way out if it is attached to a machine).Look at the grouping on the side and then with the needles pointing towards you.

Phone cameras have come a long way, too, so you can zoom in and not lose any detail in the photo.

How do the colour-coded boxes help artists save time?

The configurations you would like to use can now be found at a glance, to shave some time off the setup. Cartridges were the answer to save time during tattooing, when they first arrived in the scene, so small things such as colour coding can collectively save even more time in the studio.

Why is it useful to have configurations printed on the cartridges?

Aah, we go further in our time-saving quest! Cartridges can end up looking the same whilst in the middle of use, especially if you have a few of them open in the same configuration. Having the configuration specs higher up on the cartridge means you can see exactly which cartridge you want to attach or reattach whilst in use.

How are the colour-coded backstems useful while working?

Where is that curved mag? Is it this clear cartridge? Or this clear cartridge?’ I’m sure a few artists have come across this situation before with their open carts on the workstation.   

As well as looking pretty cool when they are lined up on your work surface, the colour coding makes a difference to help identify them efficiently. So when the configurations are chosen, checked and opened during setup, you can be confident that you pick up the right one every time in the tattooing session.       

How does the run-straight liner technology work?

Some needle configurations have a tendency of wobbling whilst running. Adding a stabiliser to the cartridgeprovides extra support, allowing the needle to stay true.   

What techniques are these cartridges best for?

With the different configurations and diameters we offer, all techniques are accommodated for. Whether you fine line, bold line or like your big Mags, we have you covered.

Why is 304 stainless steel great for needles?

304 stainless steel offersgreat strength and formability, which for tattoo cartridge use means that the sharp tip of the needle will stay sharp throughout use without dulling or bending out of shape. This means less skin trauma for better healing.

Why do Stellar 2.0 cartridges come with internal stabilisers *and* membranes?

The membranes are as standard, so the ink will stay within the cartridge and not leak any liquids into your machine. In addition, the membrane pulls the needle back up into the housing for safety when the machine stops running.  As for the internal stabiliser, this will prevent any needle wobbling whilst in use, so you can get clean, precise hits every time, regardless of needle count. Both components have their own part to play.

Can you tell us about the Whipshading Stipple Magnum configurations?

No… Only joking. So, the layout of the Whipshading Magnum looks like a series of 3 Round Liners in a row, with spacing in between them. This gap means that you can get more coverage while stippling or whip shading, without losing any consistency. They are a relatively new configuration in tattooing but have received a lot of praise.   

Will you be adding more configurations to the range?

Who knows what the future will hold. We keep getting asked if there will be big liners (I’m talking 111RL) in the range, so suggestions like this will be taken into consideration.

How do you think Stellar 2.0 cartridges could be improved in the future?

Right now, Stellar 2.0 is at the pinnacle. We constantly have our ears to the ground, looking at the improvements in technology. A plastic-free alternative would be something to consider.

Which tattoo artists are doing amazing work right now?

I am not just saying this, but everybody is killing it right now!

Benjamin Laukis, Sampaguita Jay, David Corden and Gorsky are a few names which pop into my head. Being able to physically see their artwork at conventions really does it for me.   

I’m a sucker for Dark Souls or Elden Ring tattoos, and Jaye Shepherd’s (Plus Ultra Tattoo) work stands out for me in this field.

How many tattoos do you have, and if so, which is your favourite?

I’ve never actually counted them before. Taking into account that some are for the same piece, then I would say 15. My arms and lower legs are covered, so plenty of space on my body for more.

As for my favourite… that’s a tough one! I like all of them in their unique way. Can I pick two? Thanks. Brad Wallis did a cool T-45 Power Armour from Fallout on my lower left leg. Right next to that is a portrait of Shawn Michaels done by Sonny Mitchell. I have known both Brad and Sonny for years, so getting a tattoo from them was a great experience and a seal of our friendship.  

I need to get another tattoo soon… being in the tattooing scene is a bad influence. I blame you all for being so good haha.

What do you get up to outside of work?

I made the grave mistake of getting into Warhammer 40,000 a couple of years ago. I’ve been ogling the artwork and slowly walking past their shop windows since I was a teenager, so I finally bit the bullet and started collecting. I am still new to the gaming side, but I love the painting and lore side of it. Blood Angels are my favourites!

Other for that, I love going to gigs. You can catch me at Bloodstock Festival every year and through 2024 I will be seeing the likes of Rammstein, In Flames and Kreator.      

How has the tattoo industry changed since you started working in it?

I have seen so much change since I started back in 2011. Almost everybody used needles, tubes and coils. I always remember my first convention (Tattoo Tea Party in 2012) and a few people laughed at the concept of cartridges. Now, cartridges are seen everywhere!

As well as the change in the tools of the trade, the artists and their artwork have evolved, too! I really like seeing people succeed, and when I see familiar faces over the years creating their unique styles and thriving at conventions and on their socials, it is a great feeling.      

What do you think will be the next big thing in tattooing?

Wireless machines have come a long way over the years. I think we will start seeing more machines with interchangeable long-life batteries and modular options, so artists can get the most out of their chosen machine, knowing that it will be by their side for a long time.

Will we see Stellar 2.0 cartridges at conventions in 2024?

Yep!We started with samples at the Brighton Tattoo Convention this year as a warm-up, and we have received some amazing feedback! When they are released, they will be our new standard at conventions.

When I hand over a box to an artist, I will ask them to let us know what they think, because I genuinely like to hear feedback about Stellar.  

Many thanks to Liam for explaining the highlights of Stellar 2.0 cartridges and sharing his experience of the tattoo industry!

Stellar 2.0 cartridges will be hitting the Killer Ink store any day now, so keep an eye out and pick up a pack in your favourite configuration. And don’t forget to let us know what you think!