If you’re an artist, creator, or even just a doodler with a favorite sketch, turning your artwork into custom stickers is a fun and practical way to share your work. Whether you’re looking to sell them, hand them out, or just stick them on everything you own, making your own stickers is easier—and more accessible—than ever.
This guide will walk you through the steps, tools, and tips you need to turn your art into stickers you’ll be proud of. No fluff, just real advice to help you create something tangible from your creativity.
Step 1: Choose the Right Artwork
Start with artwork that translates well at a small scale. Stickers are usually a few inches wide, so designs with clean lines, strong contrast, and simple compositions work best.
Ideal sticker artwork might include:
- Line drawings or cartoons
- Bold illustrations
- Hand-lettered phrases
- Logos or icons
- Digital designs with vibrant colors
If your piece is too detailed or soft in contrast, you may need to simplify it or boost the sharpness before turning it into a sticker.
Step 2: Digitize Your Art
You’ll need a digital file to create stickers, even if your original art is hand-drawn or painted.
Options for digitizing:
- Scan your art at high resolution (at least 300 DPI)
- Photograph it in bright, natural light (if scanning isn’t possible)
- Create it digitally using software like Procreate, Photoshop, Illustrator, or Canva
Once it’s digitized, clean it up. Crop out the background, adjust brightness/contrast, and remove any smudges or flaws. You want your final image to be crisp and clear.
Step 3: Decide Between Print-at-Home or Professional Printing
You’ve got two main options for printing your stickers: do it yourself or use a sticker printing service. Each has pros and cons.
Option 1: Print at Home
Best for: small batches, hobby use, budget-friendly projects
What you need:
- A color printer (inkjet or laser)
- Printable vinyl or sticker paper
- Scissors or a cutting machine (like Cricut or Silhouette)
- Optional: lamination sheets for waterproofing
Tips:
- Use matte or glossy sticker paper depending on your style.
- Let the ink dry fully before cutting.
- Use lamination or spray sealant for durability, especially for water bottles or laptops.
Option 2: Use a Printing Service
Best for: selling stickers, high quality, large batches, complex shapes
Popular services include:
- Sticker Mule
- Redbubble
- StickerApp
- VistaPrint
- Printify (if you’re using Shopify or Etsy)
These services let you upload your digital file, choose sticker sizes and finishes, and receive a professional product in the mail.
Pro tip: Choose “kiss cut” or “die cut” options for more professional, retail-ready results.
Step 4: Choose Size, Shape, and Finish
The design is just the beginning—now you make it pop.
Size:
Most stickers are 2–4 inches, but think about where they’ll be used. Water bottles? Laptops? Envelopes?
Shape:
- Die cut stickers follow the outline of your design. Clean and popular.
- Kiss cut stickers stay on a square or circle backing—great for sticker sheets, especially when kiss cut stickers are better for intricate designs or easy peeling.
- Circle/square shapes are easy and efficient to produce.
Finish:
- Glossy: Shiny and vibrant.
- Matte: Sleek and smooth. Modern look.
- Clear: Shows off your art without a white border.
- Holographic: Adds shimmer and shine for a trendy feel.
- Vinyl: Durable, waterproof—ideal for outdoor use.
Step 5: Prepare Your File for Print
To avoid printing issues, your file needs to be formatted properly. Most print services accept:
- PNG (transparent background)
- JPEG (for designs with solid backgrounds)
- PDF (for vector files or multiple stickers)
Make sure to:
- Use CMYK color mode for printing accuracy
- Set your resolution to at least 300 DPI
- Include a margin or “bleed” (typically 1/8″) to avoid unwanted cropping
Some platforms will provide a downloadable template to help you size and align everything correctly.
Step 6: Order or Print a Sample First
Don’t commit to 500 stickers until you’ve seen one in your hand. Order a small batch or print one at home to check:
- Color accuracy
- Size and shape
- Edge quality
- Durability
This small step can save you money and frustration down the line.
Step 7: Store and Share Them
Once your stickers are ready, think about how you’ll package, store, or share them.
For storage and sales:
- Keep them flat in dry, cool places
- Use resealable bags or small envelopes
- Add branded backings or cards if selling or gifting
Where to sell or share:
- Etsy, Shopify, Redbubble
- Local markets or art fairs
- Freebies with online orders
- Gifts for friends, fans, or collaborators
Bonus Tips for Selling Custom Stickers
- Photograph your stickers well—natural lighting, minimal clutter
- Offer bundles or themed sticker packs
- Add personality to your packaging (thank you notes, freebies, etc.)
- Promote on Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest—show the process!
- Price fairly, but don’t undersell your art or time
Final Thought: Stickers Make Your Art Stick Around
Turning your artwork into custom stickers is more than a DIY project—it’s a way to make your creativity portable, accessible, and tangible. Whether you’re making them for fun, for business, or for your friends, each sticker is a little piece of your art that someone else can enjoy.
You don’t need a big budget or fancy tools. Just your art, a plan, and a little follow-through.
So take that sketch, that doodle, that digital drawing—and stick with it. Literally.
