Sticker design trends for 2025

Custom stickers are a powerful medium for branding and creativity, bringing joy to people of all ages. As we move into 2025, stickers are set to play an even bigger role in both business and personal branding.

This evolution goes beyond aesthetics—it's about how businesses and individuals are using stickers in innovative ways to connect, promote, and express themselves.

The rise of e-commerce and social media has transformed stickers from simple decorations into impactful marketing tools. Brands are finding that a well-designed sticker, especially on premium material, can become a keepsake, cementing brand loyalty, enhancing unboxing experiences, and driving social media engagement.

At Sticker Mule, we work with some of the world's most talented sticker designers every day. Here are the top sticker design trends we’re seeing for 2025.

##Top sticker design trends for 2025:

###1. Retro revival

After all these years, retro-inspired design can no longer be called just a trend. Its recognizable characteristics have become a staple in graphic design, evolving into a timeless style. While its popularity ebbs and flows, drawing inspiration from multiple eras, retro designs are here to stay and are unlikely to fade away anytime soon.

The beauty of this style lies in its versatility, offering a wealth of elements to choose from. If asked to name a "retro color palette," most people could respond without much hesitation.

The same goes for typography, illustration styles, shapes, patterns, and more. Rather than leaning into clichés, designers have embraced a hybrid approach, blending modern, contemporary elements with retro-inspired aesthetics.

In the world of stickers, retro characters remain incredibly popular, serving as a valuable asset for brands looking to enrich their branding toolkit. Similarly, 70s-inspired typography is another widely used and beloved element in retro design.

![retro revival sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7b1ed215-9b62-475c-a4a7-2a786e99ea80)
By [Lisa McCormick](https://dribbble.com/shots/25091518-We-re-All-in-this-Together-Stickers)

###2. Halftone patterns

Halftones have evolved far beyond their printing origins to become a dynamic design element that adds depth, texture, and a distinctive visual appeal. This technique—creating gradients and shading through patterns of dots—has been embraced by designers for its ability to infuse designs with vintage charm or a contemporary edge. In 2025, halftones are being used not just as subtle textures but as bold, primary design elements that can transform simple illustrations into striking works of art.

In sticker design, halftones offer unique advantages. They can serve as a unifying feature, linking individual stickers into a cohesive set. By incorporating halftone patterns into each sticker, the designs feel instantly connected, creating a sense of continuity and harmony. This makes halftones a powerful asset for adding depth and cohesion to your designs.

![halftone patterns sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6f724396-6ea1-4884-b80d-605408374ea9)
By [Lisa Champ](https://dribbble.com/shots/16736302-Halloween-Flash-Collab/attachments/11781747?mode=media)

###3. Holographic magic

Holographic stickers are becoming increasingly popular, adding a mesmerizing, eye-catching dimension to any surface. Their shifting colors make them ideal for product packaging, laptop decorations, and brand promotions. Many businesses are already using holographic stickers to create memorable experiences and provide an extra touch of uniqueness.

Industries like online retail, fintech startups, and luxury brands are especially drawn to holographic stickers for their ability to enhance the perceived value of products. A badge or label on holographic material instantly feels premium and special—something a plain white sticker struggles to achieve.

It’s no coincidence that gradients have become more prominent in design recently, and holographic stickers are a perfect way to bring a digital, futuristic feel into physical stickers. Their ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functionality makes them a standout choice in 2025.

![holographic stickers design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/321b6b31-3416-498f-a5b7-c417075876e7)

###4. Hand-drawn illustrations

In contrast to the rise of AI-generated designs, hand-drawn illustrations stand out for their unmistakably human touch, which is exactly what makes them special. These authentic, artistic creations offer a personal touch that resonates with customers seeking a genuine, heartfelt connection. Many businesses are commissioning artists to create unique sticker collections that tell their brand story through original illustrations.

The charm of hand-drawn stickers lies in their imperfections and character. Each design reflects the artist's unique style and personality, creating a connection that perfectly polished vector designs can't match. Small businesses, in particular, are embracing this trend to highlight their artisanal nature and support local artists.

Collaborations between brands and artists are becoming increasingly popular, resulting in limited-edition sticker collections that generate excitement and become collectible items. To complement these designs, die-cut stickers are an excellent choice, allowing the sticker's shape to seamlessly match the illustration.

![hand-drawn stickers trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/844e2529-e481-4c41-bce9-1abcc3d3ceea)

###5. Minimalism

Minimalism is a broad term in graphic design, but a specific trend gaining traction this year is the use of simplistic, single-color designs. These include illustrations, typographic pieces, and minimalist logos transformed into stickers. By keeping things simple, designs often deliver a stronger message and leave a lasting impact.

While adding details can enhance designs in some cases, removing clutter is a powerful way to sharpen your message. For example, turning a black-and-white version of your logo into a sticker can be an effective way to promote your brand or cause.

As designers, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overloading a design with elements, thinking that more detail enriches it. However, avoiding dense layouts can be a refreshing change for viewers. To stay on-trend with minimalism, focus on simplicity—keeping it clean and "minimal," quite literally.

![minimalism sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ccd1e502-5f65-4a32-83fb-e03a668c7ad8)

###6. All that glitters

[Glitter stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers) are making a dazzling comeback in 2025, turning everyday items into sparkling statement pieces. These vibrant designs add a touch of shimmer to laptops, water bottles, phone cases, brand materials, and more. Much like [holographic stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers), their dynamic appearance changes as light hits them, creating an eye-catching, rainbow-like iridescence that demands attention.

One of their standout features is the ability to apply the sparkle effect selectively—whether it's highlighting specific elements of a logo or creating bold, fully glittered backgrounds. This flexibility allows brands to maintain their visual identity while adding just the right amount of shine to make their designs stand out.

Brands worldwide are leveraging glitter stickers to elevate their packaging and promotional materials. Their attention-grabbing nature makes them ideal for special edition products, seasonal campaigns, and creating share-worthy moments on social media.

![glitter stickers sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/55fbaef3-e1f7-477f-8525-b552ce306ef8)

###7. Putting your face on it

Personal branding is taking center stage in 2025, with entrepreneurs and businesses putting their faces front and center through custom stickers. This shift from traditional corporate logos to personal representation is redefining how brands connect with their audiences. By literally "putting their face on it," business owners convey confidence in their products and services while building trust with customers.

This trend aligns with a broader push for authenticity in business. Whether it’s a chef featuring an illustrated portrait on product packaging, a realtor using face stickers in marketing materials, or a content creator adding their likeness to merchandise, these personal touches help create immediate emotional connections. [Die-cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) work particularly well for maintaining the natural shape of the image, while [sticker sheets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) showcasing different expressions allow brands to convey various moods and personalities across touchpoints.

This approach highlights the real person behind the brand who believes in what they’re selling. It’s especially impactful on social media, where followers can match the face on purchased products to the person they’ve been engaging with online, bridging the gap between digital and physical brand experiences.

To make the process easier, our free tool, [Print](https://www.stickermule.com/print), quickly transforms your image into a printed product without the need for professional software. Need to remove a photo background? Try our [Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace) tool—it gets the job done in seconds.

###8. Gradients

In 2024, we saw gradients make a major comeback, appearing across all types of design touchpoints—from illustrations to websites. They’ve even re-emerged as integral elements of brand identities, not just temporary campaign visuals. It’s clear that gradients are here to stay for the foreseeable future, and likely well beyond.

It’s fascinating to see how widely used design elements can fall out of favor, becoming almost "taboo" in the design community, only to return after a hiatus feeling fresh again. This cycle has happened with sans-serif typography (still a go-to for many designers), isometric elements, flat design, low-poly visuals, and more. While gradients never fully disappeared, their resurgence has been undeniable—and we expect them to become even more prominent in 2025.

Although gradients work beautifully in digital designs, they can also enhance print projects. A gradient often adds depth and excitement to a design, making it far more dynamic than a flat, solid color. Incorporating gradients into your work can breathe new life into your visuals—you might be surprised by the impact they can have!

![gradient sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8e263074-9585-4b81-b188-7997a6fbb1fd)
By [Patswerk](https://dribbble.com/shots/21549871-Plakwerk)

###9. Custom typography

Typographic stickers, mostly produced as [die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers), are popular as always. From [vinyl lettering](https://www.stickermule.com/products/vinyl-lettering) to [rounded corner stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/rounded-corner-stickers) featuring unique fonts, businesses are using custom typography to make bold statements. These designs range from minimalist to elaborate, offering versatile options for brand expression.

The trend extends beyond simple text, with letters incorporating illustrations, patterns, and textures. Some brands are even creating custom alphabets that can be mixed and matched, allowing customers to craft personalized messages. The resurgence of hand-lettering and calligraphy has further influenced this trend, adding an artistic and human touch to text-based stickers.

Hand-drawn lettering has been a favorite for years, and when executed well, it continues to be a powerful tool for businesses and personal brands to communicate through typography.

Retail spaces are using large-format letter stickers for [floor graphics](https://www.stickermule.com/products/floor-graphics) and [wall graphics](https://www.stickermule.com/products/wall-graphics), while small businesses are creating custom lettering stickers for packaging and promotional materials. And don't forget about [front adhesive stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/front-adhesive-stickers), which are perfect for applying to the inside of windows for a clean, professional look.

![custom typography sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3dfacf95-517d-4aaa-8147-45a0650c9053)

###10. Kawaii

The rising popularity of [Kawaii](https://www.artsy.net/article/the-art-genome-project-what-is-kawaii)-style stickers highlights how this adorable Japanese aesthetic has become a global phenomenon. Characterized by cute characters with exaggerated features—such as large eyes, tiny mouths, and rounded, baby-like proportions—Kawaii designs have grown far beyond their anime and manga origins.

What makes this trend remarkable is how brands and creators, even those outside traditional Kawaii circles, are embracing and adapting it. From corporate mascots to food items, everything is being transformed into charming Kawaii characters, each with its own personality and universal appeal.

In the sticker world, Kawaii designs have proven to be incredibly versatile. Their cheerful and relatable nature makes them perfect for personal projects and brand assets alike. Small businesses are leveraging Kawaii mascots to make their brands more approachable, while tech companies are using these cute characters in product stickers to add warmth and personality to their corporate image.

The trend has also taken off in the planner and journaling community, where Kawaii stickers help users stay organized while adding a playful touch to their daily routines. What's particularly exciting is how Western designers are blending Kawaii elements with their own cultural influences, creating unique hybrid styles that retain the essential "cute factor" while appealing to a broader audience.

![kawaii sticker design trend](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/dd306dd2-0b01-4302-9d5b-3e0cb5183917)
By [Sofia Iudina](https://dribbble.com/shots/23897557-Boba-Inu-Sheet-of-Stickers)

##The Future of Sticker Design

These trends reflect broader shifts in consumer behavior and marketing strategies. The increasing demand for social media-worthy moments, unique materials, and personalized experiences is reshaping sticker design and its applications. Businesses that embrace these trends thoughtfully can foster stronger connections with their audiences and stand out in an increasingly visual world.

Ready to make your mark with [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers)? We’re the printing company that kicks ass—stickers aren’t just in our name, they’re what we do best.

While die-cut stickers remain the most popular choice, specialized options like [holographic](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers), [clear](https://www.stickermule.com/products/clear-stickers), and [glitter stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers) are rapidly gaining traction. Whatever your needs, we’ve got the perfect solution to help your brand stick. Literally.

Discover the top sticker design trends for 2025, from retro-inspired styles and holographic magic to Kawaii aesthetics and custom typography.

How to sell stickers online

Over the years, Sticker Mule has become one of the most popular destinations for creating high quality vinyl stickers. 

[Stores by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/stores/learn-more) enables all creators to open a fully functional store in seconds. All you have to do is upload your design, proof your design, and we’ll do all the rest, from collecting payment to production to fulfillment to customer service. 

While we hope everyone will give Stores a try, we understand that it's not for everyone, especially if you'll be selling stickers at very large volumes. We’ll walk you through the most popular ways to sell stickers online and provide you with advice and guidance.


##Amazon

![how to sell stickers on Amazon](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/76b9d821-7fd5-4fab-b99f-e14f80f9d308)

Amazon is widely regarded as the gold standard for online selling. While anyone can become an Amazon seller, Amazon is best suited for well-established brands, sellers who deal with very large quantities, or smaller sellers with a very unique design that will stand out above others. 

###How to sell stickers on Amazon

To start selling stickers on Amazon quickly, follow these steps:

1. __Set Up an Amazon Seller Account: __Choose between the Individual selling plan, where you pay $0.99 per sale, and the Professional selling plan, which costs $39.99 per month.

2. __Create a Product Detail Page: __This is where you’ll add your product title, images, bullet points, and description.

3. __Set Up Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): __With FBA, Amazon handles packaging, shipping, customer service, and returns. Fees depend on package weight and season. Amazon also charges a 15% referral fee on each sale.

 - For a low-weight product like stickers, the fulfillment fee will likely be around $3 per package.
 - Storage costs are about $0.80 per cubic foot for most of the year and increase to roughly $2.40 per cubic foot from October to December.
 - You also have to pay the postage of shipping your inventory to Amazon, and to keep your Amazon inventory up-to-date to avoid stockouts.


###Advantages and disadvantages of Amazon

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of selling stickers on Amazon:

__Advantages:__

- __Reach: __The main advantage is access to Amazon’s vast customer base. Every day over 200 million people come to Amazon to shop.

- __Prestige: __Selling on Amazon can also lend a certain credibility or cachet to your brand. Amazon's reputation can enhance your brand's credibility, making customers more comfortable purchasing your stickers.

- __Scale: __If you sell large quantities of stickers, you’ll want to buy them in bulk and have a site like Amazon maintain your inventory and do fulfillment. For example, if you get 10,000 stickers printed by Sticker Mule, your per-sticker cost goes down to about 21 cents per sticker; selling them on Amazon means you can enjoy higher margins.

__Disadvantages:__

- __Cost: __The biggest drawback is the cost. If you're selling at lower volumes, the fees (including set-up, referral, inventory and fulfillment charges) can easily wipe out your profits.

- __Competition: __Keep in mind that popular search terms like "anime stickers" or "cute stickers" are highly competitive, often dominated by large manufacturers who rank through things like good SEO, high sales velocity and positive reviews. 

There are a few types of sellers that can thrive on Amazon: 

- Those who have brands that are so recognized that shoppers search for them by name.
- Those who have are able to rank on Amazon's search engine.
- Those who are willing to pay for high Sponsored placement.

##Etsy

![selling stickers on etsy](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/55fe1bd4-b821-4381-adcb-8d8656f74778)

Etsy is well-known as the go-to marketplace for selling handmade products, especially for designers and creatives. Although they have recently expanded to include some mass-produced items, Etsy remains a top choice for unique, handcrafted goods.

###How to sell stickers on Etsy

Here’s how to start an Etsy store:

1. __Create an Etsy account: __Follow the “Sell on Etsy” instructions to set up your shop. You’ll choose a name, create your first listing, and provide payment and billing information to manage payments and fees.

2. __Pay set up fees: __You’ll be charged a one-time, non-refundable setup fee of either $15 or $29 to open your Etsy shop.

3. __Create listings: __Etsy recommends starting with at least five listings. During the listing process you may be required to provide the name of a Production partner. If so, please feel free to use the following information if you printed your stickers at Sticker Mule:

 - __Production partner: __Sticker Mule
 - __About production partner: __Sticker Mule is a leading producer of high quality vinyl stickers, manufactured from factories in New York, South Carolina, and Italy. 
 - __Location: __Amsterdam, NY

![what to fill in for etsy production partner](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c34008c3-92fa-4516-95a3-2b21cc1b5cf5)
4. Pack and ship each order: As customers order products, you’ll need to take care of packing, shipping, and handling customer service on your own.

###Advantages and disadvantages of Etsy

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of selling stickers on Etsy.

__Advantages:__

- __Reaching a niche market: __Etsy is a go-to destination for scrapbookers, artists, designers, and other creative professionals and hobbyists who may be looking for products like yours. In addition, you’re more likely to find customers who value supporting small businesses and artisans.

- __Branding: __Because you fulfill the order yourself, you can add postcards, thank you notes, and gifts with your order, which can help you build your brand.

__Disadvantages:__

- __Fulfillment: __Etsy can’t handle fulfillment for you, meaning you’ll need to maintain your own inventory and handle shipping and customer service.

- __Cost: __As with Amazon, in addition to the one-time setup fee, Etsy will charge commissions on every order. Each listing costs 20 cents to set up, and Etsy will charge a transaction fee of 6.5% of every sale. US sellers using Etsy payments will also need to pay an additional 3% of each sale, plus a flat 25 cent fee per transaction.

Here are some tips on how to thrive on Etsy:

- __Focus on your brand: __Tell your "story" and the story behind your stickers.

- __Optimize your listings for Etsy SEO: __Think of what words people search for to look for your kind of stickers. Go beyond basic keywords like "cute stickers" and describe your design. Include high quality photos and video to show your stickers from different angles and in real-life settings.

- __Engage with your customers: __Provide excellent customer service and encourage reviews.

##Sticker Mule Stores

Since Sticker Mule began in 2010, we’ve focused on helping artists and designers create custom stickers. Many of our customers have found success purchasing custom stickers from us and reselling them on platforms like Amazon or Etsy. Now, with the introduction of Stores, we’re making it even easier for you to sell directly to your customers.

Unlike other online marketplaces, we won’t charge you to set up a store or take a commission on your sales. Your only expense will be the regular cost of a custom sticker order.

###How to sell on Sticker Mule

Here’s how to start a Sticker Mule store:

1. Open a Sticker Mule account
2. Go to the My Store page
3. List a product. 

![sell stickers on sticker mule](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6d456399-703d-4d7e-9ef7-5a9a0f672e98)

We don’t charge a set-up fee, referral fees, or sales commissions. All you need to do is verify your identity and you place any order for a custom product (even a [$9 custom sample pack](https://www.stickermule.com/samples)) and you’re set to go.

For more details, visit our full blog post about [how to open a Sticker Mule Store](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/open-custom-sticker-store).

###How to make money on your Sticker Mule Store

By default, your store’s sticker prices match what you’d pay for a custom sticker order. However, there are two ways to earn from your store:

1. __Commissions: __When you get a new user to sign up or buy one of your products, you’ll earn a 10% commission on any order they place at Sticker Mule for the next year—whether it’s through your store, another store, or for custom products.
2. __Markup: __You can set a custom markup on your products. Whatever percentage you choose will be added to the base cost, and every bit of that markup goes directly to you when a customer makes a purchase.

###Advantages and disadvantages of Sticker Mule Stores

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of opening a Sticker Mule store.

__Advantages:__

- __Simplicity: __If you've already ordered custom stickers from Sticker Mule through our famously simple process, you're all set! Just list any designs you want to sell—stickers, T-shirts, magnets, and more—and we’ll take care of the rest.
- __Cost: __Operating a Sticker Mule Store is completely free—no commissions, setup costs, or referral fees.
- __Fulfillment: __We handle everything for you! From packaging to shipping, and even customer service, we’ve got it covered so you can focus on your designs.
- __Profit: __Earn a 10% commission from clicks on your link, plus set your own markup to maximize profits from each sale.

__Disadvantages:__

- __Reach: __The biggest challenge in selling stickers on smaller marketplace sites like Sticker Mule, RedBubble, Shopify, or you own custom website is reaching a wide audience.
- __High volumes: __If you know you'll be selling to thousands of shoppers, your profit margins will likely be higher if you buy in bulk from us and then sell on a platform like Etsy.

We'll be working on boosting store visibility by showcasing your products to the millions of visitors that we get every month and finding new ways to drive traffic to your site. Keep an eye on our blog and social media for news about improvements to Stores, tips, and more.

While we work on boosting store visibility, you can help by:

1. Following our tips on [setting up, naming](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/open-custom-sticker-store), and [promoting your store](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-promote-your-sticker-mule-store).
2. [Creating standout sticker designs](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-design-stickers-guide)—cool, funny, beautiful, unique, or just plain awesome.

##Conclusion 

There really is no one answer to the question, "where do I sell my stickers online". A lot depends on your own strength and reach as a brand and how much time, expense, and work you put into getting visibility on whatever platform you choose.

We designed Stores by Sticker Mule to open up new options for you as a seller, regardless of your size.

- If you're a smaller creator, we're excited to provide you an easy, no-risk way of dipping your toes into the world of selling stickers. Unlike Etsy and Amazon, you can sign up in a few clicks and won't have to deal with setting up your storefront, nor the costs associated with fulfillment, inventory, or referral fees.
- If you’re a larger creator, Stores by Sticker Mule can complement your existing storefront and be used creatively. With our drop-shipping service, you can test new sticker designs with a smaller audience without managing inventory. Once you identify a “winning” design, you can confidently place a bulk order and sell to a broader audience.

We’re excited to shake things up and give you an alternative to big platforms like Amazon or Etsy! Our goal is to empower you with a simple, streamlined way to reach your customers.
Got ideas to make stores even better? We’d love to hear from you! 
This is just the beginning—we’re constantly working on new features and will be sharing helpful tips on our blog to support your success. Let’s make your sticker store thrive together!


Learn how to sell stickers online with our comprehensive guide. Explore platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and Sticker Mule Stores to find the best fit for you.

Sticker Mule hires inventor of DTG printing

Sticker Mule, the Internet's fastest growing [t-shirt printer](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts), is proud to announce the appointment of Matthew Rhome, the inventor of the Direct-to-Garment (DTG) inkjet printer, to serve as the company’s Director of Quality and Efficiency.

“We like to be the absolute best at everything we do. DTG is a rapidly developing technology that will soon replace traditional screen printing. Matt Rhome is a genius-level innovator that is going to help us deliver the future of printing to everyone on the Internet,” said Anthony Constantino.

Rhome will collaborate with in-house engineering at Sticker Mule and guide DTG printing innovation to help Sticker Mule migrate apparel printing from old-school screen printing to a modern DTG process by continually improving the quality, cost efficiency and turnaround of Sticker Mule’s apparel printing processes.

According to Constantino, “Sticker Mule migrated the world of stickers from traditional printing to a fully digital process. With Matt’s help, we’re going to do the same with t-shirts and apparel. It’s just a matter of improving quality and reducing cost until it makes more sense to print DTG for all quantities. We’ll make that happen sooner than people think possible.”

"Sticker Mule's bold vision and authentic corporate culture motivated me to join the team,” Rhome stated. “Having followed the company's journey for some time, I have come to appreciate how it stands out in the industry. I have known Anthony, Sticker Mule's CEO, for many years, and his steadfast dedication to quality and innovation deeply inspires me. His ability to lead with integrity and having a clear focus on customer satisfaction is inspiring. I truly admire the impactful work he is doing, and I am honored to have the opportunity to join his team and contribute to this exciting mission.”

“Rhome’s journey began when he screen-printed shirts at 14 for his Boy Scout troop. After launching a screen-printing business in the 1980s, he developed the idea for the DTG printer, aiming to create a more environmentally friendly and efficient printing solution. 

In 1996, Rhome invented and patented the first commercially available DTG printer. It became a worldwide sensation that revolutionized the t-shirt printing industry. Prior to joining Sticker Mule, he played a key role in advancing the DTG printer business at both Brother and Epson.

This September, Rhome was honored with the prestigious Joe Clarke Innovator Award at the Printing United Expo to recognize his work to advance the printing industry.

Direct-to-Garment Pioneer, Matthew Rhome, Hired as Director of Quality and Efficiency to Guarantee Sticker Mule is the Internet’s Top T-Shirt Printer. 

How to make pixel art in Adobe Illustrator

Who would’ve thought 30 years ago that we'd be trying to create pixel art in Adobe Illustrator today? Back in the day, we longed for the highest resolution displays so that pixelation would ultimately disappear from our lives. But as Gen-X and Millennials start to reminisce on the "good old days" of Mario, Sonic, and Pokemon, the pixelated art has never been more popular and has become a popular and deliberate artistic choice for indie games, digital art, and yes, stickers.

![Guide to creating pixel art](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8002b78c-227b-421c-aadd-cf7d209db031)

Creating authentic-looking pixel art can be challenging. While well-known pixel artists such as [Eboy](https://www.eboy.com/) started out with Photoshop, Illustrator is still the preferred software when it comes to print projects. Because you know, vectors and stuff.

You’ve probably been down the road of stacking squares one by one, but that turns into a daunting task that can take hours to complete, especially with bigger illustrations that use more pixels. 

AI is another option, but as you work with AI-generated art you'll find that AI has its own artistic "style". As the world gets littered with more and more of this style, the demand for authentic, human-created art will grow more, not less. You'll want to make sure as an artist you're well-versed in proper techniques and making your own adjustments so that your "humanity" will come through.

Let’s speed things up so you’ll be ready in minutes.

##How to create quick pixel art in Adobe Illustrator

###Step 1 - Select your object

Select the object you want to convert to pixel art. This can be an illustration, a photograph, or anything else. If it’s a vector illustration you’ve already created, make sure to create a screenshot or export it as a JPG/PNG first as this method only works on bitmap images.

![selecting a bitmap image to start with](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8e4d15fa-fa59-4356-9830-43f03a57fe49)

###Step 2 - Set the number of pixels

Go to __Object > Create Object Mosaic__. Set the number of pixels you want to have horizontally/vertically and click on __Use Ratio__ to get square-oriented pixels. Hit *OK*.

![setting the number of pixels](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/580182ed-090c-4242-9758-b36250d2ad33)

###Step 3 - Removing background pixels

Use the __Direct Selection Tool (A)__ and select one of the background pixels. Then, go to __Select > Same > Fill Color__ and hit __Backspace (⌫)__ to remove them all at once.

![remove the background](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e1681a8b-ccca-45f8-a13f-b1183cf3c09b)

###Step 4 - Remove the underlying image

For some reason, Illustrator always keeps the original image below the effect:

![Illustrator keeps the original image below the effect](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/73c4d957-fbb1-44bb-a1d1-c016ce58be4c)

To fix this, go to the __Direct Selection Tool (A)__ once again, select that underlying image and remove it using __Backspace (⌫)__. That looks better!

![that looks better!](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d3d6f5fe-cc1a-4f53-b565-b8594de87c17)

###Step 5 - Clean up unwanted pixels

Now clean up any unwanted pixels using the __Direct Selection Tool (A)__ or add additional pixels wherever you want. Minimizing the amount of different shades of colors can make your design appear cleaner and fresher.

![clean up extra pixels](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/52735983-7f3d-466b-b2f4-0100d0d94b9e)

###Step 6 - Creating a border for die-cut stickers

In case you want to slap it on a [die cut sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers), a border around it will come in handy to create some cutting margin during the production process. It also makes it look like a sticker right away, right? 

Copy the complete design (__⌘+C__ on Mac, __Ctrl+C__ on Windows), go to __Window > Pathfinder__ and choose __Unite__. Then, set the color to white and go to __Object > Path > Offset Path__. After selecting your size and type of joins, hit __OK__.

![adding a border](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c673a11a-fa4f-4cae-bdcf-99ba3d1d3917)

###Step 7 - pasting the object over the border

Lastly, remove the inner shape and "Paste in Front" by hitting (__⌘+F__ on Mac, __Ctrl-F__ on Windows). This will paste the original artwork back in the exact same place. 

![your completed pixelated design](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/175bba2e-e283-4f26-8ce5-097ee4b668a8)

Done! From here on you can make any further edits before sending it over to include in a larger design or to create products like [die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) or [magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-magnets). This method works best for images with high contrasts, but even converting images like a gradient to a pixel grid like this can become a true work of art. 

Have fun testing this method out with different types of images and adjusting the amount of pixels to see what it becomes. 



Pixels are "in" as the 80s and 90s take their turn to be retro-cool. Interested in making the next Minecraft or Mario? Learn how from our experts.

How to make money selling art online with YouTube influencer Mey Aroyo

Mey Aroyo is a creative entrepreneur and educator who empowers graphic designers, artists, and creatives to monetize their are online. Through her [YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPWS4mmfx3Eq5lHsqoWWYXg) she offers tutorials on print-on-demand services, affiliate marketing, and digital downloads, providing valuable insights into the age-old question, "how do I make money doing selling art online?"

Mey's journey into the digital realm began in 2011, focusing on SEO content and digital marketing. In 2017, she ventured into print-on-demand, a field that became her passion. She started her YouTube channel in 2021, dedicated to helping creatives establish successful online businesses. 

Her fans and followers admire her for her authenticity, practical advice, and inspiring journey, which empower and motivate them to pursue their own goals confidently. Her content is a valuable resource for any artist or entrepreneur looking to turn their passion for art into profit on marketplaces from Zazzle to Etsy to a number of print-on-demand marketplaces.

We’re excited to partner with Mey, who produced this fantastic video on her experiences starting her own Sticker Mule Store.

<YouTubeVideo videoId="5shN0IgYXVo?rel=0" />

Use these links if you'd like to jump to a specific part of the video.

__Introduction:__

- [0:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=0s) Introduction
- [0:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=15s) What is Sticker Mule?
- [1:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=70s) Who is Mey Aroyo?
- [1:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=94s) How to open a Sticker Mule Store

__Designing products:__

- [1:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=118s) Designing a t-shirt
- [3:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=223s) Designing sticker sheets
- [5:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=305s) Designing temporary tattoos
- [5:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=319s) Designing circle stickers

__Sticker Mule's tools and online proofing:__

- [5:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=356s) Using Upscale
- [6:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=397s) Designing keychains using Sticker Mule Studio
- [7:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=467s) How online proofing works

__Opening a Sticker Mule Store:__

- [8:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=510s) Opening a Sticker Mule Store
- [9:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=554s) Customizing your Store
- [10:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=625s) Adding products to your Store

__Making money:__

- [10:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=658s) Making money with Markup
- [12:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=745s) Making money with Commissions

__Mey's favorite Sticker Mule Stores:__

- [13:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=813s) GlassFairies
- [14:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=847s) Candice Stewart
- [14:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=878s) Mike Tyson

__Unboxing:__

- [15:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=908s) Unboxing: t-shirts
- [17:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=1024s) Unboxing: keychains
- [18:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=1114s) Unboxing: temporary tattoos
- [18:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=1129s) Unboxing: circle stickers
- [19:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=1164s) Unboxing: sticker sheets

__Conclusion: __

- [21:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shN0IgYXVo&t=1260s) Conclusion

Our thanks for Mey for giving us a try, for her thoughtful and in-depth review, and for sharing her fabulous creations!

If you'd like to own any of Mey's merch for yourself, it's all available at [her Sticker Mule Store](https://www.stickermule.com/mayamey). You can also follow Mey on [her YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPWS4mmfx3Eq5lHsqoWWYXg) to learn much more about how to make money as a designer online.

If you're inspired to start selling your own merch, click here to learn more and get started.

<ButtonCta text="Sell stickers online" href="https://www.stickermule.com/stores/learn-more" />




Mey Aroyo helps artists monetize their art online with tips on starting a Sticker Mule store, designing products, and boosting profits. 

How Fishtank merch generated $40k in sales in 2 weeks

__The Internet’s most addictive social experiment turned its hype into profit—and you can too.__

When Season 3 of [Fishtank](https://www.fishtank.live/) launched, the Internet was ready for another six weeks of chaos, laughter, and immersion in one of the most unconventional reality shows ever created. But what really made waves this season wasn’t just the action in the house—it was how Fishtank turned fan obsession into serious cash, all while growing its brand.

The secret? A partnership with Sticker Mule that required almost no effort from Fishtank but delivered huge results: a custom merch store that sold like crazy and built the brand’s cult status even further.

Here’s how Fishtank pulled it off—and how you can, too.

##Turning fans into customers—effortlessly

Fishtank Live isn’t your average show. It’s a 24/7 livestream where fans don’t just watch—they shape the action. Through AI-powered text-to-speech messages, playful pranks, and contestant “Fishtoy” gifts, fans are active participants. This level of engagement created a golden opportunity to monetize the fanbase with merch.

That’s where Sticker Mule came in. By launching a dedicated [Fishtank Merch Store](https://www.stickermule.com/fishtank), powered entirely by Sticker Mule, Fishtank unlocked a new revenue stream without lifting a finger. The store featured custom stickers, posters, and other designs that perfectly captured the humor and energy of the show.

The result? Fans went wild.

In just two weeks, the Fishtank Merch Store hit over $40,000 in sales, allowing the brand to earn over $11,000 in profit during that period. At one point orders flooded in so fast that Fishtank had to disable email notifications just to keep their inbox under control.

What made it work?

###A Built-In Audience

Fishtank fans were already highly engaged, making them the perfect market for exclusive merch. The store didn’t need a hard sell—fans were eager to support their favorite contestants and own a piece of the show.

###Seamless Integration
The Sticker Mule team worked closely with Fishtank to create designs that were authentic to the show. From contestants wearing Sticker Mule shirts to custom stickers scattered around the house, the brand became part of the Fishtank experience.

###Zero Operational Headache
Sticker Mule’s print-on-demand model handled everything: production, shipping, and customer service. Fishtank reaped the rewards without having to manage the logistics.

##How Sticker Mule boosted the brand and sales

The collaboration wasn’t just about selling merch—it was about making Fishtank even bigger. Fishtank fans aren't just viewers, they're participants, influencers, and superfans. Similarly, Sticker Mule wasn't just a sponsor, we were active participants in the experience.

###Herman the Mule’s Cameo
Sticker Mule’s mascot, Herman, [made a surprise appearance](https://x.com/fishtankislive/status/1859742430188405166), instantly becoming a fan-favorite moment.

![Herman the Mule visits Fishtank live](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/966906eb-d8ce-4df2-9c34-a4dc1d751287)

###In-House Challenges
[Sticker Mule sent its team](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTFXt4ePkq0) (and iconic orange-wrapped Cybertruck) to host a self-defense class for contestants, adding even more entertainment value.
![The Sticker Mule team and the iconic Sticker Mule Cybertruck pay a visit to Fishtank Live](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/71aded35-e35b-4687-ab0a-156c3df01be8)

###Constant Visibility
The dedicated merch link [StickerMule.com/fishtank](https://www.stickermule.com/fishtank) was featured [throughout the show](https://x.com/0x0celot/status/1856443890967998794) in a seamless and natural way. Viewers purchased products not because they were pushed onto them, but because they genuinely wanted them.

![Poster design contest at Fishtank](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d0f42296-92d4-4dde-bf28-0017f647a792)

##The takeaway: you can do this too
What happened with Fishtank is proof that you don’t need to be a massive brand to monetize effectively. By leveraging Sticker Mule Stores, creators and brands can turn their audience into paying customers without dealing with the hassle of inventory, shipping, or production.

Here's what our CEO, Anthony Constantino had to say: “Our goal with Sticker Mule Stores has always been to help creators connect with their audiences through merch. Seeing the Fishtank store take off shows just how powerful that connection can be. When fans love what you’re doing, the sales follow naturally.”

##Ready to cash in?
Whether you’re a creator, streamer, or entrepreneur, the formula is simple: build something your fans love, and Sticker Mule will handle the rest. [Start your store today](https://stickermule.com/stores/learn-more), just like Fishtank did, and see how easy it is to turn fan passion into profit.

As for Fishtank? Season 3's chaos might end on December 8, but the merch (and the money) isn’t going anywhere. Shop the collection at [StickerMule.com/fishtank](https://www.stickermule.com/fishtank) and grab a piece of internet history. 
If you’ve been waiting to turn your brand into a cult favorite, this is your sign. Sticker Mule makes it effortless—and the results speak for themselves.


Sticker Mule partnered with Fishtank Live to enable top quality, on-demand purchase of their iconic posters and stickers. See how it went.

Fishtank Live merch on Sticker Mule: turning branding into profit

How to create a fully editable 3D text effect in Adobe Illustrator

Remember those times when you wanted to create a 3D text effect in Adobe Illustrator using the good old Blend Tool? This required converting the text to outlines before you could proceed with the actual process of creating the text effect, and it would take a huge chunk of your time to do it.

But what if you wanted to apply it to a different word, try another font, or create multiple variations throughout a project? While it can be fun to create one of them, it will quickly turn into a hair-grabbing task if you have to do this too many times.

Luckily, Adobe Illustrator’s Appearance panel helps you build up your effects from scratch before you can save them forever as a Graphic Style. From there, you can use it over and over again. Magic!

##How to create an editable 3d text effect in Adobe Illustrator

###Step 1: Open the Appearance panel

Select your text and go to __Window > Appearance__ to open up the Appearance panel.

![Selecting Window > Appearance to open up the Appearance panel](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c94e07f7-6082-449b-bf03-2027cac729a4)

###Step 2: Add and organize fills

Remove any fill or stroke from the text. Then, at the bottom of the panel, head over to __Add New Fill__ and add 2 separate fills. 

The lowest fill viewed in the panel will be the shadow part and the fill above will be your text color.

__Tip: __Keep enough contrast between both colors to make it really "pop".

![Remove fill or stroke from the text](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/730c7abc-b0c4-48a3-8220-a445195a08a5)

###Step 3: Apply offset path for depth

Now go back and select the lower fill, click on the __fx__ icon at the bottom and go to __Path > Offset Path__. Choose your desired size and set the __Joins__ to __Round__. Click __OK__.

![Apply offset path for depth](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/08693765-0741-434c-b0e1-3760fd0783fd)

###Step 4: Transform and duplicate for shadow effect

With the same lower fill selected, head over to __fx__ again and go to __Distort & Transform > Transform__. In the Move section, add 0.5 px to both the horizontal and vertical sides. Then, choose the number of copies you want and hit __OK__.

![Transform and duplicate for shadow effect](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7bae3837-4fb4-4b11-b0cc-3d98193243bb)

###Step 5: Save as a graphic style

Go to __Window > Graphic Styles__ and drag your text into this panel. Now it's part of this document each time you open it. If you want to have this text effect saved for other documents as well, go to the library icon at the bottom left corner and select __Save Graphic Styles__. Make sure to remove any graphic styles in there that you don't want to save.

![Save as a graphic style](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/fa65de98-62e4-4e57-ba69-bf58550bdfeb)

Well, that’s all! This way your text is fully editable and you don't need to create this effect ever again. Changing the colors, the depth of the shadows, and any other edits can be done through the Appearance panel after selecting the text. 

And as promised, whenever you want to change the text, it's kept intact so it will be ready to get swapped for another piece of text anytime you want.

The same Offset Path feature can be used to [create a sticker cut line](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-create-a-sticker-cut-line) as well, which is an important part of creating die cut stickers, and using this method will keep you from doing this manually.

Want to slap this design onto a sticker? Our [custom die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) would be a perfect fit. With thick, durable vinyl that protects your stickers from scratches, water & sunlight. 

<ButtonCta text="Start designing custom stickers today" href="https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers" />




Learn how to create an editable 3D text effect in Adobe Illustrator using the Appearance panel. Perfect for stickers and beyond!

Make a 3D text effect in Adobe Illustrator

How to promote your Sticker Mule store

With [Stores by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/stores), there’s never been an easier way for artists, creators, and businesses to sell their own custom merchandise.

![How to promote your Sticker Mule store](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8c7a6d58-54a3-44e2-b221-90ce7319ecd0)

No matter what type of designs you sell, every store can benefit from promotion.

Before you promote your store, make sure it and each product is properly set up and optimized. [Learn more about setting up your store](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/open-custom-sticker-store).

Once your store is set up and optimized, it’s time to let people know about it.

##How to promote your store on social media

Social media is one of the easiest ways to reach existing friends and followers, while making new ones.

###Use photography & video

Assuming you still have some of your products on hand, get some pictures of your stickers or t-shirts in real life. No need for a fancy camera, an iPhone will do. Posting real pictures or videos of your products will help legitimize your store.

![Instagram post with photography](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/2cb7f7d3-36d6-486c-96e4-c748701ac95b)

###Find your niche

Find the right audience for the designs you’re selling. Engage with other creators and people in the space – without spamming links to your store. As you build credibility and a following, it will be a lot easier, and more natural, to promote your store.

###Use the right platform

Figure out which platforms you should prioritize on based on where your audience spends their time. LinkedIn might not be the best place to promote furry stickers, but it might be great for promoting your company’s logo stickers.

![LinkedIn post with logo stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/bcd0e740-fd1e-4da8-b22d-c874d24f4178)

###Link to specific items

While it might make sense to share a link to your store, don’t forget that you can link to specific items as well. If you share a picture of a specific item, it might make sense to link directly to that product page rather than your actual store – less work for your potential customers.

![X post with URL to item page](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3bee3881-2d6f-42aa-9556-db2e93c3e093)

Tip: Some social media sites deboost posts with links, so consider leaving a link in the comment of your post instead of the post itself.

###Prioritize quality over quantity

It might be tempting to constantly post links to your store, but be careful to avoid spamming your audience with low quality, repetitive content.

![Still of an unboxing video, YouTube screenshot](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f4c4afe2-63fb-46b4-8c39-86cff7df3bfb)

Put in effort to make each post unique. Consider creating a quality unboxing video. Or make a longer post explaining a particular design.

##Other ways to market your store

We’ve probably sold more stickers than anyone, so steal some of our strategies when promoting your products.

###Offer discounts

People respond well to time sensitive promotions. Consider lowering your markup for a short period, in order to entice people to buy your products. For example you might run a deal on a particular t-shirt: Get this shirt for $21 (normally $29). Just don’t forget to change the markup after the deal is over.

![Screenshot of markup feature](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/662aad44-df32-40a8-959d-9cad1dec0b08)

Tip: You can actually still make money with 0% markup thanks to Commissions.

###Utilize email marketing

If you have an email list, use it.

![Screenshot of email](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/04a4ae87-7ad8-41c3-bca1-8fa4a707f680)

We like to keep our emails short and direct (and sometimes funny). Use emails to announce a deal or a new product.

###Link from your website

If you have a website, link to your store. Or consider using images and linking directly to products.

Tip: The more quality links you can get to your store, the better your chances of showing up on Google.

###Rep your store

Put your stickers on your laptop. Wear your t-shirt. Show off your items in real life as much as possible.

![IRL photo of person wearing t-shirt](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3243e89f-bfbf-4afe-8b90-9e1dec220769)

If people like what they see, be prepared to tell them where they can buy.

###Encourage engagement

Of course you want people to buy your products, but getting them to like your items and follow your store helps too.

![gif of liking an item](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/192d27ad-d7b4-4705-87ce-02465b7ae5a0)

When someone likes an item, it’ll help its rank on the popular feed. When someone follows your store, your items will show up on their following feed.

##Conclusion

With a little strategy and creativity, you can connect with potential customers across social media, through email, and in real life. Make sure your products look great, your promotions are enticing, and your audience feels engaged.

<ButtonCta text="Set up your store" href="https://www.stickermule.com/stores/learn-more" />

P.S. We’re building more features to make it even easier to promote your store and your products.


Learn how to effectively promote your Sticker Mule store! Discover tips for social media marketing, email campaigns, discounts, and more to boost sales.

Tips for promoting your sticker store

Custom sticker printing: Making custom stickers, part 2

In [part one of this guide](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-design-stickers-guide), we covered design fundamentals and how to apply them in sticker design. In this post we'll cover how to get your designs printed onto top-quality vinyl, right here on Sticker Mule.

##5. Preparing your design for print

Before you send your design off for printing, there are a few things you need to check to make sure it’s print-ready.

###Choosing the right format

When exporting your design, make sure to use a print-friendly file format. Vector files like EPS or PDF are ideal for printing because they can be resized without losing any quality. If you’re working with raster images, make sure your resolution is set to 300 DPI (dots per inch) for a sharp result. Did you already export your design and aren't sure what resolution it was exported at? We’ve explained how you can check this [in this step-by-step guide](https://www.stickermule.com/support/artwork-ppi).

###Bleed margins

To make sure that your sticker doesn’t get cut off at the edges during printing, include a bleed area of 0.125” around your design. In Adobe Illustrator, you can easily do this by selecting your design and going to __Object > Path > Offset Path__. Now set the size to 0.125 inches. In the *Joins* section, select *Round* to create smoother corners. Hit __OK__. Now go to Pathfinder and select __Add__ to merge all elements into one path.

###Add a cut line

If you have designed a die-cut or kiss-cut sticker, a cut line is always useful for us to have. Decide where you want to have your sticker cut and create 1 shape out of that using the "Offset Path + Pathfinder" method described above. Place this inside a new layer, call it "Cut line" and give it a separate color that’s not used in your design.

###Resolution

It’s also a good idea to double-check that your design is at the correct resolution before exporting. With raster images, aim for at least 300 DPI to avoid any blurriness or pixelation. 

###Proofing your design

Before placing an order, it might be necessary to get a proof of your design. Here at Sticker Mule we offer [auto-approving proofs](https://www.stickermule.com/support/how-does-auto-approving-proofs-work). During checkout, our system will scan your artwork to determine if a proof is necessary. If you'd still like to receive a proof though, you can choose to have one sent by selecting ‘No thanks’.

![Upload option of Sticker Mule during the order process for custom stickers, with the option to auto-approve the stickers and save time.](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1a8f9482-3d6f-4193-8995-c1d727922436)

If any of the above looks intimidating, we’re here to help. Our tools like [Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio) and [Print](https://www.stickermule.com/print) help simplify this process without using complex software.

Want to see what the process of designing a sticker in Adobe Illustrator can look like? We’ve made a [step-by-step video tutorial](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-design-stickers?srsltid=AfmBOoooqIGG29Xu762Wm4xBqkU9T4Nj1Yqtc7W29alWMagyTcgSGTTl) showing exactly that.

##6. Printing your stickers

Once your print-file is ready, it's time to print! 

###Exploring your options

Once you've nailed down your sticker design, the next step is bringing it to life! There are several options for printing stickers, depending on your budget, volume, and the look you’re aiming for. Here’s a quick overview of the most popular choices:

- __Home Printing__ - If you're just doing this for fun and aren't too particular about quality, home printing is the quickest option. Invest in sticker paper compatible with your printer (inkjet or laser), and you can print your designs right at home. Just remember, the quality of your printer and paper will directly affect the final result, and that because home printing often involves a lot of trial and error the cost of consumables may not make this the most affordable option.

- __Vinyl Cutting Machines__ - For serious DIY enthusiasts or small businesses, vinyl cutting machines like Cricut or Silhouette are game changers. These machines let you print and cut stickers at home, offering more precision and a professional finish compared to traditional home printing. Remember again, though, that when you factor in your investment for equipment, consumables, and your own time you may not be saving that much money (and the quality will often be subpar to a professional print service with million-dollar equipment and high quality materials). 

- __ Local Print Shops__ - For those who prefer professional-quality prints without the commitment of bulk orders, local print shops are a fantastic choice. They often offer a range of materials and finishes, such as glossy, matte, or waterproof stickers, and can help you fine-tune your design for optimal results.

- __ Online Printing Services__ - Online sticker printing services (like [us](https://www.stickermule.com/)!) allow you to upload your designs, choose from a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, and receive professionally printed stickers delivered to your doorstep. This option is ideal for scaling to higher production volumes while ensuring top-notch quality. 

###Choose the type of sticker

Your choice of a sticker printer also depends on what kind of sticker you choose to make. 

The top custom sticker manufacturers (like [us](https://www.stickermule.com/)!) also accomodate unique options (like holographic or die-cut stickers) for businesses and creators looking to  tand out with special features.

Technically, most stickers fall into one of the two most popular categories as we described them in our last post: die-cut stickers and kiss-cut stickers.  

- __Die-cut stickers__

 - __[Die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers)__ - These stickers are cut into any custom shape you like, running along the contours of your design. They are used as collectibles, personal expression, promotional designs, and decorating laptops, water bottles, or vehicles.

 - __[Circle stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/circle-stickers)__ - These stickers are die-cut into the shape of a circle. Circle stickers are most commonly used for branding, product labels, personalization, packaging seals, and event favors.

 - __[Rectangle stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/rectangle-stickers)__ - These are die-cut into the shape of a rectangle. Rectangle stickers are commonly used for product labels, business branding, signage, packaging, and informational displays.

 - __[Square stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/square-stickers)__ - These are die-cut into the shape of a square. Companies use square stickers for branding, product packaging, social media promotion, and decorative personalization.

 - __[Oval stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/oval-stickers)__ - These are die-cut into the shape of an oval. Oval stickers are most commonly used for product labeling, business branding, vehicle decals, and promotional giveaways.

 - __[Bumper stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/bumper-stickers)__ - These are die-cut into a large rectangle. Bumper stickers are of course used for political statements, advertisements, humor, personal expression, and advocacy for causes.

 - __[Rounded corner stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/rounded-corner-stickers)__ - These stickers are die-cut into the shape of a square with the corners rounded. Rounded corner stickers are most commonly used for sleek product labels, business branding, packaging, and professional promotional materials.

 - __[Clear stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/clear-stickers)__ - Clear stickers are essentially die-cut stickers printed on clear vinyl instead of white vinyl. They're great for things like windows and drinking glasses.

 - __[Front adhesive stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/front-adhesive-stickers)__ - These are stickers where your design is printed on the sticky side (think of a sticker you might get from the DMV). They're not quite as pristine as printed transfer stickers, but they still look great and are a lot quicker and easier to use.

 - __[Holographic stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers)__ - These are vinyl stickers with an overlay of reflective foil that appear iridescent and rainbow-like. They're used for futuristic and tech-inspired themes, as well as fantasy, space, and sci-fi themes. 

 - __[Glitter stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers)__ - These are vinyl stickers that are laminated with a glittery, sparkly overlay. They evoke a feeling of playfulness and whimsy, andd are often used for festive, glamorous, and kids' stickers.

 - __[Static clings](https://stickermule.com/products/static-clings)__ - Afraid of commitment? Static cling "stickers" are die-cut stickers made of vinyl without any stickiness applied to them; through the magic of static electricity and molecular adhesion they "stick" to any clean and smooth non-porous surface like glass. They first became popular in the 1960s with holiday-themed clings for windows (e.g. Christmas snowflakes) and reached their peak in popularity in the 1970s and 1980s with sports-themed clings and cartoon characters like Garfield. 

- __Kiss-cut stickers__:

 - __[Kiss-cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/kiss-cut-stickers)__ - As we mentioned in the last post, kiss-cut stickers are easy to peel and use because because the designs are cut through the vinyl layer but not the backing. They can be shaped just the same as any die-cut sticker. 

 - __[Sticker sheets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/sticker-sheets)__ - Sticker sheets are essentially kiss cut stickers. The key difference is that a sticker sheet contains multiple kiss-cut stickers on a single backing sheet, allowing for various designs, shapes, or sizes to be arranged together. 

Here's a little "hack" for you. If you just need stickers for using (and not distributing), you can save some money by printing multiple copies of the same design on a sticker sheet. For example, 50 3" x 3" die-cut stickers cost $72, but ten 8.5" x 11" sticker sheets (each which can fit six 3" x 3" designs) cost the same, yielding you an extra 10 stickers. You can get even more savings at higher volumes.

- __Transfer stickers__:

 - __[Transfer stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/transfer-stickers)__ - Transfer stickers are made of pre-cut designs or text on adhesive vinyl, with a clear or paper transfer layer that ensures precise application by "rubbing" the pieces together until firmly adhered to a surface. Sticker Mule originally only sold regular transfer stickers on black or white vinyl. 

 - __[Printed transfer stickers:](https://www.stickermule.com/products/printed-transfer-stickers)__ - Recently, we introduced full-color transfer stickers with printing that allow you to use full colors, not just black and white. 

 - __ [Vinyl lettering](https://www.stickermule.com/products/vinyl-lettering)__ - This is a specialized kind of transfer sticker consisting of letters you can use to add words to storefront windows, car windows, or boats. You can, of course, use your own font in a transfer sticker or printed transfer sticker, but the 13 fonts we've provided for vinyl lettering are the most popular, appealing, and cleanest we've found.

![A shipping box with a blue ‘You’re in’ sticker applied to it.](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c1456659-d819-414b-ae11-1dbd6b27edd4)

##7. Ordering your stickers
So, your file is ready and you have decided what type of sticker you want it to be. Now it’s time to place the order so you’ll have your beloved stickers in hand before you know it.

###How to order
When it comes to ordering your stickers, you’ll need to consider whether you want to print them in bulk so you can maintain your own inventory (for example, for distributing to your customers or selling on sites like Amazon or Etsy) or if you'd like us to print and fulfil your stickers on-demand as your customers order them. 

- __Ordering for inventory__ - Ordering upfront can save you money in the long run. Bulk orders typically reduce the cost per sticker, making it a cost-effective option if you plan to distribute a large number of stickers or use them for marketing campaigns, events, or merchandise. It’s an ideal option if you’re confident it will sell, if you need to have all stickers close by, or want to make a significant impact with mass distribution. Because larger print runs are more efficient, the more you print, the more you can save.

- __On-demand__ - If you sell stickers to your audience, you may want to go with an on-demand option such as [Stores](https://www.stickermule.com/stores/learn-more) rather than dealing with the hassle of maintaining inventory yourself. This way your customers can order your stickers (as well as other items such as t-shirts, buttons, keychains, and much more) and we'll take care of printing them, hosting your Web shop, shipping them, and even handling customer service—at no additional cost over what you'd pay for the sticker yourself. By letting us take care of all of this, you can focus on what you do best—designing!

Many of our customers use Stores as their main storefront, but even if you sell on sites like Amazon or Etsy, this option is great for testing out different designs or catering to niche audiences. It allows you to experiment and update your designs without the commitment of stocking large quantities or the hassle of being stuck with leftover inventory if a design doesn’t sell as expected.

![Homepage of Sticker Mule Stores, a way to easily sell items such as stickers and t-shirts to make money online.](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/27daa3bb-eaaf-4a69-8ec6-f75854e2c4e8)

It’s an easy and efficient way to monetize your designs with minimal effort and give your audience another way to support you—and [it takes seconds to set up](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/open-custom-sticker-store). [Have a look](https://www.stickermule.com/stores) at what other people are already selling on Stores.

##8. Marketing your sticker
Once your stickers are ready, the next step is to promote them effectively. Today, there are countless modern and creative ways to market your stickers and get your designs in front of potential customers and fans. Here’s how to leverage some of the most popular marketing channels:

###Social Media Platforms
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your stickers. Platforms like [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/), [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/), and [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/), with their highly visual nature, are perfect for showcasing your designs. Share photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your design process to build excitement and connect with your audience.

###Engage with your audience
Host sticker giveaways or use trending hashtags to inspire your designs and increase visibility. For even more exposure, consider collaborating with influencers or content creators who align with your brand’s aesthetic. Tagging @stickermule or using the hashtag #stickermule helps us see your post. We might even share it on our channel!

###Sell directly via Stores
As mentioned, we offer a simple way to sell your stickers through our [Stores](https://www.stickermule.com/stores/learn-more) platform. No need to worry about setting up your own web shop. We take care of all the logistics, giving you a straightforward platform to display and sell your designs. You can direct your audience to your own store through your social media channels, making it easy for followers to purchase your stickers. People are even browsing through the designs, making it possible for them to discover you on the platform itself.

![The search option of Sticker Mule Stores, showing the items other users have uploaded.](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c16383af-acbf-4557-8b65-ced4bf30f478)

###Creative promotions
Stickers are versatile promotional tools. You can use them as freebies in your orders to add value to your existing products, include them as branded merchandise for events, or create limited-edition sticker runs to generate urgency. 

Many brands have successfully used stickers as a fun, shareable way to promote their business. Consider running a sticker campaign with your audience or using them in guerrilla marketing tactics, such as leaving stickers in public places for people to find.

###Email newsletters & communities
If you already have a newsletter or belong to an online community of designers or fans, stickers can be a great exclusive product to offer. Give your loyal audience early access to new sticker designs and create some hype around it. 

By tapping into these modern marketing strategies, you can reach your audience in engaging ways and turn your sticker designs into a thriving product line. Whether through social media, marketplaces, or direct sales, getting your stickers in front of people who will love them is just as crucial as designing them.

![A clear sticker of a vector illustration of a crocodile holding a sun umbrella applied to a glass of lemonade.](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d1460929-1ace-4997-9876-89b54e1ecde2)

##Conclusion
Designing [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers) requires more than just an idea. It takes careful consideration of your idea, design choices, file preparation, and reaching your audience. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating eye-catching stickers that resonate with whoever the stickers are meant for and make your sticker journey a huge success.

Whether you're designing stickers for personal or business projects, keep experimenting and refining your process. And if you’re looking for where to print the best stickers possible, we produce them at the highest quality, with free online proofs and free shipping. Happy designing! 

<ButtonCta text="Order custom stickers" href="https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers" />



We cover how to choose a sticker printer and other important questions about sticker production in part 2 of our guide to making custom stickers.

How to design stickers: Making custom stickers, part 1

Learn design fundamentals and how they apply to sticker design in part 1 of Sticker Mule's guide to making custom stickers.

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