Top 35+ free & paid AI tools you should be using in 2023

People have been talking about artificial intelligence for a while now. A pet sci-fi theme, it's spurred plenty of outlandish theories and hand-wringing about dystopian futures. But it was only over the past few months that the AI phenomenon seemed to really register on the global consciousness, driven primarily by the release of ChatGPT — a powerful chatbot that took the world by storm and reached a whopping [1 billion users in just under two months](https://www.demandsage.com/chatgpt-statistics/).

![best free ai tools in 2023](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d6e2ffc4-cf2c-4368-8a45-d0a51a13450f)

While it's anyone's guess what the future of AI holds in store for our economies, for scientific development, and even for our society's way of life, one thing's for sure — it's here to stay, and we better get used to its intrusive (but helpful) presence in our lives.

And what better way to embrace this brave new world than by taking advantage of the many free and paid AI tools already available out there? Without further ado, let's look at some of the best AI tools you should be using in 2023.

1). [ChatGPT](https://chat.openai.com/)

![best free ai tools 2023 chat gpt](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a72c8286-deee-41db-a094-8c22c2c439a6)

ChatGPT builds on the power of machine learning algorithms and a galaxy-vast database to answer pretty much anything you ask. It'll write you stories and poems, program, provide simple answers to complex topics, and help you with any number of planning tasks — besides just being a lot of fun to play around with.

2). [10Web](https://10web.io/)

![free ai tool to build website 10web](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9503c607-bfbb-4e9d-a1bc-acd4d899b11a)

If you're building your own site, 10Web is the número uno AI assistant for you. The app allows you to create web pages with no knowledge of coding using a simple drag-n-drop interface that makes it easy for anyone to make their own website.

3). [Midjourney](https://www.midjourney.com/app/) 

![free ai tool to create photos and images midjourney](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9416f88d-6329-4168-a6c4-bf33b893b98d)

Text-to-image is another aspect of so-called "generative AI" that's been making huge strides recently, as shown by Midjourney — an app with over 14 million users that can transform any text prompt into a unique, AI-generated output. 

Midjourney has recently [made headlines](https://www.reuters.com/technology/eu-lawmakers-committee-reaches-deal-artificial-intelligence-act-2023-04-27/) as a target of new proposed European legislation to regulate generative AI, given claims that its databases infringe artists' and photographers' copyrights.

4). [Upscale by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale)

[![free ai tool to upscale images online without losing quality](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7c33d40b-0bae-4c17-85f6-dc04489c867a)](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale "upscale images for free without losing quality")

Got the perfect image, but it's too low-resolution for printing? Fear not: Upscale by Sticker Mule taps into AI algorithms to provide missing pixels and render a high-quality version of your photographs and art.

5). [Magic Design by Canva](https://www.canva.com/magic-design/)

![free ai visualization tools](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9221c565-578f-4995-9623-15c6c5fbc12b)

Magic Design helps you turn into your own designer. Provide an image as a prompt and the AI software will bring up custom designs according to the context you need. With no coding or design skills needed, you'll soon be creating your own designs from scratch in a matter of minutes!

6). [Fireflies AI](https://fireflies.ai/)

![free ai tool for getting an AI assistant](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0cac6430-f369-4c39-ac6a-87e538c69487)

Voice assistants are another technology benefiting hugely from the AI boom, as in the case of Fireflies — an AI assistant for meetings. The app will help you take notes, transcribe discussions, and summarize meetings, improving your workflows and efficiency in the professional arena.

7). [SheetAI](https://www.sheetai.app/)

![free ai tool for google sheets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/579edd39-265f-4155-a092-76a1492ba292)

Tired of wasting tons of time trying to figure out the right command or coding for an Excel sheet? Well, no need for that anymore, as SheetAI does all the programming work for you. All you need to do is provide simple text prompts, sit back, and let the AI brain do its thing.

8). [Tome](https://beta.tome.app/)

![free ai tool to create and write content](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/daf75d68-0029-430c-8b2d-ada76f2a6851)

Tome describes itself as a "story-telling" app — not the bedtime kind, though. With Tome, you can instantly generate compelling narratives in the form of presentations including audiovisual content — all from a few simple prompts. Tome is a great way to help promote your products or ideas in the workplace.

9). [CodeWhisperer](https://aws.amazon.com/codewhisperer/)

![ai code suggestions for writing code faster](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/33c08039-ab6b-4a63-97d2-a77326b3e38e)

CodeWhisperer helps you code more effectively by drawing from billions of coding lines to suggest anything from simple snippets to fully-built functions of code. CodeWhisperer can even pick up your unique coding style and generate code to match.

10). [Bardeen](https://www.bardeen.ai/)

![free ai tools for automating tasks](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/61df6cac-1a31-4af6-8a96-892a586f61b8)

Bardeen is a business cloud-based data management and workflow tool. With Bardeen, you can automate mundane, repetitive tasks, including report generation, sending reminders, data entry, and a whole lot more.

11). [Tweethunter](https://tweethunter.io/)

![twitter audience and adds ai tool](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/74b7453f-15bb-4f5c-a2cf-93a0eb9aa72a)

Tweethunter helps Twitter users grow their audience and monetize their Twitter accounts, tapping into artificial intelligence to provide key insights for anything from best times to post and hot topics, to interesting opportunities. 

12). [Taplio](https://taplio.com/)

![free ai tool for linkedlin](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/fc68b1ff-0693-4f16-8013-c0e08432de0c)

Need an assistant to manage your LinkedIn account? That is the role of Taplio. Making use of machine learning algorithms, the app will provide you with ideas for hot posts, help schedule new content, and expand your professional network as a whole.

13). [VidIQ](https://vidiq.com/generate/)

![create content for youtube with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0cd023b1-05d8-4b66-9316-4458f7e02a08)

VidIQ is an extension for YouTubers— it provides tutorials, analytics, and insights on content creation and channel growth, as well as helps content creators find new keywords and trending topics for future posts.

14). [InboxPro](https://inboxpro.io/)

![free ai tool for gmail automation](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b7380078-bd53-41d6-99cb-83807b3930e6)

InboxPro is a suite of tools for email, calendar, and productivity management. With it, you'll answer emails faster, thanks to preset templates and AI predictive text, as well as save time with a myriad of daily business tasks such as scheduling events, sending RVSPs, or sending out reminders.

15). [HeadshotPro](https://www.headshotpro.com/)

![create professional photo headshots with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c55bd52a-6fbe-4ddf-bab1-b8acbbef86a0)

Is there no profile-worthy pic available? Upload any picture of yourself to HeadshotPro and get hundreds of professional corporate headshots generated in a matter of seconds!

16). [AgentGPT](https://agentgpt.reworkd.ai/)

![create AI bot to automate tasks](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ac8b0719-c897-4439-bf42-4c8059865e2f)

Create an AI agent and send it on a mission — any mission! From planning all the steps in a trip to scouring the web for information on a specific topic, AgentGPT will deliver powerful results for pretty much anything you ask it to do.

17). [Alicent](https://alicent.ai/)

![best chrome extension for chatgpt](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/78b0dc3e-409f-4555-8e84-cfa43f00cff7)

Alicent is a ChatGPT web extension through which you can benefit from the chatbot's assistance at any time and anywhere, with just a few clicks and prompts. Great for content creators, marketers, bloggers, and other professionals.

18). [ChatDOC](https://chatdoc.com/)

![summarize and extract content from documents with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/898eb877-5691-4024-a820-ce3385f202a6)

Another app based on ChatGPT, ChatDOC helps you extract content from any text file or document, as well as locate specific keywords and quickly summarize contents.

19). [Cassette AI](https://cassetteai.com/)

![ai generated music for free](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/db284cb4-83ce-446b-8663-0b286bc49abc)

Cassette enables musicians, composers, and music lovers all over the world to create music through prompts — anything from a synthy 80s-inspired beat to a violin playlist for focus and inspiration. 

20). [Lindy.ai](https://www.lindy.ai/)

![ai bot for google excel and google sheets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/170ba3f9-ff28-424d-a1e0-b8b29bd26730)

Lindy.ai is another AI tool for productivity and workflows, helping you automate all your day-to-day tasks from scheduling appointments and meetings to sending emails, taking notes, memos, and a lot more.

21). [Intellimail](https://www.intellimail.xyz/)

![ai tool for email](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/33aac2fc-01aa-493a-87da-51db389b1e9b)

Intellimail is a Chrome extension that works on Gmail to draft entire emails based on single-phrase prompts, saving users time and making for swifter, more effective, and clear professional communication.

22). [Kickresume](https://www.kickresume.com/en/ai-resume-writer/)

![free ai tool for resume building](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9392c8dd-f389-4271-8906-c76917fb336c)

AI lets you do many things, including drafting your resume. Powered by Open AI's GPT-4 NLP model, Kickresume will create a free resume for you with just a few prompts. And it looks good, too!

23). [Grammarly](https://www.grammarly.com/)

![ai tool for grammar correction](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7f78fdf7-e5b8-40c8-8c93-ab3d219d5a4c)

Grammarly is an extension trained on billions of words to predict and correct text as you type. Say goodbye to grammar and spelling mistakes with this handy tool. 

24). [Trace by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover with ai")

[![free ai background remover](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/32ae2360-a927-4262-b9ce-10605e34980c)](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover")

Trace is another app in the Sticker Mule stack of services. Use it to remove the background of any photo — whether it's your pet or your partner! — and create a ready-to-print photo for kickass stickers, magnets, or other custom items.

25). [Otter.ai](https://otter.ai/)

![free ai tool for note taking](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8f339dfe-f70f-40d1-bf88-ee66830314d6)

Otter is another great tool for meetings. Its functions include transforming text into notes, automatically capturing presentation slides, and generating handy meeting summaries.

26). [Quillbot](https://quillbot.com/)

![free ai paraphrasing tool](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/2d781d34-6649-4ce1-96d2-1377e2543670)

Lacking creativity, style, or vocabulary? Quillbot gives you a shortcut to better results by rephrasing any text you input. The app works as both a Chrome and Word extension and works with a range of language styles, including "creative", "professional", and "simple" tones.

27). [Replika](https://replika.com/)

![free AI support companion](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7bfc604f-c9b1-4bdd-a29c-4412d950e213)

Ever seen Her? Well, Replika brings something of that concept to life with its AI companion that will follow you anywhere, chat with you, be a (virtual) shoulder to cry on, and even coach you on a variety of subjects.

Or, you know, you just get out there and make some friends.

28). [DeepL Translator](https://www.deepl.com/en/translator)

![free ai translation service](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ef8bb413-ffa5-4776-9e2b-35cd959a6f16)

Deploying potent neural network machine learning and tapping into all of the internet for input and context, DeepL has been the golden standard for machine translation for nearly a decade and is available for free for several language sets, including English to French, Russian, and Chinese.

29). [Aiva](https://www.aiva.ai/)

![create music and songs with ai for free](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/df4881fe-800f-405f-860b-4887e3471f73)

Aiva is another music maker. Tune into the app and use style (70s rock) and tone (emotional) prompts to generate custom-made, unique machine-learning music.

30). [Hemingway Editor](https://hemingwayapp.com/)

![ai writing and content correction and suggestion](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c0f71904-63b3-4510-8217-52eabb31e2c6)

Although it's not certain the legendary Papa would approve, Hemingway Editor does the bulk of the work in helping you create a more vigorous, concise writing style. The AI editor will help you detect words to trim off, clumsy paragraphs to clean up, and windy sentences to straighten out. It can also give you writing tips and grade your work on a "Readability" scale.

31). [Dall-E2](https://openai.com/product/dall-e-2)

![art and image AI generation](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/467d7973-0a09-4a27-8d49-65b5ae7e1a65)

Another member of the OpenAI family, Dall-E2 creates realistic-looking images (by AI standards, that is) from simple natural language prompts. 

32). [LUMEN5](https://lumen5.com/)

![create video content at scale with AI](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/02a5f651-6f63-4f32-9e25-e5ebe4e5d396)

Lumen5 makes it easy for anyone to create compelling video content on an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. With machine learning algorithms, it can also transform text into videos and prepare clips out of Zoom recordings, among many other tricks.

33). [Riffusion](https://www.riffusion.com/)

![generate music for free with ai tools](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3beeb376-8980-4af0-9899-d7f411ca3a54)

Riffusion is a neural network with an innovative concept: it generates music using images of sound, instead of audio. Essentially, it visualizes, then composes music. Although the app is still in its infancy, the approach carries a lot of promise for composers and soundtrack creators out there.

34). [Point-E](https://openai.com/research/point-e)

![create 3D point clouds with AI](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/49645fff-3455-4103-b610-cd98de9ac66a)

Visualize complex ideas and projects by transforming prompts into 3D point clouds — that is the simple, but rather incredible offering of Point-E. Point-E is yet another member of the GPT-4 family.

35). [LALAL.AI](https://www.lalal.ai/)

![extract vocals from music with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7cbbef03-f089-412e-afbe-754044ddbc3c)

LALAL helps you extract bits of music, detaching specific vocals or instruments from the rest and combining them with other sounds to create new music from old.

36). [Deep Nostalgia](https://www.myheritage.com/deep-nostalgia)

![animate old family photos with AI](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/256fdd23-4b16-45a8-9303-e02b85f5e1bc)

A fascinating, if slightly creepy app, Deep Nostalgia makes use of machine learning algorithms to bring life to old pictures of relatives or historical figures. Don't blame us for the nightmares.

37). [Magic Eraser](https://magicstudio.com/magiceraser)

![remove objects in photos with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/84557edc-de4c-45cd-987d-c7453dffb854)

Magic Eraser's AI brain is pleased to assist you with one of the biggest hurdles of image editing — removing unwanted objects. Correct your pictures, reimagine your living spaces, and perhaps even remove a few tourists from that memorable vacation picture of last year!

38). [Fontjoy](https://fontjoy.com/)

![create design font pairs with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/90dccc23-fa27-4a2c-a8a6-9b4289a587b0)

Font pairing may sound like a far-fetched concept, but it is actually a core element of graphic design and typographic style. With Fontjoy, you can generate fonts that pair well with one another, creating matchups, contrasts, and other effects for greater visual impact and a cleaner and more agreeable reading experience.

39). [Gamma](https://gamma.app/)

![free ai content writing tool ](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/67295ea4-ec9b-4722-a937-f531f1a94940)

Slide decks? Who needs them! Gamma is a fast and downright effective way to share and present your work in presentations, memos, briefs, and docs. Gamma's AI generator gives life to your ideas and helps you drive your message across any professional medium.

### To cap off

From creating images for laughs to serious professional uses, AI tools are everywhere. Use them to improve workflows, aid your creativity, or just have some good old fun!

<ButtonCta text="Upscale images for free with AI today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/upscale" />
<ButtonCta text="Remove backgrounds from photos for free!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/trace" />



Free AI tools are everywhere these days, but here are 35+ free and paid AI apps that are actually super useful and could transform the way you do day-to-day activities!

Make images bigger without losing quality with Upscale

[Upscale](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale) is a free [tool](https://www.stickermule.com/tools) that makes images bigger without losing quality, instantly.

<YouTubeVideo videoId="MnlxadIeVKQ?rel=0" />

Just upload your image and within a few seconds, you’ll be able to download your upgraded larger image. Or you can use your new artwork to order custom stickers and more with a single click.

<ButtonCta text="Try Upscale for free" href="https://www.stickermule.com/upscale" />




### Why we made Upscale

Some images are small. They're not bad, they're just small. You can save an image to a bigger size, but this just makes each pixel bigger – and you end up with a pixelated, distorted image.

It’s even more problematic if you try to print a low-resolution image ([we recommend artwork be at least 300 ppi](https://www.stickermule.com/support/artwork-ppi)).

Luckily, Upscale makes it easy for anyone to improve the size and resolution of their artwork. Using AI, Upscale creates brand new pixels, allowing your image to be 2x the size with 4x the pixels of the original image.

![make image bigger](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/fdc1721c2cf40d5acff214da986d3a34f8892909)

![make any image bigger without losing quality](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/dfe0e8d36794c08d5193f3772fafbacbe5f15942)

![free tool to make image bigger](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e1de5023b5e1a0c62adc6ac4fd47134e8f4fdf1b)

<ButtonCta text="Try Upscale for free" href="https://www.stickermule.com/upscale" />


Want to make an image bigger? Upscale is a free online tool that allows you to make any image bigger without losing quality for free!

The evolution of t-shirts: A decade-by-decade style trend journey

What makes a t-shirt a t-shirt? Well, easy: its T-shaped format! Besides literally being a "tee", t-shirts are also associated with a certain kind of material (cotton) and with their very own atmosphere (informality). Tees are simple to make, comfortable to wear, and worn just about everywhere.

![the history of t-shirts decade by decade](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b5f3bc36-354d-4990-af9c-3feb717efb32)

In fact, nowadays, t-shirts are perhaps the most common element of clothing all over the world. But it wasn't always like that — in fact, the humble tee has only been with us for a little over a century. 

From its origin as a 19th-century working man's garment to the modern trends of the 21st century, the t-shirt has come a long way in a short time. Let's take a look at how it developed over the years.

### The birth of t-shirts

![1800s t-shirt origin story from the union suit](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8a340f78-b45d-4963-8998-61a9196abfbb)

Believe it or not, t-shirts come from a very ridiculous-looking (by our modern standards) piece of clothing called the union suit. We highly recommend [googling union suit](https://www.google.com/search?q=union+suit) sometime, there are definitely a few chuckles to be had.

Well, at some point in the late 19th century, workers in mines and docks seemed to have fallen into the habit of cutting short the top piece of their union suit. Because seriously, those things were hot to work in. And there you have it — the first version of the t-shirt was born.

### The early 1900s and armywear 

![t-shirt history from the military](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ce653520-ee27-41a9-9239-fb28d1c1d2af)

Once the effectiveness of lighter clothing in the mines was realized, it didn't take long for the military to discover them. First issued by the US Navy, they were soon a staple undergarment in all branches of the military. They made for a comfortable piece to wear under a soldier's uniform and were great for fieldwork in hot climates.


Fast forward a few more years and we have World War I spreading the tee's popularity even further. No longer an undergarment only, t-shirts now started seeing ample use in all kinds of manual labor, including agriculture. They also became a popular garment for boys — cheap, good for running around, and easier to clean than regular shirts.

In 1920, "t-shirt" became an accepted word in the English language and had the honor to make it into [Merriam-Webster's Dictionary](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/T-shirt "t-shirt definition"). Now we're talkin'!


### 1930s-1950s: T-shirts enter mainstream fashion

Ranch workers in the Great Depression wore the t-shirt often, and so did Navy men during World Word II and afterward, and for pretty much the same reasons mentioned above — they were cheap, comfy, good for physical work, and cool.

![50s t-shirt history](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ed15dfd3-7464-466f-a1b4-6a6c151d54fe)  

However, it wasn't until the early '50s that the t-shirt became cool in the other sense of the word. And for that, as you may have guessed, we have Hollywood to thank for. After Marlon Brando wore it in A Streetcar Named Desire, the t-shirt finally had its big moment. Now it could never not be cool again. Now it was a cool, manly, edgy, rebellious type of garment — something for the James Dean and Marlon Brando would-bes to eagerly copy.


The t-shirt had finally come of age. No longer perceived as an undergarment, it was its own thing and could be proudly worn everywhere.
  

### 1960s-1980s: T-shirts as a form of expression

![t-shirt history during 70s and protests](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a46cbd6d-cc86-4f82-a831-6c8d474c7eb7)

The 1960s brought two things that further changed and popularized the t-shirt: advancements in screen printing and, of course, a big societal shift in favor of freedom and personal expression.

The first change made it possible to print t-shirts with all kinds of text and images printed on them. The second made people want to give wings to their creativity and spread slogans  — and for that, the t-shirt was a favored means of expression. 

Besides being a vehicle for political-cultural expression, it didn't take long for tees to be channeled for advertising, as major companies like Coca-Cola and Disney started printing out t-shirts with their logos and company slogans.
  

### 1990s-2000s: T-shirts go global

![t-shirt historys during the 90s and sports wear](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/62ede000-c253-4383-aa59-13519d6e3248)

T-shirts had been a staple of hip-hop and rap culture for some time, but the 1990s and the spread of streetwear made them go truly global for the first time — the relaxed, casual style of the t-shirt and sneakers was simply too easy to fall in love with. 

Add to that the growing popularity of sportswear, driven by brands such as Nike and American sports franchises, and the tee further consolidates its worldwide appeal.

### 2010s-Present: The evolution continues

![2010s t-shirt history of style trends](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/25d82d1c-90ec-4b79-a2a9-13e8f902e99c)

For the past couple of decades, people continued to find new and creative ways to wear their tees. Our age is one of easy customization, and [custom printed t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts) now show our love for popular movies and series, favorite bands, or favorite designer brands. Internet meme culture, too, is very present and brings an extra touch of humor to tees everywhere.

T-shirts have also been reinvented in different materials — the so-called performance t-shirts, popular in various athletic endeavors, have turned into their own athleisure fashion trends. The good old, simple t-shirt is still going places.

### Conclusion

From a second-rate working undergarment to possibly the most popular item of pop culture, the t-shirt has no doubt come a long way. And it's likely got even more future than past — if recent trends are anything to go by, the t-shirt is likely to be a key theme of exploration for future fashion and customization trends. What can we say? We're all for it!

It's anyone's guess where the t-shirt goes next, but one thing is for sure: it's not leaving our culture anytime soon.

<ButtonCta text="Start making your own t-shirts today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts" />

T-shirts have been around since the 1800s, learn the fascinating history of this everyday garment in this new blog series on style trends.

How to start a candle business at home: Step-by-step guide

Who could have predicted that candles, of all things, would be increasing in popularity in 2023? 

![starting a candle business online with no money](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3ef64d91-8c77-45f8-bccc-68933f32d85a)

Our age is one of plentiful lighting, as [an image of Earth's light pollution map](https://www.cleardarksky.com/maps/lp/large_light_pollution_map.html) will show you. But not even the uber-cheap and ubiquitous LED lamps that illuminate our interiors managed to snuff out the humble candle from our homes.

No longer relevant for lighting, this [5000-year-old invention](https://candles.org/history/) found a new purpose in decoration and lifestyle. Modern home décor tendencies and well-being practices such as aromatherapy have fueled the demand for artisanal and scented candles — a tendency compounded by the [pandemic-inspired rise of wellness trends among millennials](https://www.vogue.in/beauty/content/heres-how-candles-lead-the-wellness-industry-during-the-pandemic). 

With the current $12.88 billion global candle market burning bright and [an expected growth rate of 5.7% from 2023 to 2030](https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/candles-market), the popularity of candles is as far as ever from dying out and the moment is ripe for aspiring chandlers everywhere. 

Want to know how to start a candle business at home? Then light yourself a candle and read on as we provide an overview of the main steps for starting a candle business.

## __1) Choose your niche__

![a woman wondering which candle to choose](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/16ae8c1d-a082-4ea9-a64a-f8e700670a90)

Before you get started with your candle business, determine what will your niche be. It's best to start small and do one thing well, keeping the alternative to expand to other candle types later on.

### Main types of candles

As candle aficionados know, candles come in diverse shapes, sizes, aromas, and materials. Let's go over four common types.

#### Scented candles

Scented candles are a great way to relieve stress and create a relaxing environment. Alongside essential oils, they make up the core of aromatherapy and have also grown in popularity as we spend more time at home and are more concerned with how our dwelling spaces smell. 

Research has even [shown the right smells can increase our productivity](https://www.bbc.com/news/business-61708789). All of this makes aromatic candles a great candle-making niche.

#### Decorative candles

All candles are extremely versatile when it comes to decoration, but you can choose to make candles targeting a special kind of décor or style. Decorative candles such as the ones used in hygge trends tend to be odorless, as they're meant to be just a small part of your home environment.

If you choose to work with decorative candles, you'll find it a perfect opportunity to play with shapes and colors. You can even choose to make candles for special seasonal events, such as orange pumpkin-shaped candles for Halloween or green pine-shaped ones for Christmas.

#### Beeswax candles

Beeswax candles make up a special — and expensive — niche in the world of chandlers. The high melting point of beeswax means these candles will burn longer than regular paraffin ones, but that is far from their only advantage. Beeswax candles release less soot and emit more light, while not having a strong scent, which makes them perfect for a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

Beeswax is also said to have a positive effect on the quality of the air in your home — as the candle burns, it releases negative ions which neutralize various air pollutants. 

The thing to have in mind here is that beeswax is a more expensive material, which may require more careful sourcing and planning.

#### Soy candles

Soy candles are another in the category of so-called "happy wax" — non-pollutant wax made from natural materials. Because they don't burn petroleum-based paraffin, their flame is cleaner, with a better impact on both your health and the environment. Plus they're sourced from soybeans, which makes them better for the environment.

Similar to beeswax, soy candles also burn longer than paraffin ones. Add that to the fact they're "green" and you have yourself a nice niche for environmentally-conscious customers.

----

## 2) Create a Unique Selling Proposition

A Unique Selling Proposition (or UPS, for short) is essentially telling your clients why your product is worth their attention and money — why they should buy from you, and not the competition.

A USP is essential for any business, and for a good reason: Having a good product means nothing if you can't convince your customer to acquire it.

To formulate a compelling USP:

- **Identify your target market.** Understand what demographic is likely to buy your product. In the case of beeswax candles, that could be middle-class, environmentally-conscious female millennials.
- **Determine what makes your product unique.** This will be the focal point in your marketing to that audience. Going back to beeswax, it is unique because it is eco-friendly, lasts longer, and is a traditional, timeless product.
- **Write a USP that highlights these benefits** in a clear and concise way. 
- **Promote!** Your USP can be the focal point of your company's "About" page, your slogan, and even your logo.

----

## 3) Develop your product line

![materials for candle business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/98257d9d-42a9-4e34-bf9b-3ec39c62cfdc)

A company is only as good as the product it sells. Once you have arrived at your unique selling point, it's time to develop your product line so it matches and exceeds your customers' expectations.

Here, you'll want to experiment with the many scents, colors, and candle styles available, finding high-quality materials for each aspect of your candle line. The combinations here are pretty much infinite, and with enough planning and testing, you'll soon be on your way to crafting your very own brand of candles.

Consider carefully each element of your candles.

### Waxes

We already saw how important it is to choose the proper wax for your candle niche. Among the types of candle waxes to consider, we've got:

- **Paraffin wax:** Also known as mineral wax, it is cheaper, more easily available, and better for strong fragrances. However, it burns faster, releases soot, and is sourced from non-renewable petroleum.
- **Soy wax:** A perfect environmental-friendly alternative to paraffin wax, albeit less conducive to smells. Burns very well, with little soot.
- **Paraffin-soy blend:** Blends are often used to bring together the benefits of two materials, as in the case of slow-burning aromatic parasoy blend candles.
- **Beeswax:** The best-burning type of candle material, it is also one of the most expensive.
- **Coconut wax:** Another expensive, but eco-friendly alternative that lends itself well to different blends.

### Wicks

Wicks can be chosen based on the type of wax or container being used, as well as simply with an eye to aesthetics. The main types of wicks are as follows.

- **Flat:** The most common type in taper and pillar candles, flat wicks are made up of two or three fiber strands knitted together. They curl into the flame for an effortless self-trimming effect. 
- **Square:** Braided square wicks are often used with beeswax, as they clog less than other types of wicks.
- **Cored:** Cored wicks are braided around a central piece, usually made of cotton, zinc, or paper, which helps keep them erect. They're popular in jar candles and votives.
- **Wooden:** Made from wood or combinations of wood fiber and cotton, these wicks have gained in popularity due to their aesthetic effect and the gentle crackling sound they produce.

### Fragrances

A powerful, but woefully underused sense, [smell is processed differently from any other sense](https://www.discovery.com/science/Why-Smells-Trigger-Such-Vivid-Memories) — which is just one of the reasons for the popularity of aromatic candles. Used well, the right scent will help shape unforgettable moments; your scented candles can spark vivid emotions and become connected with precious memories. 

Candle fragrances are also a brilliant way to set a mood of relaxation or create an atmosphere for concentration, among many other uses — all of which you should have in mind as you go about choosing, mixing, and inventing your own fragrances. 

Don't forget to name your fragrances in original and memorable ways. That can be a nice way to strengthen brand associations, set your product line apart, and explore your creativity.

### Containers

The containers you use for your candles should also hinge on your target market and the general style you're going for. Mason or jelly jars have a more rustic appeal, whereas tumbler jars can be directed at a public with more refined tastes. Similarly, the colors you employ should also be in touch with your general branding, candle type, and market.

----

## 4) Branding and packaging

![design logo and packaging for candle business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4a4b17b7-b261-4de4-81b8-c0a468127f36)

Branding is a key aspect of your home candle business — it can be the decisive element that makes customers pick your shop among a multitude of others and keeps them coming back.

While branding doesn't have to take a lot of your time and effort, it does need to be well planned. You want to convey a consistent image and message that will be firmly lodged into buyers' minds, and this means attention to a few key elements.

### Designing your logo

Your logo is your brand's calling card. Make it simple or fancy, but make it memorable and in tune with your brand's overall look and feel. If you need help designing your logo, you can check out some of the [many templates available in our free Studio design tool](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/search?group=all&q=logo).

### Making good use of candle labels

[Candle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/candle-labels) can be a key branding item that is well worth your time and attention. Besides sharing your logo and brand name with the world, they also help create the general feel you're going for — rustic, refined, modern, or classic.

### Choosing the right packaging

Packaging is another often overlooked, but major factor in your overall branding effort. Factors to keep in mind here include:

- **Packaging material:** Boxes, paper bags, and mailers are just some of the most common options.
- **Customization:** [How do you make your packaging stand out?](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/5-inexpensive-ways-to-make-your-packages-stand-out) Among other ideas, custom tags and personalized packaging tape can go a long way toward creating a unique brand look.
- **Pricing:** An important factor for home businesses. But no worries, there are plenty of ways to use unique packaging material and customization while keeping a tidy budget!

----

## 5) Set up your online presence

![setting up an online presence](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/698bbaa7-1dba-4ff9-a252-a9385a426693)

Now that you have your niche, product line, and branding elements figured out, it's time to make sure customers know where to find you. For that, you can create your own website or choose to go with an e-commerce platform. 

### Creating a website

Having your website makes you independent of other platforms and is a sign of professionality, but it also takes a bit more effort. You'll need to register (and pay for) your own domain and choose a web design for your site — something you can build by yourself, buying a [pre-designed theme](https://themeforest.net/category/ecommerce), or simply pay a freelancer on outsourcing platforms such as Upwork to do it for you. 

In order to sell on your own website, you may need to integrate it with a plugin for e-commerce websites. Popular options include:

- **Woocommerce:** An open-source plugin for Wordpress-based websites, Woocommerce is completely free to use and can be a great way to manage your own website.
- **[Bigcommerce](https://www.bigcommerce.com/ "Bigcommerce"):** Bigcommerce is an all-in-one e-commerce platform with a big stack of customizable themes, product management, order processing, payment gateway integrations, and marketing tools for online stores. Pricing plans start at around $40/month.
- **Magento:** Also open-source, Magento provides customizable themes, product management, order processing, customer service, and marketing tools for e-commerce websites. It is great for technical people that want to be able to do everything but can be cumbersome for others to use. Pricing varies according to the services you use.

### Using an e-commerce platform

An e-commerce platform can help establish an early presence in the market while sparing you the trouble of creating a website. Selling through a platform [such as Etsy](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-sell-on-etsy-a-guide-for-designers) can also help you shape a reputation through user reviews, as well as smoothing out the ordering process — all of which is great news in case you're starting your company solo and don't have that much time to spare.

On the other hand, platforms will usually shave a fixed fee or percentage fee off your sales earnings, so keep that in mind. In the case of Etsy, that's 6.5% of each transaction.

### Setting up social media profiles

Social media is [a growing force in the e-commerce landscape](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1251145/social-commerce-sales-worldwide/), and a valuable tool for your home candle business. Make sure to set up pages across all major social media in your country, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

Regularly posting on social media will help grow your following, besides showcasing your products, and providing a channel to answer customers' queries and collect feedback.

### SEO and content marketing strategies

Once you've got your website up and running and have established a presence on social media, remember to keep the content coming — that's how you stay relevant and in front of customers.

For search engine optimization (SEO), it can be a good idea to incorporate a blog into your website. You can post about new product releases, interesting facts or how-tos, or just about anything connected to the world of candles. And make sure to post regularly — twice a month or so, at least.

Another great way to stay in touch with your customers is by setting up a newsletter where you share releases and promos with your subscribers. Just take care not to overdo the frequency of your emails, though — two or so a week, tops.

----

## 6) Pricing and shipping management

![determining packaging and pricing for a candle business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c7ece126-c6dc-43e3-8f9f-de9322d2e4ab)

Last but not least, let's take a look at two key aspects of your candle business: pricing and shipping.

### Pricing

Pricing your products can be quite tricky at first, but you'll soon find your way around. A few key elements to consider:

- **Your total cost in making the candles.** This includes your average spend per type of candle (including packaging and shipping) + time investment. You should also have an idea of how much your time is worth — what is the minimum that this job should pay hourly, as well as your target hourly earnings.
- **Your target market.** Here we go back to your chosen niche, as the purchasing power of your target customers also plays into your pricing strategies.
- **Your perceived value.** This is how much people think your products are worth in comparison to other, similar products. Although it'll be hard to evaluate when you're starting out, you'll eventually be able to factor perceived value into your pricing as you build your customer base and find out where you stand before the competition.
- **The competition.** All of the calculations above have to be grounded in reality. That means understanding how much the competition is pricing their products, and adapting your price accordingly.

There are plenty of other pricing aspects to keep in mind, including bulk sale pricing, whether or not to offer free shipping, loyalty discounts, promo codes, and a lot more. But you don't need to tackle it all at once; just start with the essentials and enrich your pricing system as your business grows.

### Shipping and order management

The importance of shipping cannot be disregarded. On the one hand, the cost and speed at which you ship directly affect your customers' willingness to buy with you. On the other, you need to factor in how much you spend managing order shipment — in both money and time.

With that in mind, make sure you plan your shipping strategy well. One idea can be to manage your shipments through a fulfillment or shipping platform, such as Shipstation or our own free tool: [Ship, by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/ship). A management platform will help you streamline your shipping, which can be particularly helpful when dealing with increased seasonal demand (such as the crazy peak time in November-December).

Finally, remember that shipping is a unique chance to impress your customer. You can find out ways to [captivate your buyers with a memorable shipping experience](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-make-memorable-shipping-experience "memorable shipping experiences") in a recent blog post of ours.

----

## Quick recap

| Step | Things to do                     |
|------|----------------------------------|
| 1    | Choose your niche                |
| 2    | Create a unique selling proposition |
| 3    | Develop your product line        |
| 4    | Branding and packaging           |
| 5    | Set up your online presence      |
| 6    | Pricing and shipping management  |

----

Starting your own candle business from home may seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be that way. Just take things one step at a time. Remember to consider your niche, plan your product line and branding, establish your online footprint, and have a well thought-out plan for shipping and pricing.

Go after your entrepreneurial dreams and you find that not only is it a feasible way to start making money from what for many is just a hobby, but your candle business just might turn out to be the [moonlighting effort](https://www.artofmanliness.com/career-wealth/career/how-to-moonlight-your-way-to-your-dreams-case-studies-from-famous-men/) that transforms passion into a livelihood.


<ButtonCta text="Create your own candle labels today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/candle-labels" />


A detailed guide on how to start a candle business. Even if you have little to no money, this guide will help you on your journey to create a great new candle business!

Discover 10 popular types of stickers for every occasion

[Stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "stickers") have been around for just under a century, but they already feel timeless. From the price tag on your banana to the cheesy quote you inflict on the driver behind you, stickers are simply everywhere. 

![different types of custom stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4c71ec42-812b-44c0-bc0e-5cb35d276247)

Coming in all shapes, sizes, materials, and colors, the ubiquitous sticker plays very diverse roles. There are the prized collectible superhero stickers of your childhood, the faded paper sticker with a barcode, soon to be torn off and discarded, the colorful school wall graphic, and the dull letter stickers on your office door. And so many more.

These stickers each have their point and purpose. Below, we'll take a look at some of the main sticker types, what they're made of, and what they're made for. Join us in this brief exploration of the world of stickers.

### 1. Vinyl stickers

![custom vinyl stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/31ca5210-5aba-49bb-b9f1-87da6b6c2a2b)

Also known as PVC, vinyl is the main material used for stickers meant to last. Sturdier than paper and other materials, vinyl stickers can take a lot of abuse and keep going — they'll literally stick around.

Common uses for [vinyl stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/vinyl-stickers "custom vinyl stickers") include:

- Outdoor applications, such as bike stickers, hard hat stickers, surfboard stickers, etc.
- Customizing water flasks, laptops, and other personal belongings
- Labeling glass jars, bottles, and similar objects

### Advantages and disadvantages of vinyl stickers

Vinyl stickers are the norm — if you're looking at a sticker, chances are it's a vinyl one. That's because:

- They're waterproof and oil resistant
- They're weatherproof and can take years to fade even when exposed to sun and rain daily
- They're sturdy and don't scratch or tear easily
- They're supremely sticky and will last a long time
- They're sleek and quality-looking

That said, they're not fit for every use. Vinyl stickers:

- Can be more expensive than simple paper stickers
- Can leave residue behind once they're removed
- Are not eco-friendly, as they're not biodegradable or recyclable

### 2. Clear stickers

![custom clear stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/63621348-ce77-477d-8f09-db24e1bec1f8)

Let's talk about a sticker's look, not the material. Most [clear stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/clear-stickers) are made of — you guessed it — vinyl. More specifically, transparent vinyl. The point of clear stickers is to make only the sticker's design visible, and not the backing.

There are plenty of applications for clear stickers, but they're especially popular on transparent surfaces such as glass windows or glasses. They're also great for mugs, laptops, and phone cases — pretty much any use case where you want to make sure your design is visible against an object's surface.

### 3. Bumper stickers

![custom bumper stickers types](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/974bc5dc-448d-4eba-97e4-35f80663428a)

Besides being used to entertain or annoy other commuters, [bumper stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/bumper-stickers "custom bumper stickers") are a popular sticker type for more serious uses, such as supporting your candidates or sharing a political slogan.

Bumper stickers are also popular as a way to market your business or services, sharing brand names and company phone numbers. In fact, that was their original purpose back in 1946, when they were [first put into use](https://wtop.com/jiffy-lube-sponsored-content/2021/08/a-brief-history-of-bumper-stickers-decade-by-decade).

Rather more discreet than window decals, bumper stickers are nonetheless a great way to advertise what you're all about.

### 4. Holographic stickers

![custom holographic stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f8dc08b6-5352-4e14-b910-a5147fe424b2)

Holographic stickers have a nice rainbow effect finish that makes them a great choice for fun visuals and appealing designs. But they can also have an important role to play. Since holographic designs are harder to duplicate, these stickers are often used as credentials (think the car window type) or security seals.

You can check out the [Sticker Mule holographic stickers here](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers). If you're the creative type, you'll find they can be really a lot of fun.

### 5. Transfer stickers

![custom transfer stickers for cars](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6f27f054-92c9-4e76-8afe-da95d425acef)

Also known as vinyl cut stickers or vinyl lettering, [transfer stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/transfer-stickers) are stickers made of several pieces that you need to keep together while transferring to the desired surface.

A special transfer tape keeps the pieces together; after removing the sticker from the paper backing and sticking it to the surface, you'll then peel back this transfer tape, leaving only your intricate design.

Transfer stickers are great for complex designs, such as lettering, that need to be precisely applied on a surface. They're often used on shop windows and office doors. 

### 6. Die-cut stickers

![custom die cut types of stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1b8cb07d-b346-448c-a69b-15d4e4a4439b)

Unlike round or square stickers, [die-cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) are cut following the precise shape of your design. This makes them a great choice for stickers that need to blend in neatly with the object they're glued onto. 

Applications for die-cut stickers include: 

- Printing pet stickers that follow the contour of your pet's head
- Stickers for narrow surfaces (such as bicycle frame stickers)

### 7. Face stickers

![custom face stickers types](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/682eedf0-34ee-4cb8-bcd7-b3d57874d789)

[Custom face stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/face-stickers) are just what the name says. More importantly, they're a great way to make people smile. Whether it's a grumpy cat (or baby) or the smiling face of a loved one now immortalized in graphic form, face stickers can be a fun and entirely unique way to customize your belongings.

Face stickers are usually die-cut, and are a popular addition to glasses, flasks, laptops, and notebooks.

### 8. Kiss cut stickers

![custom kiss cut sticker printing](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0454789b-52ba-43b4-b2cd-3c133c957100)

[Kiss cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/kiss-cut-stickers) come in a special paper backing that both protects the sticker and doubles as an extra space to print on. This makes them especially popular with delicate designs, where the corners and borders of the sticker require additional protection.

Kiss-cut stickers are also popular as a way for shops and artists to include more information about their business in the discardable sticker backing.

### 9. Window clings

![custom types of window clings](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/07824e96-a21f-472a-a960-36422cd959d7)

Window clings, a.ka. [static clings](https://www.stickermule.com/products/static-clings "custom static clings") or electrostatic stickers, harness the power of electricity and atmospheric pressure to stick to the surface they're applied to. That's right — no adhesive is required to make these thin-vinyled bad boys stick! 

Easy to apply and remove without leaving any residue behind, window clings are the perfect solution for a variety of uses, such as:

- seasonal designs and decorations
- showcasing promotions or sales
- when you want to avoid sticky residue
- other temporary uses and applications

Although they're a great alternative to the traditional sticker, window clings have their limitations:

- they can only be applied to surfaces such as glass or some metals
- they don't do well in high humidity environments and outdoors
- they don't last quite as long as adhesive stickers

This means window clings are great for temporary applications where they won't deal with much wear and tear.

### 10. Wall and floor stickers

![custom types of wall and floor stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/592be51f-1009-4ea5-afaf-020236d0e41d)

Also known as wall or floor decals, these are large stickers made with a fabric-like vinyl and meant for a more permanent decorative use. They're popular in offices, schools, and public places, and are made to last.

Because they're very large, [wall and floor stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/floor-graphics) usually come with a special backing, adhesive tape strips, and even a squeegee to help squeeze out air bubbles from the design. 

Common uses for wall and floor stickers include:

- branding on banks, offices, and public spaces
- home decoration
- large informational graphics and designs

### Conclusion

The above are just some of the more popular types of stickers. For your car or your office, for personal uses or professional applications, to advertise, or to make friends laugh, these stickers got you covered. 

Just remember not all stickers are created equal. A window decal serves a very different purpose from a window cling; a kiss cut sticker is not the same as a transfer sticker. So make sure you do your research before you order your stickers — especially when bulk ordering. 

And speaking of bulk, did you know Sticker Mule has some of the best deals out there for bulk ordering custom stickers? Check out all the [types of custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "stickers") we currently offer and [subscribe to our deals](https://www.stickermule.com/deals "sticker deals") to save big!

<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom stickers today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers" />


Here are some of the most popular types of stickers right now in 2023. Find the perfect sticker type for any occasion!

How to convert PNG to SVG

Scalable vector graphics or SVGs are made from mathematical paths, allowing them to be scaled infinitely without losing clarity. This makes SVGs and other [vector formats](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/raster-vs-vector-images) superior to PNGs and other raster formats, which are limited by the number of pixels they contain.

To convert PNGs to SVGs, there are a few ways to get this accomplished. You can convert PNGs to SVGs manually through design programs or you can [use an online service like Redraw](https://www.stickermule.com/redraw "convert png to vector online") to create a real vector file from a non-vector image. But whatever you do, be weary of free online services that promise to do it for free in seconds. These services will just change the format of the file without drawing the vector paths that make vectors so valuable.

To help guide you on the journey to get the best possible vector file result, let's go over each method to converting png to svg in a bit more detail.

### Use a vector design app
You can recreate your image in vector format from scratch using an app like [Adobe Illustrator](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-design-stickers). Recreating artwork takes some design skill, especially for more complex artwork.

![illustrator ui for vectorizing a png image](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f8e4d8fb61be22f11b5bec2afe27cbdf8643a608)

Once you are done you can export your image as an SVG.

### Use an auto-vectorization tool
Illustrator has an [Image Trace tool](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-use-image-trace-in-adobe-illustrator), that converts any raster to vector with just a few clicks. The results from this tool (and others like it) vary widely depending on the complexity of your artwork.

![raster to vector](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7084286daa27ce03bbfdab7bfd1a6836fcedde98)

*Note: there are many tools that technically convert your artwork from PNG to SVG, but just change the file extension – not the artwork itself. You'll need to look elsewhere to obtain a true vector version of your artwork.*

### Use a vectorization service
[Redraw](https://www.stickermule.com/redraw) is a service that upgrades any image into a vector format for a flat rate of $14, regardless of the complexity.

<YouTubeVideo videoId="nr7tGu9yKh4?modestbranding=1&rel=0" />

Upload your PNG, checkout, and within hours you’ll receive an online proof showing your vector graphic will look. You can request changes to the proof for free until you’re happy (or cancel if you’re not happy).

Upon approval, you’ll be able to download the artwork in its new SVG format.

<ButtonCta text="Order a Redraw for $14" size="large" variant="secondary"  align="center" href="https://www.stickermule.com/redraw" />

Converting PNGs to SVGs doesn't need to be hard and complicated. Find out how to convert any PNG into a SVG with this guide!

Where to put stickers on your car? Here's a car decal guide!

Did you know that there’s a way to personalize your vehicle without spending an arm and a leg on a new paint job or foiling? You read that right, and it’s so easy, you can do it yourself (with a little help, of course). Motorcycle and car stickers are a fun, efficient, and stress-free trick to send a message through your automobile. The best part is that there are so many ways you can use it to show off your personality.

Are you ready to put a little pizzazz in your car?

## Think about the vehicle sticker you want

First off, this is not a tattoo where regrets aren’t optional. Still, make sure you’ve basically figured out what you want in your vehicle sticker before making any decisions. Do you want a subtle car sticker or an attention-grabbing motorcycle decal? Do you want it on the bumper or the window? Do you want a funny graphic or a fail-safe mantra? 

Go beyond the usual “bullet hole” or “spider web” design. [Custom vehicle stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/car-decals "custom car stickers") allow you the freedom to get pretty much whatever you want and the endless possibilities will surely ignite your creativity.

## Interesting uses for vehicle stickers

A custom vehicle sticker can send an invaluable message with very little effort. Think it’s just a random accessory for your vehicle? Think again.

### 1. Display your business

Business badges and business names are popular templates in the car sticker industry. Whether you’re using a company car or just presenting loyalty via your personal automobile, decals or stickers are a convenient way to encourage business. Witty or notable vehicle stickers can rouse the oldest marketing tool in the world, word-of-mouth, which remains the best way to endorse a modest enterprise. When done right, affordable stickers can also yield massive return of investment.

Stick your logo on your car door, add your e-commerce website on your rear glass, or put your logo on the windshield—treating your vehicle as a mobile advertisement can help promote your brand anywhere you go.

![putting on a car decal on the rear windshield](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e85ba21c5134e1eb776e742003b85e5651b63c80)

### 2. Voice out your personal message to the world

[Bumper stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/bumper-stickers) were yesterday’s social media status update. These sayings exhibit your life views and broadcast them to whoever sees your car or motorbike. It doesn’t even have to be words. It can be a symbol, an emblem, a joke, or even a cartoon character that speaks to you at this point in your life. If you want to get philosophical, the sticker you choose expresses who you are the moment you apply it. Your vehicle can be sort of a personal diary that way.

![custom car bumper stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f8d7d43f46990641e3709c996456dc85778beb76)

### 3. Show off what’s close to your heart

Family car stickers are some of the most famous designs. We’ve all seen it: drawings with mom, dad, brother, sister, baby, and Spot. You can’t really fault a classic. The beauty of having a sticker custom-made is that you can go beyond the usual stick figures. 

However, these family stickers have been criticized lately for being threats to security. (For example, a potential identity thief would clearly know the names of the members of your family right away!) So an alternative would be stickers about your hobbies. Do you like football, basketball, or hockey? Maybe you're into cartoons and comic books?

![custom face stickers for car decals](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/27809cb6ef1d9b7de40ad21a69ca69ad177a19a4)

### 4. Hand them out as gifts

Bespoke gifts are always a hit, so you can imagine how well a custom car or motorcycle stickers would go over when you give them away. They can be as intimate as a personal message to your loved ones or as great corporate giveaways. Hey, that’s another way to spread your brand around.

![custom funny car sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/621494a09b863ac8656b551104e72138a25d9b18)

### 5. They’re really versatile

There’s no law that says vehicle stickers have to be used for your automobile alone. Sturdier than your average sticker, these kinds of stickers can be waterproof as well as transferable and can be made with a variety of materials. You can essentially stick them on any similar surface, like metal, plastic, or glass. Put them in your room. Display them at your storefront. Stick them on your mailbox. Spread them on the floor. Did we mention there are endless possibilities?

![custom car sticker lettering transfers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4a9020ca88363477fba43fe30f75fcf91f049369)

## Why should you choose stickers to decorate your vehicle?

### 1. Vehicle stickers are inexpensive

Think of stickers as your accessories. They’re those little extras that can really take a look above and beyond. Unlike an overhaul, like a new coat of paint or car wrap, stickers are much more affordable. (Pro tip: Bulk orders are priced even cheaper at Sticker Mule.) Besides, how many ways can you really demonstrate your personality with a shade of color?

### 2. Vehicle stickers are adaptable

Stickers and decals are the way to go if you want to add a personal touch to your ride without the huge commitment of a paint job (remember that time you wanted a nice navy shade but it came out bright blue?). Car stickers can be as subtle as a few inches or as extreme as a hood-sized piece of art. You can cover the entire body of your motorbike or just stick a cutesy one on the back of your side window.

### 3. Vehicle stickers are fast

At Sticker Mule, the turnaround process is as fast as four days — perfect for an auto that needs a quick makeover. Some varieties are transferable (Sticker Mule has [bumper magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/bumper-magnets "custom bumper magnets") available, too), so you can switch them around in case you get tired of them. With stickers, you can express yourself more freely and, because they’re more reasonably priced, you won’t feel too bad when you suddenly want to change them up.

### 4. Vehicle stickers are entertaining

Since when is a paint job ever amusing? Funny car stickers are always a good idea. It can be a smart joke, a clever pun, or even a humorous cartoon. Imagine being stuck in a traffic jam and the only thing to entertain you is the car in front. You see all these cool stickers featuring witty remarks and shrewd drawings. Suddenly, traffic isn’t too bad. Do your part in alleviating traffic-related stress and sticker up.

## Where to put your vehicle stickers 

Placement is everything! Do you want your car sticker to be visible and shouty? Or do you want it to be soft and inconspicuous? Every part of the car or vehicle has its purpose when it comes to being a background for your sticker.

### Windshields

Apart from fun designs, windshields are popular spots for important stickers that send an official, immediate, and direct message: car passes to quickly let you through, company-issued insignias, or notes that signify position or status.

![custom car window clong](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d5d9762530ba699f879f2230aeb38bd3b21e379b)

### Rear windows

Rear windows are great for stickers that you want to be seen. Everyone looks at the rear windows — from passersbys walking past your parked car to the driver behind you. Just make sure to stick to the tops and corners so as not to obstruct the rearview.

![custom rear window car sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1cd8ba96dbac033c22d724d2dddce56f59cd3732)

### Doors

The sides of your vehicle yield a lot of space, making them the perfect canvas for large look-at-this car decals that are ideal for advertising and brand promotion. Car doors are also popular because any number or size of stickers you add won’t block your driving view.

![custom car door stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e63ded760a892c3fab5ad508f8f2fa06db4ab781)

### Windows

Windows are the perfect backdrop for clear stickers that make the colors and shape of your design pop.

![personalized car window stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6342dbc452b37f968d823a9071687665c886575f)

### Bumper and fenders

Ever a classic, bumpers are the best setup for sending a message that will stick, no pun intended. Bumper stickers are famous for being used in political statements, famous quotes, and timeless sayings.

![custom car bumper stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f12882301fea71aa79d60a289e2d4c5b05475a18)

### Gas tanks

The gas tank of a car has only enough space for an understated sticker, but a motorcycle, offers the biggest canvas and therefore creates the biggest statement. 

## What to remember about your vehicle stickers

It’s easy to get carried away with the look of your custom car sticker and where you want to put them, but don’t forget the logistics of it. Not all vehicle stickers are created equal, so once you’ve finalized your sticker’s appearance, make sure to tick off this checklist to ensure only the best sticker quality.

### 1. Durable and weather-resistant

Don’t think of your sticker as just a sticker. It’s a message, a piece of your personality and imagination, so make sure it lasts. Bumper stickers, for example, are exposed to the elements. Even front-adhesive window stickers can take a beating from fogging. Make sure your stickers can weather them all. Sticker Mule prints their stickers on premium vinyl that can withstand even the rigor of a dishwasher

Their [bumper stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/bumper-stickers), on the other hand, are made with thick, durable vinyl and are covered in a special dirt-proof, dust-proof, sun-proof, and rain-proof laminate. With these extra layers of protection, your bumper sticker may last longer than your car engine. 

### 2. Hassle-free removal

Sure, stickers are easy to put on, but are they easy to remove? The promise of stickers compared to a paint job, for example, is that they’re generally easier to handle—and that goes both ways. Say you’re tired of a sticker or you want to promote something else. You wouldn’t want bits of adhesive on your glass or your paint peeling off. At Sticker Mule, bumper stickers and car stickers come with a removable adhesive that won’t damage your vehicle's paint.

### 3. Do a final check on your design

Your design looks great on the computer screen, but that doesn’t automatically translate well on vinyl. Sticker Mule’s processes ensure that customers can see how their stickers will look prior to printing so that they’re assured only of perfection.

## Stickers or decals?

Many people often refer to stickers and decals interchangeably, and though they share a similar purpose, stickers tend to have an adhesive front or back while decals come in a special paper meant to be transferred to another surface. 

Depending on your design, either type can work for your vehicle. If you want more details so you can make an informed decision, here are some of the available decal types offered at Sticker Mule.

### 1. Transfer stickers

Fully customizable and easy to transfer, these vinyl decals (available in black or white) are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

### 2. Vinyl lettering

Relaying a message? Vinyl lettering lets you spell out what you want to say

### 3. Front adhesive stickers

Though not completely weatherproof, front adhesive stickers are perfect for clear surfaces. You can stick them on the interior side of your window so they’re offered a semblance of protection.

### 4. Clear stickers

White print is used as a backdrop for your designs to really make the color stand out.

### 5. Die Cut Stickers
Protect your custom design with a thick, durable vinyl that makes it pretty much weatherproof.

## How to stick your vehicle stickers

### 1. Clean the surface

It’s a no-brainer. The grime on a dirty surface will adhere to your sticker, weakening its adhesion. Make sure to clean your vehicle with soap or rubbing alcohol and wait for it to completely dry before doing anything else.

### 2. Choose your location

While car and motorcycle stickers aren’t as permanent, it’s still preferred to know where exactly you want to put them. Your window? Sure, but what about the angle? How far away should it be from the edge? Try positioning your sticker without removing the backing. You can even hold it in place with tape so you can review how it looks from various angles.

### 3. Don’t be hasty

Being overly speedy will make you prone to mistakes. With your sticker in place, take out the paper backing bit by bit and touch only the edge so as not to tamper with the sticker’s adhesiveness. Carefully press the sticker on the surface as you peel it off the backing. Smoothen everything as you go along, ensuring no folds and air bubbles. Make sure to finish neatly by trimming off any excess margins that don’t stick on any surface. 

## How to order custom vehicle stickers

Customization seems like a lot of work, but it’s really not. At Sticker Mule, it’s an efficient but careful three-way process.

### Step 1: Make your design

Go crazy and let your creative juices flow. This is the first step of customization: composing what you want and exactly how you want it. Luckily, we've made the process a bit easier at Sticker Mule with our Studio design tool. Just head on over to the [bumper sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/templates/stickers/bumper-stickers "custom bumper sticker templates") or [other sticker templates](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/templates/stickers "different shape sticker templates") section and pick a design that works for you and get started designing!

### Step 2: Go to the Sticker Mule website and start the order process

Once you have a design, just choose what kind of [custom sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers") you want and decide on a size (custom sizing is also available). If budget is a concern, the prices are helpfully published as well to aid you in your decision-making. The next page lets you upload your artwork, specify the quantity, and that’s essentially it.

### Step 3: Check the proofs

Make sure that the stickers will come out exactly as you envisioned them. You get to see proofs of your design before your stickers are printed so you can make adjustments on the sizes, lines, and colors. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed by the results.

<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom car stickers today!" size="large" variant="secondary" align="center" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/car-decals" />

Rear-window or bumper sticker? Find out some useful tips and tricks on how to put stickers on your car. Finding the perfect location for you car stickers doesn't need to be tricky! 

40 cool sticker ideas that are trending in 2023

[Custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "print custom stickers") can be used for just about anything — from fun uses (plastering your pet's head all over your belongings!) to serious ones (showcasing political affiliations or "baby on board" stickers). If you're low on inspiration for your next batch of stickers, check out our latest list of sticker ideas to jumpstart your creativity. 

![cool custom sticker ideas](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9071a532-3503-470c-83c5-a9fb351ea1bc)

__1. Sustainability and eco-friendliness symbols__

If you already do your part for the planet, consider inspiring others with a nature-friendly design. "Green" sticker ideas include:

- A recycling symbol
- A "Save the Bees" design
- A "Save the Amazon" sticker

__2. National parks and travel destinations__

![custom travel stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9c64be77-5818-4583-b729-8e9cf35da7b9)

Adventure is a popular theme for [car stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/car-decals "custom car stickers"), but you can also show your love for travel on just about anything — including your favorite suitcase! 

- Yosemite National Park logo
- Eiffel Tower illustration
- "Adventure is a state of mind" (Alastair Humphreys quote)

__3. Holographic and iridescent stickers__

We already talked a little about the [big holographic trend in design](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/8-graphic-design-trends-getting-popular-in-2023) lately. So why not try out some new [holographic sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers "custom holographic shiny stickers") ideas? Here are a few for you:

- Holographic unicorn
- Iridescent geometric pattern

__4. Retro and vintage aesthetics__

Harness the spirit of the 90s — or whatever decade is your favorite — with emblematic graphics for the period. A couple of ideas:

- Cassette tape illustration
- Vintage VW van design

__5. Space exploration and galaxy themes__

![custom space stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3093413e-e5b9-409f-aec6-50c6bfce992c)

Always popular with Whovians, Trekkies, Star Wars fans, and sci-fi appreciators in general, this is a theme as infinite as space itself — and your imagination. Try these ideas for a start:

- Mars rover sticker
- Astronaut floating in space
- TARDIS in a wormhole

__6. Music and band logos__

Share your love for your favorite band and get a good conversation starter to boot! 

- Rolling Stones tongue and lips logo
- Nirvana smiley face
- ...and just about any other symbol you like!

__7. Inspirational quotes and affirmations__

Cheesy commonplace or valuable life advice? An inspiring quote can be perfect for a bumper car sticker or wall graphic depending on your viewpoint. Think of things like:

- "Whatever you are, be a good one" bumper sticker
- "What if they're wrong and you're right" wall graphic

__8. Popular TV show and movie characters__

Rather than buying overpriced merchandise, make your own fandom swag — starting with stickers. Try all-time beloved characters like: 

- Baby Yoda in The Mandalorian
- Eleven, from Stranger Things

__9. Mental health awareness and self-care reminders__

With our modern epidemic of clinical anxiety and depression, it's never a bad idea to share a message of positivity and encouragement — for yourself and others. A couple of ideas:

- "It's Okay Not to Be Okay"
- "Worry is a choice." — Gavin de Becker
- "Breathe" with a calming waves design

__10. Virtual reality and augmented reality themes__

![virtual reality stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3d6b7728-14dd-4bed-b21b-2a3a333cd5f3)

Are you all about the metaverse? Show it on your custom stickers with things like:

- VR headset illustration
- AR interactive game scene

__11. Internet and meme culture references__

It's memeing time! Put your favorite meme on display in a sticky fashion. Ideas:

- "This is fine" dog meme
- "Two Buttons" meme template (with your text of choice)

__12. Climate change activism and environmental slogans__

Put on display a little bit of your ferociously pro-Earth side with a sticker such as:

- "There is No Planet B"
- "Protect Our Oceans" (with a turtle design)

__13. Abstract and geometric patterns__

These can always be a good way to add a little bit of color and customization to your belongings. Go with:

- Colorful mandala pattern
- Hexagonal honeycomb design
- or anything else that strikes your fancy!

__14. Futuristic and sci-fi designs__

For those with a geeky penchant. Try: 

- Cyberpunk cityscape graphic
- Robot head illustration
- "Don't Tell Me About Life" Marvin sticker

__15. Pop art and bold typography__

To make your design pop, opt for ideas like:

- Lichtenstein-inspired comic strip
- Warhol-style banana sticker

__16. Celestial bodies, moon phases, and zodiac signs__

Whether you're an amateur astronomer, a bit of an astrologer, or simply appreciate celestial-themed designs, you can't go wrong with these ideas: 

- Crescent moon and stars
- Favorite constellation sticker
- Zodiac sign illustration

__17. Kawaii and cute characters__

![kawaii anime stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/151bcd17-6a5a-4163-86e9-5fae09c8e460)

Inject a dose of cuteness into your life with your favorite Kawaii figures! 

- Kawaii cactus character
- Cute sushi roll with a smiley face

__18. Video game icons and characters__

Gaming can be a big part of your life and your personality. So show a little love for your favorite video game characters and icons by putting them in custom stickers! Try:

- Mario from Super Mario Bros.
- Link from The Legend of Zelda
- Any other favorite character!

__19. Minimalist and line art portraits__

Line art is trendy and fun — just the right relaxed vibe for a car or water flask sticker. Minimalist sticker ideas:

- One-line face drawing
- Minimalist Frida Kahlo portrait

__20. Social media platform logos and icons__

You can mix these with your username or use them alone.

- Instagram logo
- Your Reddit avatar sticker
- YouTube play symbol

__21. Animal and pet illustrations__

We're a pet generation and we know it. Celebrate the awesomeness of our best canine and feline friends in your stickers:

- Sleeping cat sticker
- Playful dog design
- Custom [dog photo sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/dog-stickers "custom dog photo sticker")

__22. Inclusive and diverse representations__

If you're all about inclusiveness and tolerance, inspire others to coexist peacefully with a well-displayed sticker. Think:

- "Live and let live" quote
- Jewish-Christian-Muslim unity flag
- "The more variety, the better society" quote sticker

__23. Hobbies and craft icons__

Show the world your passion. Sticker ideas for hobbies and crafts include:

- Camera icon for photography
- Paintbrush and palette for painting
- Chess knight on chess squares
- Football

__24. Minimalistic plant and botanical designs__

Got a bit of a green thumb? Make stickers to match! Here are a couple of sticker ideas for the plant lover in you:

- Monstera leaf silhouette
- Succulent plant illustration
- "Home Is Where My Plants Are" flower pot sticker

__25. Food and drink illustrations__

![custom food symbol pictures](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/fbec78c6-6331-4c25-bed6-27aee0150a29)

You say foodie, I say gourmet. You say appreciator, I say bon vivant! Let your love for food and the good life inspire your next design.

- "Good food, fine wine" text with a bottle of wine graphic
- Steaming cup of coffee design
- Tacos illustration

__26. Hand-drawn and watercolor designs__

A penchant for the graphic arts should never go unattended. And stickers are the perfect way to channel it! Go with: 

- Watercolor mountain landscape
- Hand-drawn feathers pattern
- Boat at sea drawing

__27. Tech gadgets and devices__

Are you an utter, complete, confirmed, incorrigible techie? Then you just have to show that on your stickers. Try:

- Oh For Fox Sake sticker with the Mozilla Firefox
- "Don't Worry, I'm From Tech Support" funny cat sticker
- "Have You Tried Switching It Off And On Again?" laptop sticker

__28. DIY and maker culture symbols__

DIYers are a select, but growing community. Help other members of the clan recognize you by adding a custom DIY sticker to your belongings. Here are a few ideas to get you started: 

- Sewing machine illustration
- 3D printer design
- I S2 DIY sticker

__29. Optical illusions and 3D designs__

Just have some fun with weird shapes and optical illusion graphics. Any of these can be a good conversation starter:

- Penrose triangle sticker
- Impossible staircase design
- Optical illusion elephant

__30. Cryptocurrency and blockchain icons__

![doge coin custom stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d9e8308f-17ea-4bac-9b96-462920cf9c3a)

DeFi is the mot du jour, isn't it? If you're on the crypto bandwagon and proud of it, show your passion for everything decentralized with car or laptop stickers featuring:

- The Bitcoin logo
- The Ethereum emblem
- A Doge

__31. Upcycling and zero-waste themes__

Are you hyper-waste-conscious? Then don't waste the opportunity to share the message on your favorite stickers. Ideas:

- "Choose to Reuse" text
- Mason jar with a reusable straw

__32. Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness imagery__

Spiritually inclined? In touch with your true self? Or simply inspired by ancient Eastern wisdom? Remind yourself that all is Maya — and make the reminder stick! Here are a few ideas:

- Lotus pose silhouette
- Om symbol
- Buddha statue sticker

__33. Fitness and workout motivation__

Not just for fitness coaches, these stickers can mix a little fun with a little inspiration in a memorable way. Couple of ideas for you:

- Dumbbell illustration with "I feel stronger already" text
- "Sweat is Just Fat Crying" quote with funny graphic

__34. Sports team logos and mascots__

![sports logo stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0730d157-12e2-4ef2-8d0d-84ae9473d9ad)

Showcase your affiliations in the world of sports! 

- New York Yankees logo
- Chicago Bulls mascot

__35. Activism slogans__

If you're fighting the good fight with your deeds, why not do it with your words too? Stickers are the perfect channel for that. Proclaim your dedication to your preferred favorite social causes with things like:

- "Build Back Better" car sticker
- "Come and take it" window decal

__36. Superheroes and comic book characters__

The Man of Steel, the Caped Crusader, or any other superhero can be a big source of inspiration — and a fun way to remind yourself of your heroic potential. Try something like:

- Spider-Man pointing graphic
- Wonder Woman emblem
- Batman with "My Superpower: I'm Rich" text

__37. Street art and graffiti-inspired designs__

Street art can be a big source of design inspiration — some companies even have logos made after them. So try your hand at that with:

- Banksy-inspired stencil art
- Colorful graffiti tag

__38. Mythical creatures and fantasy themes__

![custom mythical creatures fantasy stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/70e39dab-fcb9-4361-bd18-4166c4a3566d)

Add a touch of fantasy to your [laptop](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/laptop-stickers), phone, or water flask. Ideas are plentiful:

- Dragon illustration
- Mermaid silhouette
- Gollum "My Precious" sticker

__39. Cultural and heritage symbols__

Whether it's your true ancestry or a heritage symbol you'd be proud to be a part of, the world of heraldry and ancient symbolism has plenty to offer. You could start with:

- Celtic knot design
- Hamsa hand symbol

__40. Personalized and customizable name stickers__

Create decorated name stickers — your name or someone else's. Get creative with our [online Studio app](https://www.stickermule.com/studio) and flaunt that name! Try:

- Name with a floral background
- Name in a script font with a geometric pattern

## And there you have it

That's 40 ideas to get you started in (or help you further explore) the fun world of stickers. We hope you'll find one that inspires you to create your own custom stickers — and have them printed on Sticker Mule. 

So what are you waiting for? List your favorite ones and get to work designin' and printin'!

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


Stickers can be cool or cute but also great for promoting brands and causes. Here are some popular sticker ideas for 2023 to help make cool stickers!

Ready to print checklist with sticker sizes for printing

If you’re a designer, chances are you spend a lot of time in the digital realm. And while you might be the best pixel pusher around, the rules change when it comes to print design. Here’s a checklist of everything you need to do to make sure your design is perfectly print-ready.

## Dimensions: At least 300 PPI
If you’re working with vector artwork, you can go ahead and check this off. If you’re working with raster artwork, you’ll want to make sure it is at least 300 PPI (pixels per inch). You can increase the resolution of any artwork file automatically with [Upscale](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale).

If you plan on using a logo, text, or illustration for print, we recommend tracking down a vector (or high resolution) version of the artwork if possible. If you need help, we recommend checking out our vectorization service: [Redraw](https://www.stickermule.com/redraw).

![raster-to-vector](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7084286daa27ce03bbfdab7bfd1a6836fcedde98)

To measure your artwork’s PPI, divide the width of your artwork’s dimensions by the width of your desired print size. For example, if your artwork was 600 pixels wide and you planned to have it printed 3 inches wide, you’d only have 200 PPI. This would result in a low quality print and may cause your artwork to look pixelated. In this case, it would be best to either recreate your design at a higher resolution or go for a smaller print.

To figure out the maximum size your artwork should be printed at, divide the dimensions of your artwork by 300. For example, if your artwork was 600 x 450 pixels, the maximum size would be 2" x 1.5".

(Note: DPI *or Dots Per Inch* refers to the resolution settings of the printer, while PPI refers to the resolution of the artwork. Occasionally these two terms get mixed up.)

For example, if you want to [print stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/ "print stickers online"), the following dimensions are some popular sizes and resolutions that should be good for stickers;

- 2" x 1" (Min = 600 x 300 pixels) (Good = 1200 x 600 pixels)
- 2" x 2" (Min = 600 x 600 pixels) (Good = 1200 x 1200 pixels)
- 4" x 2" (Min = 1200 x 600 pixels) (Good = 2400 x 1200 pixels)
- 4" x 4" (Min = 1200 x 1200 pixels) (Good = 2400 x 2400 pixels)

----


## Color Mode: CMYK
Digital screens use a combination of red, green, and blue light (RGB) to form different colors, while printers use a combination of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink (CMYK) to form different colors.

![rgb-vs-cmyk](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5afdee4db5bfc9c8f1d2e0283687cf1e496118d6)

You can convert your colors from RGB to CMYK (or vice versa) in most applications by simply changing the color mode. Most online design tools like [Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "free online design tool image editor") or [Canva](https://www.canva.com/ "canva online design tool"), you can skip this since they convert all orders to CMYK files.

However, while RGB can display a very wide color gamut for screen viewing, the same bright, vibrant colors may not be achieved in the more limited CMYK color space available for printing.

When designing something for print only, it is best to start in CMYK color mode, or at least be aware that some RGB colors might look different when printed.

----

## Units: Inches
Designing with inches (instead of pixels) will help you in a few ways. First, it’ll help you figure out the exact dimensions of your print without having to do any math. But more importantly, it will help you indicate any cut lines or bleeds in a way that is compliant with most print shops’ requirements.

For example, Sticker Mule’s [transfer stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/transfer-stickers) require that any solid parts of your design be at least 0.07" thick. Working with inches makes this possible to measure.

----

## Cut lines
Cut lines tell the print shop where to cut your print.

![cut-line](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/dfe4f5f0959a990b8fd79a76d60707e8d5f9a560)

Some print products, such as [die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers), can be cut into any shape. At Sticker Mule we will automatically figure out your cut lines for you if none are indicated. By default, this is usually a uniform offset of the shape of your artwork.

[Indicating your own cut lines](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-create-a-sticker-cut-line) will give you full control over how your print is cut and can often speed up the proofing process. Cut lines should be indicated with a 1pt stroke.

----

## Bleeds
A bleed is anything being printed that extends beyond the cut lines. Bleeds are necessary whenever you want something to extend beyond the trim edge, leaving no white margin. 

At Sticker Mule, this is another thing we will add for you automatically as needed if possible. However, if you have something that is especially complex that you would like to be printed “full bleed” (to the edge of the print), then you will need to make sure it extends at least 1/16" past the cut lines.

----

## Outline text
This is a pretty basic rule when it comes to design, but it is often overlooked. Since there’s no way to ensure that a print shop will have all the fonts you use in your design, it’s best to make sure any text used is converted to outlines.

<WistiaVideo videoId="ke3fvba7fj" />

In Adobe Illustrator you can do this by selecting the text then selecting *Type > Create Outlines*.

----

With these items complete, your file should be perfectly print-ready. It’s usually best to save the file in its native format (Illustrator, Photoshop, Sketch), in case you need to revisit it later. Most print shops (including Sticker Mule) will accept artwork in their native formats.

As mentioned before, certain colors will often look different between digital and print – there’s no way around this. 

Once you've perfected the print file, why don't you try printing some stickers in different shapes and sizes today at Sticker Mule!

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


Stickers come in different sizes and dimensions, so we've compiled a checklist to make sure your studio, canva, and procreate canvas file is ready for printing.

Blog