Step-by-step campaign marketing guide using custom buttons

Do pin-back buttons win campaigns? Well, if you're looking to gain an edge for your campaign, they just might be the answer!

[Campaign buttons](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/campaign-buttons "custom campaign buttons for politics") are a quirky way to grab people's attention and __they boost voter turnout__. And if you get your messaging right, you might just end up creating an iconic piece of American history.

![i like ike custom campaign button slogan](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/487149d6-4c59-4d42-8bd9-250ab49da208)

Their appeal is easy to understand. Pinback buttons are an easy, but subtle way to convey support for your politician of choice. Often, a person who would rather not flaunt their political allegiances in yard signs or car decals will still be open to the discrete, but firm political messaging that campaign buttons offer.

This, by the way, is key. If you're planning to add pinback buttons to your campaign swag items, it goes without saying you want to focus on your messaging. A campaign button may be a simple enough object, but if done well it is an amalgamation of your entire strategic planning. Let's find out how.

##Step 1: Establishing the foundation: Identifying key issues and messaging

![political canvassing with custom campaign buttons](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c5cad06e-f26b-4668-8bb0-22b0e6b81457)

Your messaging is only as effective as the issues underlying it. This means to craft a powerful and compelling narrative, you will need a wide grasp of your voters' preferences: what they're happy and unhappy about, what they fear most, what impacts their day-to-day lives and well-being the most.

This, of course, is politics 101. But it's still worth emphasizing.

- Getting into the hearts and minds of people is what canvassing is all about:
- Going from door to door
- Getting to know the people who'll be (hopefully) electing you
- Finding out what matters to them.

This is also where you'll want to harness the [power of polling](https://www.pewresearch.org/course/public-opinion-polling-basics/ "power of polling in political campaigns"). Polling is one of the most impactful political institutions brought to us by the last century. It's your best systematic tool for __gauging preferences on a large scale__ and avoiding deadly biases, and __should not be disregarded__ no matter whether you're running for state attorney, councilman, or even a seat in Congress.

###Campaign pin-up buttons in practice

Want to see an example of proper political messaging? Look at Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign. 

Take the issue in everyone's mind — the economy, as the US was in the midst of a recession. Polling amply confirmed that [82% of US voters found the economy to be either fairly or very bad](https://www.nytimes.com/1992/03/03/us/the-1992-campaign-poll-in-poll-voters-are-unhappy-with-all-the-choices.html#:~:text=The%20level%20of%20concern%20about%20the%20economy%20remains%20remarkably%20high%3A%2082%20percent%20say%20it%20is%20either%20%22fairly%20bad%22%20or%20%22very%20bad.%22 "when polling is bad using messaging"). Then take the need to deliver a pithy, convincing message, and remember brevity is the soul of wit. 

Mix all these ingredients and we get the famous slogan: "It's the economy, stupid."

That's the sort of message you aim for. Short, yes. But very, very well-planned.

###Other prominent examples
![gallery of campaign buttons throughout usa history](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a76b6314-a0a6-45ee-84c2-119fe48cd8e1)

Let's go over a few more historical instances, shall we?

- A message that seeks to inspire: The Obama "Hope and Change" slogan button
- A recovery promise: Reagan's "Let's Make America Great Again", repurposed and made famous by Trump's 2016 campaign
- A bit of humor: Nixon's "They Can't Lick Our Dick" campaign button (Yes, seriously.)
- And finally, a good apolitical example: Wendy's 80s "Where's The Beef?" button

##Step 2: Creating impactful campaign buttons
So campaign buttons are essential to political messaging. Why? A few reasons. 

- They're inexpensive
- Easy to produce
- Easy to wear 
- They are a quiet way to express support

Plus, they're a great little thing to hand out in canvassing, in campaign committee meetings, or to friends and acquaintances. 

Most importantly, they are a neat little mobile packaging of your political campaign: name, logo, voting date, slogan, and party colors. All of these can be combined to make the perfect campaign button.

###Craft a button your grandson will want
![custom buttons that make a grandfather and grandson happy](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a88a3daa-cdac-460b-a3b5-60479aae9273)

Here's one thing to keep in mind when designing your campaign buttons: people like them because they're durable. Definitely more durable than your average election swag.

I mean, who keeps old election yard signs lying around? Not too many people I know of. Dirty, beaten down, worn off decals don't have that much of a life expectancy either. But a campaign button?

That, my friend, is a collectible. The best ones will pin themselves onto the fabric of American history, and be handed down for generations to come. Some will even make it into [famous museum collections](https://youtu.be/OU-AMdbWbRA "video of famous museum collections"). 

##Step 3: Integrating buttons into canvassing
![custom political campaign buttons](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/145d14f1-38ad-4497-ada8-91926759d7f8)

Campaign buttons can be a great device for your canvassing — and canvassing, as you know, plays a key role in election campaigns. Face-to-face interaction with voters will help you gain insights into their thinking, but it also __makes you a more concrete person to them__, increasing trust and familiarity.

In fact, canvassing is crucial not only for gaining and understanding voters, but as a core component of your __get-out-the-vote strategy__ — that is, convincing your electors to [do the irrational act](https://alumni.berkeley.edu/california-magazine/fall-2012-politics-issue/does-your-vote-really-count-why-act-voting-irrational/ "does an individual vote even matter anymore") of getting up and going to the ballot box for you.

This is why it's fundamental to train your canvassers on:

- Communicating a consistent message
- Active listening
- Compassion for voter’s lived experiences
- Extemporizing to connect with voters

You and your team can benefit from courses such as [this master class on canvassing](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-canvassing-learn-about-the-campaign-technique "masterclass on what canvassing is"), on top of understanding basic voting psychology, voters' biases, and how to talk to voters.

Campaign buttons play well into canvassing, not only as a way for canvassers to identify themselves but also as a small gift to voters.

##Step 4: Enhancing canvassing effectiveness

A few strategies go a long way to making your canvassing more effective. Make sure you provide proper training to new canvassers — above all, they should be familiar with good conversation practices. 

Keep in mind that __canvassing is a campaign all of its own__, so it should have a clear objective — whether that is to acquaint yourself with new voters or to simply get them out to vote (GOTV).

You should also __have a set script for canvassing conversations__, including the line of argument to follow and answers to common voter questions. It's also a good idea to have your volunteers train among themselves, simulating conversations with voters and answering frequent points.

A practiced canvasser will also find ways to go beyond the script to drive home his or her point. 

One way to do that is by sharing a personal story that ties in to the reason why it's important to vote, for example. Another, as mentioned above, is to leave a campaign button that both serves as a physical reminder of the visit — and a call to action, — and draws on the positivity that comes from receiving a gift.

##Step 5: Data-driven canvassing optimization
To ace your canvassing game, you'll need a good plan for the several aspects you'll be tackling, such as:

- __Managing__ your canvassing team
- Providing __field reports__ and collecting insights
- __Scheduling__ events 
- __Building and segmenting__ a contact database

For these and more, it can be a good idea to leverage the power of technology. There are plenty of software CRM targeting specifically this type of political activity, such as [E-Canvasser](http://ecanvasser.com/ "canvassing software for elections") or [Mobilize](https://www.mobilize.us/ "mobilization software for political campagins").

A centralized platform will help keep track of the many different aspects a canvassing operation entails, allowing you to __adjust your strategies based on the collected feedback and data insights__.

In its turn, this feedback can be leveraged towards adapting or reformulating your campaign messaging, as well as refining the messages in your buttons and other campaign swag.

##Step 6: Building social proof with button visibility
There is another way buttons support your campaign, and that is by __building social proof for your campaign__. Social proof — the phenomenon whereby people tend to mimic the behaviors of other members of their social sphere — can be leveraged through __visibility and a sense of sharedness__, and that's where buttons make their mark.

The simple act of wearing a badge, button, logoed t-shirt, or any symbol of some sort, can make a person feel more connected to the cause or institution associated with it. This, in turn, [strengthens the perceived value](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endowment_effect "what is the endowment effect") of their membership and the actions associated with it. Which, in this case, is __going out to vote__.

With this in mind, you can distribute your campaign buttons at meetings or public events and have your canvassers wear them and carry some to give out to other contacts. As seen above, __buttons carry a perception of value__ (a collectible, a nifty little token) that makes them an excellent giveaway for your campaign supporters.

Finally, don't forget the power of the Internet. Make sure your button-distributing campaign is __well-represented on your main social media__: sharing pictures of the buttons and people wearing them will make them seem more desirable and bring further visibility to your campaign.

##Step 7: Microtargeting with customized buttons
![targeting political campaigns with custom buttons](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/afe274b6-73c4-489e-a903-7b71f9fbf7c7)

Want to take the power of your button campaign even further? Consider targeting specific voter demographics and customizing your buttons accordingly.

How this could work is simple:
- Once you have a large enough database on your electorate, you __begin by segmenting according to relevant demographics__ — age bracket, minority groups, commitment to social or environmental causes, gender, and so on. That's something that should be par for the course in any campaign.
- Next, brainstorm with your team and __come up with different button designs that appeal to different demographics__. Ideally, you'll be able to bring to button form the different causes your campaign is committed to, whether that's individual rights or environmentalism. 
- Finally, remember to __style your buttons according to the groups they're targeted for__. Millennials might appreciate a more minimalistic design whereas a baby boomer would like a more classic style. (Never mind Generation X, they're all online.)

To distribute these targeted buttons, __leverage the power of your databases__ (hopefully you are building a good one with the right platform) to determine where to distribute which — whether that's in train station gatherings, town hall meetings, or good old door-to-door knocking.

##Step 8: Continuous strategy evaluation and adjustment
It's hard to get things right the first time, so be sure to give yourself space to experiment with different ideas and adjust as the feedback comes in. 

Remember to be organized with your A/B testing —  that is, testing how two or more sets of parallel ideas work with different groups, and drawing actionable conclusions from the results. This can be used for your general campaign messaging, but also for specificities such as your campaign swag: distribute different batches of buttons and other campaign swag to different canvasser teams, keeping a record on how these are received. This will help you orient going forward.

As with anything else, the secret to success is observing and adapting, even if that means never getting out of a [constant improvement loop](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OODA_loop "why improving constantly is good").

##Step 9: Integrating buttons with overall campaign strategy
Your campaign buttons are all the better if they tie in with the rest of your campaign strategy. This means you should:

- __Retain messaging consistency__ throughout your campaign swag, online marketing materials, etc. 
- Pair your pin-up button with your campaign's __overall visual themes__
- Seek to __integrate your buttons__ with other parts of your campaign. 

For this last point, think __social media themes, popular moments__ in the campaign, and even __memes that arise during the campaign__ — all of these provide good opportunities to up your campaign badge game. 

Recent case in point: two pins for the 2024 election (see below). One is pro-Trump, one is pro-Biden. Both reflect a good dose of self-aware humor, with one playing on Trump's famous social media presence and the other rolling with the "Dark Brandon" meme that was even embraced by the President himself.

![political campaign buttons from 2024](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/12152ac3-77ac-45fa-a5f2-d536626b6142)

These are just a couple of examples, but the potential for integrating your pin-back buttons with the social media environment is virtually (no pun intended) limitless. You can simply go online, find what light your campaign is being portrayed in, the memes about it, etc., and take your ideas from there. 

Before you know it, you'll have a campaign button worth speaking of!

##Step 10: Post-campaign reflection and learning
Once the campaign is over, it's time to reflect and summarize what you learned from it. That's regardless of the result. Whether a bitter defeat or a resounding victory, this campaign is unlikely to be the last. And in today's fast-shifting environment, drawing the right conclusions can give you the edge you need for the next time around.

There is no lack of tools here, either. You'll want to compare survey data to actual results, gather insights from advisers and campaign collaborators, and — very importantly — keep in touch with your voters and maintain a tight database of the contacts made along the way. 

##Conclusion

Ultimately, the success of political campaigns hinges on a wide variety of factors. Current societal trends, how effective your team is, how effective the opposition is, the value of your campaign promises. And so on.

Some of these things may be outside of your control. But key ones aren't. You can always __improve your strategy, up the vigor of your campaign__, and __boost the enthusiasm__ of your followers. These things are malleable and, to no small extent, willpower-driven.

So be proactive. Think of all the ways you could be improving the way you move your campaign marketing forward. And don't forget to leverage the historically-proven power of campaign buttons to drive your point home, pin it, and make it something to remember.

<ButtonCta text="Start winning campaigns with custom buttons!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/campaign-buttons" />



Discover the ultimate guide to leveraging custom buttons in your political campaign. Essential reading for anyone aiming to secure victory. Learn how now!

How to remove the background from your logo

Whether you are a professional designer or happen to dabble in image editing from time to time, you've probably needed to edit a logo at some point or another.

Maybe you needed to repurpose a graphic, or maybe the job was simply to fine-tune a logo. Whatever the specifics, you've also likely had to remove a logo background at some point — and that isn't always an easy task. Depending on the complexities of the logo, detaching it from the graphic background can range from a bit of a headache to a well-nigh impossible and time-consuming undertaking.

![free background remover AI app](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/fba7428d-0154-42fa-9a00-a08cd8b99c77)

[Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free online background remover app") is here to help ease that task — remove the logo background, remove your headache, clear that furrow on your brow, and leave you with a neat and happy logo file that you can use anywhere.

It's all free and very intuitive, so let's show you how to make the most of Trace.

##What is Sticker Mule's Trace?

[Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "remove background from image for free") is a browser-based image background remover. That means you can use it without installing any software, whether on your laptop, phone, or tablet.

To remove the background from your image, Trace leverages AI technology that recognizes the central object or theme in your picture and instantly detaches it from the rest.

You can use Trace to remove the background from a photograph (and convert it into a [custom sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers online")) or with your logos and other professional graphics. The main thing is that Trace, while carefully developed and highly effective, is also a fundamentally accessible and easy-to-use tool. 

Plus, it's 100% free, whether you use it for 1 or 100 files.

##Benefits of removing the background from your logo

There are quite a few scenarios where you might want to cleanly detach your logo from its background. A few instances might be:

- __You don't have access to the original logo file__ and need to extract it from a website or from another file (in that case you might also want to use [Upscale](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale "improve the resolution of any image for free with AI") for a higher-definition graphic.)
- __You want to use your logo on top of other marketing materials__, such as a website banner or even a [wall decal](https://www.stickermule.com/products/wall-graphics "custom wall decals and stickers"), but without an unseemly white margin spoiling your looks.
- __You need your logo as a watermark__, whether for a business presentation or a PDF user guide.

And, of course, there's no end of possibilities to use your logo as branding. Take packaging, for instance. You can add your logo to everyday and seemingly unimportant items such as [packaging tape](https://www.stickermule.com/products/packaging-tape "custom packing tape"). There are few better ways to increase brand awareness and client retention at such a low cost.

Another example? Social media. A [2022 Renderforest Survey](https://www.renderforest.com/blog/brand-statistics "brand statistics study") shows that 75% of consumers think a brand's logo is its most identifiable symbol. If you want social media recognition, featuring your logo front and center across your media stack is a must.

There's no such thing as overexposing your logo, so it's a good idea to make sure you have a readily available logo file (with no pixelated background parts attached!)

##Using Sticker Mule's Trace — Step by step

If you've decided to give Trace a go for your logo project, that was the main step you needed to learn about. The rest is super straightforward:

1. Head over to [Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free image background remover") and log in to your Sticker Mule account. If you don't have one, registering is just a couple of clicks (use your email or connect with your Google account.)
2. Click '__Choose file__' or drag and drop your graphic to the central area on the page. You can upload pretty much any image format, including JPG, PNG, SVG, PDF, WEBP, and so on.
3. After a few seconds, you'll be redirected to a 'Trace complete' page. And that's it! Download your newly minted, background-less logo, or send it directly to print with one of our custom products.
4. [Optional] If you want to continue editing your logo, one click on the '__Customize__' button will take you to our [Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "free online design software tool") tool, where you can further improve your logo or even add a new background to it altogether.

Here's an example of a quick Trace conversion. As you can see, the graphic was neatly separated from its background:

![remove background from photo for free for a logo](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c6a8fa39-7258-452b-b8e3-7a5282c930e8)

##Tips for best results

What can you do to ensure Trace outputs the best possible version of your logo? There are a couple of things to have in mind:

- __Upload a graphic with the highest possible definition__. The sharper your initial graphic, the better your output will be, so make sure the uploaded image has a good pixel ratio.
- __Consider enhancing your image before running it through Trace__. You can easily do that with [Upscale](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale "ai upscale image"), as mentioned above.
- __Further refine your Traced logo with Studio__. Another great image-editing Sticker Mule tool is [Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "design online for free"), also free, browser-based, and super intuitive. Use it to enhance your logo further or give it a new background, if needed.

##Applications for background-free logos

Let's recap once more some of the many brand-recognition uses for your transparent background logo:

- Adding your logo to [custom packaging](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-packaging "custom packaging printing"), such as packaging tape, mailers, or [stand-up pouches](https://www.stickermule.com/products/stand-up-pouches "custom printed stand up pouches")
- Superimposing your logo onto website banners, headers, or avatars
- Printing your logo on [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom sticker") for giveaways
- Making [custom branded t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts for brands") for your employees or branded merch
- Watermarking presentations, website pages, product use instructions, and other company content
- Using your logo as a social media avatar
- Creating new versions of your logo with other colors
- …and plenty of other applications. 

##To sum up

Logos are the essence of branding — they are and should be everywhere. If you agree with us, it's time to generate your own background-free logo file. Do that and you'll be well on your way to giving your customers the coveted branded experience.

<ButtonCta text="Try removing your logo background with Trace now!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/trace" />



Learn a simple way to create professional logos by removing the background from any image with our background remover tool called Trace! Simply upload any image or photo and watch the background instantly vanish before your eyes...it's like AI magic!

How to design custom t-shirts from scratch

There are few things as fun as literally wearing your own creation. This is perhaps why [custom t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts") have become so popular over the past few years — they're a way to showcase your creativity, have fun with new designs, and easily dress in a unique way.

![woman wearing gray custom t-shirt from sticker mule](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b62d9766-23d8-4e3c-8df9-bda597865bf2)

It's perhaps no surprise, in fact, that the global market for custom-made clothes has been on a meteoric rise — worth $51.8 billion in 2021, it's [projected to reach no less than $131.6 billion by 2030](https://www.businessresearchinsights.com/market-reports/custom-made-clothes-market-101188 "custom t-shirt and clothing market trends"). It's no secret: people want to dress custom.

##Designing your custom t-shirts

There are plenty of ways to design your own t-shirts, but few, if any, are better than Studio.

###What is Studio? 

Essentially, it's a canvas for your creativity — a browser-based, user-friendly platform for devising your own designs and creating your own custom-made products.

Unlike other, more complicated apps, [Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "free online design tool with free templates") removes all the hurdles from your creative process, at the same time providing an ample library of templates as a starting point for your creative endeavors. 

##How to use Studio

To work with [Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "free online design tool"), all you need is a browser and an internet connection. In fact, you can even create from your smartphone. Let's take a look at how that process works.

###1. Choose a template

![custom t-shirts free templates](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/66e723bc-d2e4-48d0-b857-735f0ffe24f6)

Studio comes with a [vast library of free t-shirt templates](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/templates/t-shirts "free custom t-shirts templates"). Whether you are designing a t-shirt for a sports team, for your company, or just for good old fun, you'll likely find a Studio template that's just the right starting point for your needs.

And don't worry about spending time thumbing through templates either; just select the category you have in mind and browse the top templates for that particular subject.

###2. Edit your template

![editing a custom shirt template online free](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/bc722438-7cb7-4047-87cc-3294b37c1d74)

Even if your template is nothing more than a blank canvas, editing is as easy as adding new text or drawing elements, dragging them into place, adding color… it's all done in a few clicks (or taps, if you're on your phone). 
While you're at it, keep in mind a few key points to ensure your design looks well put together and appealing, including:

- The right combination of colors. It's not about how many colors you work into your design, but the extent to which they match. You can do some research on how different colors complement each other, for starters, and play with several combinations as you go.

- Text is often the first thing that gets noticed in a design, so use fonts that match the vibe you're going for. We [wrote a bit on the subject of fonts](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/what-is-the-easiest-font-to-read-on-posters-and-flyers "best fonts to use for t-shirts and poster printing") before, but it is a topic worth exploring in depth, as it can make or break your visual style.

- Placement. How harmonious the different elements in your overall design look — that's also key to your success. You can find out a little more about the rules of design composition and layout [here](https://99designs.com/blog/tips/design-composition-and-layout/ "tips on design composition").

###3. Print it out

Once you're happy with your design, you can download it or send it straight to print with Sticker Mule. All you have to do is choose your t-shirt size, quantity, and order. Before your t-shirt is produced, you'll get a free sample proof showing you what it'll look like with your design — if need be, you can request further changes before giving the green light for the printing process. 

Once you complete your order, your t-shirts will be coming to you in just a few days!

##Printing your custom t-shirt

Did you know you can print your own custom t-shirt at home and at little cost to yourself? That's one of the options we'll explore below.

###DIY printing

If you're a fan of doing things yourself, why not try DIY t-shirt printing? It's easy, doesn't take long, and yields fairly good results for more casual use cases. 

Take a look at [this tutorial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1QSgRSzoFY "create your own t-shirt at home tutorial") and you'll see you don't even have to invest in complicated equipment to print your own t-shirts (although you can get professional results if you're willing to fork out around $1300 as an initial investment for a shirt-printing machine!)

To print your own custom design onto a t-shirt at home, all you need are a regular printer, an iron and ironing board, a blank t-shirt, and some transfer paper.

The steps are simple, too:

1. Print your design onto a sheet of transfer paper
2. Lay out your t-shirt onto the ironing board and place the transfer area over the area you want your design to be printed on
3. Carefully iron over the design a few times, making sure you smooth out the whole of the design.
4. Remove the backing on your transfer paper and glory in your newly-printed t-shirt!

That's the gist of it, anyway.
 
##Going the professional route

![custom t-shirts of cats and pets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9edbff82-a284-4b5a-a805-c8704fbe4859)

DIY printing is a fun way to personalize your tees at a low cost, but it may not be for everyone. For starters, the quality of the design will inevitably turn out to be inferior to the design on a professionally printed t-shirt — the shapes will be less crisp and nitid, and the design is likely to wear off faster. 

On top of that, it's a time-consuming process. If you want your design stamped on a large number of t-shirts, you'll find yourself spending hours ironing stuff back and forth. Maybe not the best investment for your time.

###Online printing services

With that in mind, there's a simpler alternative: [get your custom t-shirts printed out for you](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts printing") by a professional printing service like yours truly, Sticker Mule.

It'll save you headaches and the potential disappointment of making a mess of your design — and ruining a t-shirt. And that inevitably happens on a long enough timeline of printing your own stuff.

In fact, if you intend to print your design on a large number of t-shirts, you may find ordering your tees from an online service can be a lot more cost-effective. Just check out the mouth-watering bulk discounts we offer on [custom t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom shirts printing") — order enough and you can find yourself paying less than $10 for professionally printed, high-quality, 100% cotton t-shirts.

Order now and enjoy holding your crisp, nice new tees a few days from now!

##Conclusion

As you can see, designing your very own t-shirt with Studio is a no-brainer. All it takes is a browser, an internet connection, and a little bit of inspiration — and remember our 2000+ templates are all there to help you with that!
Plus, once you have your design ready, sporting it in quality-printed t-shirts is only a matter of a few clicks and a few days' wait. Your Sticker Mule-made t-shirts will stick around for years.

<ButtonCta text="Browse all the free custom t-shirt templates today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/studio/templates/t-shirts" />


Your step-by-step guide to designing your own custom t-shirts online for free. When you're happy with the design you can either order them online or print them at home!

Trace: Best FREE AI background remover

Tired of struggling with complicated software or spending hours manually removing backgrounds from your images and photos? Well, the answer to your prayers is here, and it's called [Trace by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "best free background remover").

![remove bg free cat photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5c3e3998-b8a8-4528-80cd-d78d2acee469)

[Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover called Trace") is a free, user-friendly app that makes removing backgrounds from images a breeze. It utilizes advanced A.I. technology to accurately and quickly remove backgrounds, leaving you with a clean cutout of your desired subject.

It's pretty straightforward. Simply upload your image and Trace will do the rest, saving you time and energy!

![free background removal from photos with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c5dcf052-0dbe-4e21-a8f7-2b21961cc645)

The best thing about Trace, is that it's always getting better. Unlike some other background remover tools, we keep updating our AI algorithm to make sure it's the best it can be. This means that when you use Trace, you're using some of the newest and coolest technology out there. We think that's pretty cool in itself! 

Besides removing backgrounds, Trace also has the ability to easily make transparent PNGs, perfect for use on websites, social media, and even print materials. Use them however you like, including as:

- __Social media graphics__: Transparent PNGs can be used as overlay graphics on social media posts, giving your content a polished and professional look.

- __Custom product packaging__: Trace can remove the background from your images and photos, allowing you to create custom packaging for your business.

- __Website graphics__: Your transparent PNGs can also go into logos, icons, or other graphics on your website.

- __[Custom face stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/face-stickers "custom face photo stickers")__: Trace can remove the background from a photo of your face, allowing you to create a custom sticker of yourself or a loved one. These can be used on laptops, water bottles, phone cases, and more.

- __Print materials__: Trace can remove backgrounds from images for use in print materials such as brochures, [flyers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-flyers "custom flyer printing"), and business cards.

With Trace, creating transparent PNGs has never been easier. The tool's advanced technology allows for accurate and efficient background removal, leaving you with a perfect cutout of your desired subject. So, whether you're looking to create custom face stickers or elevate your brand's social media presence, Trace has got you covered.

But don't just take our word for it — give Trace a try for yourself! You'll be amazed at how easy and efficient background removal can be. Say goodbye to frustrating background removal apps and hello to perfect cutouts with Trace by Sticker Mule.

Try it now at: [https://www.stickermule.com/trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover") and see how Trace can help you save time and energy on your image editing needs.

<ButtonCta text="Try Trace for Free" href="https://www.stickermule.com/trace" />

Meet Trace, our free background remover, that could very well be the best bg remover on the internet. Unlike most, we continually improve our AI background remover to make sure we provide the best tool available.

How to make custom photo buttons

Have you ever wondered how to transform your favorite photos into wearable art? Look no further, because Sticker Mule has the answer: [personalized photo buttons](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/photo-buttons "custom photo pins and buttons")! These trendy photo button pins can be a great way to showcase your favorite memories, promote your brand, or even spread a message.

![custom photo faces buttons](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/11b9fc11-7fef-4cb9-899e-8b7ab506dc51)

## Creating your personalized photo buttons

Making buttons with pictures has never been easier thanks to [Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/ "print stickers")'s streamlined process. From the comfort of your home, you can design and order your custom photo buttons in minutes. Here's how:

1. Choose the size and quantity of your buttons.
2. Upload your photo or design. Don't worry, we accept a wide range of file formats.
3. Review the proof sent by our team. We won't print until you're 100% satisfied with the design.
4. Once approved, we'll start the production process, aiming to ship within just a few days.
5. With Sticker Mule, your imagination is the limit. Our [free online design tool](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "free online designer for printed products") allows you to create circular designs just the way you want them.

## Why choose customized photo buttons?

![custom buttons of dogs and cats photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a1b88593-f60b-4f6d-98fe-1ecb43d2f644)

Photo pin buttons serve as a unique way to preserve and share memories. Unlike a traditional photo frame, a button pin can travel with you wherever you go. Custom photo buttons are also an excellent promotional tool for businesses, artists, bands, and non-profit organizations. 

Unique buttons even recently helped [the internet reunite a long-lost jacket](https://kstp.com/kstp-news/local-news/internet-helps-woman-reunite-with-stolen-jacket-and-15-years-of-memories/ "women gets reunited with jacket with custom photo buttons") with its original owner just by the buttons it had on it! 

## Top-notch durability

At Sticker Mule, we guarantee durable and vibrant personalized buttons with photos. We use only the finest materials and printing technology, ensuring your custom photo buttons withstand the test of time.

## A world of possibilities

![different types of custom pins of family photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7acadbb2-c7a6-4f23-a44c-63c6b60d9af6)

[Customized photo buttons](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/photo-buttons "photos into custom buttons") are versatile, and perfect for various occasions. Whether for a wedding, corporate event, charity run, or just for fun, personalized photo buttons always add a unique touch. 

Sticker Mule is here to make your journey of creating customized photo buttons an exciting and rewarding experience. So why wait? Dive into the world of personalized photo buttons today!

<ButtonCta text="Make your own custom photo buttons today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/photo-buttons" />

Make custom photo pin buttons easy with this guide on how to create personalized buttons from images, photos, logos, or more!

From photos to buttons: Make custom photo buttons easy

How to make custom water bottle labels easy free online template

Welcome to your complete guide on how to create [custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels "custom water bottle labels"). In this post, we'll explore two main methods: using an online service, specifically [Sticker Mule's Studio water bottle label editor](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/search?group=all&q=water+bottle+label "free water bottle label templates"), and a do-it-yourself approach with store-bought labels and a home printer.

![custom printed water bottle labels](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ac80f7f4-4e39-4ebf-953a-c614020f0dfc)

## The importance of custom water bottle labels

Custom water bottle labels can add a unique touch to any event, be it a birthday party, a corporate event, or a promotional campaign. Not only do they add a personal feel, but they also serve as a branding opportunity that leaves a lasting impression. However, it's important to choose label materials that are waterproof and printed a bit differently than normal [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers"). 

Either way, the first thing to do is to choose the type of custom water bottle label you'd like to create. Keep in mind the importance of deciding on the label dimensions, as that'll directly impact how your label will fit and look on your water bottle. 

For a standard water bottle, there are two primary styles of label wrapping: __full wrap__ and __half wrap__.

- A __full wrap__ label covers the entire circumference of the bottle, providing a large canvas for your design and information. This option is ideal when you have more content to display or prefer a completely customized look.

- A  __half wrap__ label, on the other hand, covers only a portion of the bottle's circumference. It's a great choice when you want to maintain some of the bottle's original look or when your design is simple and concise.

In the image below, we provide recommended dimensions for both full wrap and half wrap labels on a standard water bottle.

Remember, it's not just about fitting the label onto the bottle, but also about ensuring your design and information are displayed effectively and attractively.

![water bottle label size recommendations for printing](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/63ed44fe-ee70-4f20-ac17-5ab03a3ced77)

Of course, while these are recommended dimensions, you may need to adjust them slightly depending on the specific size and shape of your water bottle. Always measure your bottles before finalizing your label dimensions.

### Method 1: Using an online service (Sticker Mule)

![screenshot of sticker mule water bottle template online editor](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b63dbaf3-dea4-46df-85bf-6ea8420ef842)

Creating [custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels "make custom water bottle labels") has never been easier thanks to online services like Sticker Mule's Studio. All you need to do is visit our collection of [free online templates for custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/search?group=all&q=water+bottle+label "free water bottle templates online"), choose your preferred design, and customize it as you please. 

The benefits of this method are numerous. For one, you'll get professional-looking, waterproof labels that can withstand pretty much anything life throws at them.

Here are some sample designs for a little bit of inspiration.

![custom water bottle label design example](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e351fa67-2400-47a6-86c9-2da82a950206)

![bottle for water label design for bbq](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/08bd0b3c-1ed6-48ea-b73c-3e36837bdc05)

![custom clear water bottle labels for parties](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/17e40864-61b1-49d3-bb73-c789800bb794)

### Method 2: DIY with store-bought labels and a home printer

If you prefer the DIY route, you can create your labels using [store-bought labels](https://www.avery.com/category/usage/water-bottle-labels/ "avery water bottle labels") and a home printer. This method, though a little more hands-on, can also yield satisfactory results if done right. Here is a step-by-step YouTube video that does a great job explaining the process:

<YouTubeVideo videoId="biJqNhTzjgk" />

However, it's worth noting that the DIY method comes with its limitations. The labels aren't usually waterproof and the print quality won’t look as professional on normal printers. 

## Cost comparison

When it comes to costs, it might be surprising to find that both methods come out nearly even. The DIY method might seem cost-effective upfront, but when you factor in the time spent and the potential trial and error involved, along with the costs of ink and special label paper, you might find that Sticker Mule offers better value for your money.

## Conclusion

[Custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels "personalized water bottle labels") are a fun and creative way to personalize events and promote your brand. Whether you choose to use an online service like Sticker Mule or go the DIY route with store-bought labels and a home printer, the end result will be uniquely yours. We hope this guide has been helpful and encourages you to choose the method that best fits your needs and budget.

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

Creating your own custom water bottle labels for parties, events, and businesses can be an easy way to spread brand awareness. Find two easy ways to make custom bottle labels in no time in this blog post.

5 things to consider before making custom logo t-shirts

How can I  stand out? That is the one big question that defines every marketing effort out there. Ad copy, logos, branding, influencer endorsements — it's all **a continuous quest for visibility**. 

![custom logo t-shirts printing tips and tricks](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/655ccce9-3377-466e-a8f4-0538dbb1e925)

Sometimes, though, the answer is a lot simpler. Instead of complicated ad strategies, keep it simple with some physical merchandise. Instead of just creating TikToks, create some [custom logo t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts") to wear in videos and promote later.

Branding via t-shirts (which you can both sell and give away, according to your strategy) is a time-tested marketing strategy. And far from being outdated in our digital age, it's made even **more relevant** in contrast with the overabundance of virtual content.

You just need to go about it the right way and look at the brands that had success with their t-shirt marketing.

## 1) Understand your brand

Custom t-shirts can be a wonderful way to gain visibility and convert a casual buyer into a loyal one. But there are a couple of things you need to get right.

First, know your identity. **The best design is born out of understanding what your brand is all about.** What do you stand for, what are your values? Do you have a mission? These are the elements that give real power and recognition to a brand name.

Second, be consistent. Think you have a compelling message? Stick to it and let it shine throughout your marketing style. 

### Case in point: The Hot Lips logo

![rolling stones logos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7879d958-20cf-40f4-9448-8e1e942c4119)

For an example of what we're talking about, look no further than the Rolling Stones' tongue and lips logo. Simple, but powerful, [their logo became immediately associated](https://americansongwriter.com/the-story-behind-the-famous-tongue-and-lips-rolling-stones-logo/ "history of the rolling stones logo") with the rebellious rock-'n'-roll culture of the '70s, and remains to this day a symbol of the band's timeless appeal.

## 2) Choose the right design elements

To get the best results, you can't overlook the importance of proper design. Give the proper attention to each design element to make sure you make the most of your t-shirt advertising bid.

### Positioning

For your logo to be clearly visible, you should opt for the top center or the upper right corner. There's a reason those are the most common positions for custom logo t-shirts — there your logo will attract the eye and be easy to see.

### Color

Our mind [instinctively associates emotions with different colors](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7027086/), which is just part of the reason they're so important in design. Bright red or orange? That's energetic and vibrant. Earthier or paler tones of brown and blue — that's a subdued, controlled feel. So besides fitting your logo t-shirt design to your overall brand style and vibe, keep in mind that colors have their own language.

### Font

We've looked at [how fonts matter in your poster or flyer design](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/what-is-the-easiest-font-to-read-on-posters-and-flyers), and it goes without saying the same is true for [custom logo t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts"). The right font will go a long way toward setting the entire tone for how people perceive your brand: professional and focused, playful and creative, conventional, out-of-the-box, and so on.

### Size

If your design has written content such as your brand name or motto, too small a size can impact legibility. On the other hand, bigger isn't always better; there is a right size where your design will both grab the attention and be instantly recognizable. 

If you're not sure which size is best, it may help to print out your design in different sizes on paper sheets. Place the sheets one at a time on top of a regular t-shirt and check how it looks from different distances — doing this will quickly tell you what size you should be going for.


### Case in point: Hard Rock Cafe

![hard rock cafe logo on an orange background](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8413fa60-165e-4aed-8490-f8ea42619f81)
*Alan Aldridge, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons*

[Take a look at that classic, oh-so-familiar emblem](https://shop.hardrock.com/tees/mens-classic-logo-tee/0889382316677.html) from your favorite rock-themed restaurant chain. Designed by British graphic artist Alan Aldridge, the logo (and subsequently, the tee) was such a huge success that the brand never had to look back or think to upgrade it: in fact, you can now buy this "piece of history" of a t-shirt just the way it was back in the '70s.

The design is bare — two colors, two fonts, and one geometric symbol. But its effectiveness is a clear argument for the timeless value of well-thought-out simplicity.

## 3) Print quality

You are stamping your brand on a physical product people will take home and associate with your name. So for the love of whatever matters to you, don't be cheap. Getting your brand linked with the idea of "terrible quality swag" is hardly a winning marketing move.

**What you want is to make sure your loyal customers take home a garment they can be proud of and wear for years to come**.

With that in mind, steer away from the many printing companies that offer cheaper, screen printing services that have a flatter, low-quality look. Opt instead for Sticker Mule or another company that uses direct-to-garment printing — a digital process that prints sharper, higher-quality, higher-DPI designs that really come alive on your tee.

## 4) Consider wearability

![a person choosing between different custom logo t-shirts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/cf07f9c4-eaab-46a1-8e36-e19bf88ccf04)

You want others to wear your tees out and about, and for that comfort and overall wearability are key.

That's what we make our own t-shirts for. They're printed on 100% ring-spun cotton and are unisex-shaped. Our buyers find them super comfy — just [see the reviews for yourself! ](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts)

Depending on your marketing plan, **it may also be a good idea to give your t-shirt a little bit of extra personalization**. For instance, people will proudly wear your custom logo t-shirt to display a location they've traveled to, a niche hobby interest they have, or a funny saying. 

Giving people an extra reason to wear your tee is never a bad idea, as long as it fits in with your overall branding and company values and style.

## 5) Determine your distribution strategy

Once you have your t-shirt design figured out, it's time to decide on a distribution strategy. You can:

- **Sell them as regular merchandise.** Even if your main product is not in the apparel category, you can offer t-shirts as part of a larger branded merchandise effort on your website or physical store. Loyal customers are always on the lookout for swag from brands they love.
- **Use them as rewards.** Add them as a quality freebie when a buyer places a large order — this can come as a nice surprise and will encourage repeat orders and loyal customers.
- **Give them away!** Social media giveaways are a fantastic way to get people talking about your brand. You can add your tees as a low-tier giveaway item or even as the main giveaway itself — all up to you.

Or just combine these and other distribution strategies according to what fits your business model best. Here, too, we can look for inspiration from the two famous names we mentioned above:

- **Rolling Stones:** Tongue-and-lips logo t-shirts were sold at concerts and other events, as well as [featuring prominently on their website](https://therollingstonesshop.co.uk/collections/t-shirt), making them into a kind of collectible promotional item that further connects owners to the brand.
- **Hard Rock Cafe:** The chain has retail stores at popular tourist locations where tees are sold as souvenirs. The brand is also known to use its merchandise in [limited edition offerings](https://shop.hardrock.com/pins/limited-edition-pins), adding a sense of exclusivity to the purchase. 

## Conclusion

Iconic names such as The Rolling Stones and Hard Rock Cafe are just some of the more famous examples that bring our point home. But since the [t-shirt became popular](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/the-evolution-of-t-shirts-a-decade-by-decade-style-trend-journey), companies of all sizes have been successful with this straightforward promotion strategy.

Keep in mind the requirements of a good design, of quality, of wearability. Understand your brand and plan an effective distribution campaign. Do all of that and you, too, can join the club of successful custom logo t-shirt promotion.

And with such prestigious members, who wouldn't want that?

Start printing your own [custom logo t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirt printing") through Sticker Mule today!

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


Custom logo shirts can be a great way to make your brand more recognizable. Find out the 5 things you need to consider before making t-shirts with your company's logo on it.

Stickers that sparkle ✨ Glitter stickers are now available!

While some people don’t like the number 13, we're super excited to have fulfilled our customers' needs for 13 amazing years. Sticker Mule was formed to be the best way to [print stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/) online and is now one of the world’s leaders in all online printing. It's been a fun ride, and that's what we're all about: good old-fashioned fun.

I mean, what could be more fun than making custom stickers as a business? And not just. Posters, decals, labels, packaging tape, keychains — our product line is constantly expanding. 

And guess what, now there's even more fun on the horizon with our newest product: [custom glitter stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers "custom printed glitter stickers")!

<YouTubeVideo videoId="WYQQZKZRoSg" />

These sprightly little fellas are the sticker equivalent of popping a confetti cannon at a lively party — they tone up the fun-o-meter a couple of notches and make everyone smile. 

Want to be part of our product launch? Then let's find out what our glitter stickers are all about.

### Why glitter stickers?

![why choose custom glitter stickers that sparkle](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/30be1093-1266-4643-8360-69679b6e7d2d)

Over the past decade, sticker marketing became a thing when businesses began trying different, more cost-effective ways to advertise. Inexpensive and easily shareable, stickers were the perfect solution. Now businesses all over the world add free logos or brand stickers to their custom orders as a way to form a positive connection with buyers and help them spread the word.

As for glitter, it hardly needs an introduction. Earlier associated with glam rock and fashion subcultures, glitter has since gone mainstream, and for good reason. It's a great way to add a sparkle of friendliness to just about any product or brand.

Glitter stickers are a surefire way to make your custom art, brand logo, or even pet picture shine. Slap them on a car or laptop and watch how they capture every ray of light — and quite a few smiles too.

### Benefits of custom glitter stickers

![vinyl glitter stickers of a mule with unicorn](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/022580ea-f351-454c-b70c-1d23656e3c62)

One of the best things about our glitter stickers is how incredibly customizable they are. You can order them in all shapes and sizes; we print them circle, rectangle, and square, as well as just about any die-cut format. With our very thorough (and very free!) proofing process, you get to edit your art and printing specifications until your stickers sparkle just the way you want them.

Also, they are Sticker Mule stickers, and if you've been with us for some time, you know that means quality. 

Printed in durable vinyl, our glitter stickers are made to stand the test of weather and water, sunlight and smog, dust, and detergent. They really kind of just stick around, looking as sparkly and new as ever.

All this means that if you want to harness the scintillating visibility and recognition that glitter stickers bring to your brand, there really is no limit to all the creative ways you can use them. Indoors or out.

### How to order your custom glitter stickers

![glitter stickers printing website checkout](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c8134f73-7070-4ced-a574-e729442f3fe0)

Ordering with Sticker Mule is easy. We understand buying online can be something of a hassle, so we've made sure to simplify our ordering process to its bare essence. You don't even need to create an account, although doing so only takes a minute and allows you to share your sticker art or save it for future reorders.

So it's all very simple. 

1. Select the amount and size of your stickers. 

2. Upload your art and add any printing instructions you have.

3. Check out! It takes only a moment, and you won't be charged yet.

4. Within a few hours, you'll get an email showing just what your stickers will look like printed. Now is the time to request changes to the design (all free) — or give us the green light.

Pretty neat, huh? And believe us, our discounts are pretty neat too. They come in several types:

- __Discounts on order number__: The more you buy, the less you pay per sticker — up to a whopping 87%!

- __Discounts on sticker size__: If you ordered a 5x5'' sticker, but your design turns out to take up 4x4.5'', your price is automatically adjusted to reflect that. And believe us, the difference adds up, especially for larger orders.

- __Discounts on multiple items__: The more individual artworks, sizes, or products you add to your cart, the bigger the discount. 

And of course, we run weekly promotions where our loyal clients get some of the sweetest sticker deals out there. Feel free to go right ahead and subscribe to never miss out on those!

### Customers are already raving about custom glitter stickers

> “Everyone is raving over the quality of the stickers!--- And slapping them on their cars too LOL! I highly recommend to anyone that wants a sticker that holds up to the weather etc. The glitter actually does have a bit of a rainbow affect in certain light.” 
> - Rachel G

check out this review

> “I am so happy with how the glitter stickers turned out that I almost cried!”
> - Heather

or this review too

> “My favorite sticker creation thus far! This is my fourth sticker creation using sticker mule and the glitter stickers are my favorite. the glitter background to my artwork were the finishing touch to make this design pop. I absolutely love everything about this sticker! Thank you sticker mule for all your awesome and affordable deals!”
> -Kandice

### Capping it all off

You can see why we're excited about our latest product launch, and we hope you are too. [Custom sticker glitters](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers "glitter stickers") are a perfect way to promote your brand and give a joyful iridescent rainbow to any design or artwork you love, and we suspect at this point you have at least one design in mind you're just dying to make glittery.

So go right ahead, and order your [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers") now. Get them in a few days with free shipping and enjoy the glittering enthusiasm of Sticker Mule!

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



Sticker Mule is launching custom glitter stickers that sure do sparkle nicely! Find out inside how and why glitter stickers can help elevate your marketing efforts.

Best sticker material guide: Top choices & expert tips

From the custom vinyl sticker on your laptop to the price tag on a book, stickers are all around us and vary not only in size and color but also in the material they're made of. Which is exactly our topic for today.

![best custom sticker materials](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/364a0571-271c-43c6-a1f9-93a6d4e5d86a)

Does the material my sticker is made of matter? You betcha. The material determines what you can use your sticker for, how long it's likely to last, and even how eco-friendly you are. So join us as we go over the main sticker types, their uses, and some pros and cons.

## Types of sticker materials

Let's begin by looking at the main types of sticker materials and what they're good and bad for.

### Vinyl stickers

The most commonly used type for both personal and commercial uses, [vinyl stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/vinyl-stickers) are made from a thin layer of PVC that makes them waterproof and generally more resistant than other kinds of sticker. They can adhere to almost any surface, including metal, glass, wood, and plastic.

Popular uses for vinyl stickers include car decals, laptop stickers, office signage, and product labels.

What are the pros and cons of vinyl stickers? Let's take a look.

__Pros__

- vinyl stickers are waterproof, sunlight proof, and fairly weather-resistant in general
- they last longer, are harder to tear, and can be washed together with the surface they're on
- given their flexibility, they adhere easily to curved materials and thus have the best adhesion of any type of sticker
- vinyl stickers are easily customizable in a variety of colors, sizes, and die-cut shapes

__Cons__

- although recyclable, vinyl stickers are not the most environmentally-friendly option, as they are not biodegradable
- tend to be somewhat more expensive than other materials

### Paper stickers

![custom printed paper stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ae7377c3-9a6f-424a-aa0a-49c93ceee142)

Paper stickers can be a more budget-friendly option that you can still customize with a variety of finishes, including matte and uncoated. Good for indoor use, they're often used as product identifiers or labels and are often applied to materials such as paper, wood, glass, metal, and plastic.

Paper stickers have their own pros and cons. 

__Pros__

- price (cheaper than vinyl and other materials)
- biodegradable: unlike vinyl, paper [decomposes quickly and completely](https://stacker.com/environment/how-long-it-takes-50-common-items-decompose)
- easier to print: paper stickers don't require high-tech printers for their production

__Cons__

- poor durability: even coated paper stickers have lower durability than their vinyl counterparts, and will typically fade and become illegible under external weather conditions
- don't deal well with dirt: unlike vinyl stickers, they can't be washed
- tear easy (they're paper, after all!)

### Polyester stickers

Polyester stickers are the most durable of the bunch. Slightly thicker than vinyl stickers, they can take a beating from the sun, rain, snow, dirt, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and other elements — and come out looking just fine. 

That's why polyester stickers are often used for very long durability purposes, such as product labels that need to remain legible for the full lifetime of a product.

__Pros__

- extreme durability against all manner of weather and elements
- high level of tear resistance

__Cons__

- print quality tends to be lower than that of vinyl stickers
- cost — polyester is typically somewhat more expensive than vinyl
- eco-friendliness: unlike vinyl, polyester is a non-recyclable material

### Holographic stickers

![holographic sticker materials](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/16804331-7b8b-4be5-9ccc-2ed944373626)

[Holographic stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers) can be made of either paper, vinyl, or polyester, but what sets them apart is the unique iridescent glow added to them (usually through an extra vinyl layer). 

The holographic light-catching effect is a great way to set your stickers apart and also makes for some special uses — holographic ID stickers for your car's front window, for instance, are harder to replicate than normal stickers.

The pros and cons here are pretty straightforward:

__Pros:__ Create a unique visual style and are harder to replicate.

__Cons:__ Tend to be more expensive and require more advanced tech to make.

-----

## Factors to consider when choosing sticker material

As you see, each type of sticker has its pros and cons. To know which to choose for your company or your personal uses, you must keep a few factors in mind.

### Intended use

Are your stickers meant for indoor or outdoor use? As seen above, paper stickers tend to be suitable for use inside, while the sturdier vinyl and polyester stickers are more suitable for out-of-doors applications.

Surface type, too, plays a role. If you intend to place your stickers alongside a curved or round surface, the extra flexibility of vinyl stickers will be a good plus; for surfaces more likely to end up grimy or oily, polyester stickers are the superior choice.

### Durability

How long should your stickers last? There's another question to ask yourself. If you need them to stick around for quite a while, both vinyl and polyester are a good choices — they'll usually hold up well in any weather and deal well with dirt and high humidity. 

On top of that, you may also want to look for additional specs such as UV coating (to make sure your stickers won't fade fast when exposed to direct sunlight) or resistance to repeated washing and higher temperatures (as in the case of mug stickers).

### Print quality

For intricate designs that are likely to get inspected up close, vinyl and paper tend to be the way to go. Polyester is a challenging fabric to print on, and although it can take beautiful designs and a variety of colors, it's more suitable for large decals meant to be visible from a distance, and not inspected at close quarters.

The difference between vinyl and paper tends to be not so much in image detail but in color vibrancy. Vinyl lends itself to more vibrant printouts (both glossy and matte), whereas paper will naturally be more on the matte side. 

And, of course, for a supremely vibrant and eye-catching design, you can't go wrong with a good old multi-layered holographic sticker.

### Cost and budget considerations

Cost may or may not be one of your primary considerations, but it makes sense to factor in the equation — especially when bulk ordering. Paper stickers can be significantly cheaper than their longer-lasting counterparts, and can also be printed in most home printers. 

On the other hand, higher-quality designs tend to pay for themselves, which means vinyl stickers almost always give you an excellent bang for your buck — especially if you take advantage of bulk-order discounts such as the ones we offer at Sticker Mule. 

### Environmental concerns

![environmentally friendly stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5874f2a1-cb61-4c86-8506-d0bf9c1be16a)

Some companies pride themselves in being ecologically correct, which is not only good for the environment, but also a lucrative niche all of its own — as of 2020, 45% of US consumers showed interest in buying from [sustainable or environmental-friendly brands](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1234119/consumer-interest-in-sustainable-environmental-brands/).

With that in mind, from paper (biodegradable) to vinyl (recyclable) to polyester (non-degradable, non-recyclable), there's a decreasing scale of environmental-worthiness that you might want to consider if you've been [looking to make your packaging more eco-friendly](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-make-your-packaging-more-eco-friendly).

----

## Tips for selecting the best sticker material

So, what are some good tips for selecting the best material for your stickers? With the above info in mind, we recommend you:

- __Assess your needs.__ Begin by determining how you'll be using your stickers and what are your needs in terms of print quality, durability, weather and waterproof, etc.
- __Test different materials.__ For that, you can benefit from [ordering small custom samples](https://www.stickermule.com/products/sticker-samples).
- __Consult with professionals.__ I mean, why do all the work yourself? Ask a professional at a printer. At Sticker Mule, we're always happy to answer your questions.
- __Consider eco-friendly options.__ After all, if it's good for the environment, it's good for you — one way or another.

-----

### Conclusion

High-flexible vinyl stickers with great print quality, sturdy polyester designs to put through the elements and all kinds of abuse, cheap and simple paper stickers, or fancy shiny holographic ones — there's something to recommend each and every type of sticker. They each have their purpose.

So, just make sure you know what you're getting yours for, test with a sample, and you won't risk ending up with the wrong sticker material for your designs.

If you've read this far, you're either (incredibly) bored or (almost certainly) looking for stickers. So why not try out Sticker Mule's vinyl and holographic stickers? You know you want to!

<ButtonCta text="Print stickers today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/" />


What are the best sticker materials for printing stickers? Here are the top choices and the pros and cons of each!

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!

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