How to Make Sticker Sheets with Clipart: 7 Steps

Key Takeaways

• Use printable sticker paper (matte or glossy) for best results with your inkjet or laser printer.
• Design in layers — place clipart on a digital canvas with a white border to make cutting easier.
• Test print on plain paper first to check colors and spacing before wasting sticker sheets.
• Cut with precision — use a cutting machine or scissors, and always use a ruler and craft knife for straight lines.
• Store your finished sticker sheets in a cool, dry place to prevent curling and sticking.

What You Need to Make Sticker Sheets with Clipart

To make sticker sheets with clipart, you’ll need a few essential supplies. Gather these before you start:

• Digital clipart (PNG files with transparent backgrounds work best)
• Sticker paper — matte or glossy, depending on your preference
• Printer — inkjet works with most sticker papers; laser requires special laser-compatible paper
• Cutting machine (like Cricut or Silhouette) OR scissors and a craft knife
• Cutting mat (if using a knife)
• Ruler and pencil for marking
• Clear sealant (optional, for waterproofing)

Pro tip: For planner stickers, choose matte sticker paper to avoid glare and allow writing over the sticker. For junk journal embellishments, glossy can add a nice pop.

7 Steps to Create Your Own Sticker Sheets

Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Clipart

Start by selecting the clipart you want to turn into stickers. Look for high-resolution PNGs with transparent backgrounds — 300 DPI is ideal. If your clipart has a white background, you’ll need to remove it using a photo editor like Photoshop, GIMP, or Canva.

How to remove a white background:

1. Open the image in your editor.
2. Use the “Magic Wand” tool to select the white area.
3. Hit Delete to make it transparent.
4. Save as PNG.

If you’re using a cutting machine, you can also use the “Print Then Cut” feature, which adds registration marks automatically. For manual cutting, you’ll want to add a thin white border around each image so you can cut neatly.

Step 2: Set Up Your Digital Canvas

Open a new document in your design software (Canva, Photoshop, or Microsoft Word). Set the canvas size to match your sticker paper — standard is 8.5 x 11 inches (US Letter) or A4.

Create a grid layout:

• Use guides to divide the page into equal sections (e.g., 2x2, 3x3).
• This makes it easier to arrange multiple stickers and cut them evenly.
• If using a cutting machine, you’ll need to upload the design as a single file with registration marks.

Step 3: Arrange Your Clipart on the Sheet

Place your clipart images onto the canvas. Leave at least 0.25 inches between each sticker to allow for cutting. If you’re cutting by hand, add a white border around each image — this gives you a margin for error.

Tips for arrangement:

• Group themes together (e.g., all hearts in one corner, all flowers in another).
• Rotate images to fit more, but keep them facing the same direction if you want a clean look.
• For junk journal printables, you can layer clipart with backgrounds and text (but ensure the text is part of the sticker design, not the sheet itself).

Step 4: Print a Test Page on Plain Paper

Before wasting a sticker sheet, print your design on regular paper. Check:

• Are the colors accurate?
• Is the spacing correct?
• Are all images fully visible?

If something is off, adjust and reprint. This step saves you money and frustration.

Step 5: Print on Sticker Paper

Load your sticker paper into the printer with the printable side facing down (check the package for orientation). Select the highest quality print setting for crisp colors. For inkjet printers, let the ink dry completely before handling.

If you’re using a cutting machine:

• Print with the “Print Then Cut” option.
• The machine will read the registration marks and cut around your stickers precisely.

Step 6: Cut Out Your Stickers

Using a cutting machine:

• Place the printed sheet on the cutting mat.
• Load into the machine and select the appropriate settings (standard for sticker paper).
• Wait for the machine to cut — it will follow the outlines you set in the design software.

Cutting by hand:

• Use scissors for simple shapes.
• For straight lines, use a ruler and a craft knife on a cutting mat.
• For intricate designs, consider using a punch or die-cutting machine.

Step 7: Apply and Store Your Stickers

Peel the backing paper off each sticker and apply to your planner, journal, or card. If you want extra durability, coat the stickers with a clear sealant spray (like Mod Podge or Krylon) before cutting — this prevents smudging and water damage.

Storage tips:

• Keep unused sticker sheets flat in a plastic sleeve or box.
• Avoid heat and humidity, which can cause curling.
• If stickers start to peel, store them in a ziplock bag with a silica gel packet.

Which Sticker Paper Should You Use? Matte vs. Glossy

For most scrapbooking and junk journal uses, matte is the safer choice. But if you want your stickers to pop with vibrant colors, glossy might be the way to go.

How to Avoid Common Sticker-Making Mistakes

Mistake #1: Using regular paper instead of sticker paper. Regular paper won’t stick — you need adhesive-backed paper. If you’re in a pinch, you can use full-sheet label paper and cut it to size.

Mistake #2: Printing on the wrong side. Always check the packaging. The printable side is usually whiter and shinier than the backing side.

Mistake #3: Cutting too close to the image. Leave a margin, especially if cutting by hand. A white border can also make stickers look more polished.

Mistake #4: Not testing before printing. Always do a test print on plain paper first — it’s cheap and saves you from wasting expensive sticker sheets.

How to Make Your Sticker Sheets Reusable (and Removable)

If you want stickers that can be repositioned, use removable adhesive sticker paper. Alternatively, you can apply a thin layer of repositionable adhesive spray to the back of your printed sheets before cutting. This is great for planner stickers that you might want to move around.

For junk journaling, you might prefer permanent adhesive to keep everything in place. Think about how often you’ll want to move the stickers — if in doubt, go with removable.

Where to Find High-Quality Clipart for Stickers

You can find clipart from many sources, but for commercial use and professional quality, Creative Fabrica is a top choice. They offer thousands of clipart bundles, including vintage, boho, and watercolor styles — perfect for planner stickers and junk journal printables. Check out their Creative Fabrica graphics subscription for unlimited downloads.

Other sources include Scrapbook.com for physical supplies and free clipart sites like Pixabay for budget-friendly options.

Final Tips for Perfect Sticker Sheets

• Use a paper trimmer for straight edges — it’s faster and more accurate than scissors.
• Add a die-cut line if you’re using a cutting machine — this creates a kiss-cut effect, leaving a backing sheet for easy peeling.
• Protect your designs with a clear top coat if you’re using inkjet printing (which is more prone to smudging).
• Experiment with sizes — larger stickers are easier to cut, while smaller ones are great for filling in planner gaps.

Now you’re ready to make your own sticker sheets! Start with a simple design, and as you get comfortable, try layering clipart, adding text, or creating themed sets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any printer to print sticker sheets?

Yes, most inkjet printers work well with sticker paper. Laser printers require special laser-compatible sticker paper to avoid melting the adhesive. Always check your printer’s manual and the sticker paper packaging.

How do I make stickers without a cutting machine?

You can cut by hand using scissors or a craft knife plus ruler. For intricate shapes, use detail scissors or a punch. Just make sure to leave a white border around each sticker for easier cutting.

What’s the best sticker paper for planner stickers?

Matte sticker paper is best for planner stickers because you can write on it and it doesn’t glare. Look for a brand like Avery or Online Labels for reliable results.

Can I make stickers with my own drawings?

Absolutely! Scan or photograph your drawings, remove the background digitally, and then follow the same steps. This adds a personal touch to your planner or junk journal.

How do I keep stickers from curling?

Store your sticker sheets flat, away from heat and humidity. If they start to curl, place them under a heavy book for a few hours. Applying a clear sealant can also help prevent curling over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any printer to print sticker sheets?

Yes, most inkjet printers work well with sticker paper. Laser printers require special laser-compatible sticker paper to avoid melting the adhesive. Always check your printer's manual and the sticker paper packaging.

How do I make stickers without a cutting machine?

You can cut by hand using scissors or a craft knife plus ruler. For intricate shapes, use detail scissors or a punch. Just make sure to leave a white border around each sticker for easier cutting.

What's the best sticker paper for planner stickers?

Matte sticker paper is best for planner stickers because you can write on it and it doesn't glare. Look for a brand like Avery or Online Labels for reliable results.

Can I make stickers with my own drawings?

Absolutely! Scan or photograph your drawings, remove the background digitally, and then follow the same steps. This adds a personal touch to your planner or junk journal.

How do I keep stickers from curling?

Store your sticker sheets flat, away from heat and humidity. If they start to curl, place them under a heavy book for a few hours. Applying a clear sealant can also help prevent curling over time.