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You can make stickers at home with a regular inkjet printer, sticker paper and a way to cut them. Here is the basic process and the choices that matter most.
Last updated: October 30, 2026.
What you need
- A printer that suits your sticker paper (inkjet for inkjet sticker paper).
- Printable sticker paper, ideally waterproof vinyl if the stickers will get wet.
- Scissors, a craft knife or a cutting machine for shaped stickers.
- Optional: clear laminate or spray sealer for water and scratch resistance.
Step 1: Match paper to printer
Inkjet sticker paper is made for inkjet printers. Laser printers use heat, so use laser-safe sticker paper only. The wrong paper can smear, curl or melt adhesive inside the printer.
Step 2: Design and size your sheet
Lay out your designs on a standard sheet. Leave space between stickers for cutting. Print a test on plain paper first to check size and placement.
Step 3: Print on the correct side
Load the sticker paper with the printable side facing the right way for your printer. Set the paper type to match, for example matte or glossy.
Step 4: Let it dry and cut
Let the ink dry fully, then cut by hand or with a cutting machine that reads registration marks.
Step 5: Seal if needed
For water resistance, add a clear laminate sheet or sealer. Waterproof vinyl paper helps, but check the paper maker’s guidance.
Which printer?
An ink tank printer lowers the ink cost if you print many sheets. A dedicated sticker printer and cutter is easier but limits sizes. See our best printers for stickers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any printer for stickers?
Most inkjets can print on sticker paper. Check that your paper size and weight are supported.
Are homemade stickers waterproof?
Only with waterproof paper and, often, a laminate or sealer. Ink alone is not enough.
Do I need a cutting machine?
For shaped stickers, yes. For square or rectangular stickers you can cut by hand.
Bottom Line
Pick paper that suits your printer, test on plain paper, let ink dry and seal the sticker if it needs to survive water.
