Royal Elements Blog
Browse below for helpful articles, reviews, and more!
Read more on our blog about printable vinyl sticker paper, adhesive vinyl, DIY crafts, inkjet versus laser printing and tips for small sticker businesses!
Inkjet vs Laser Printers for Printable Vinyl Stickers
https://youtu.be/UH6Zm-KnEoQ Printable vinyl stickers have become a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and small business owners due to their versatility, vibrant designs, and durability. Whether you’re creating custom stickers for personal projects or commercial purposes, choosing the right printer is crucial to achieving high-quality results. In this guide, we’ll compare inkjet and laser printers…
What Can You Use Vinyl Cutters For?
Vinyl cutters are versatile tools that enable precise cutting of various materials, making them indispensable for both hobbyists and professionals. Their applications span a wide range of creative and commercial projects. 1. Custom Apparel and Accessories Vinyl cutters are extensively used to design personalized clothing and accessories. By cutting heat transfer vinyl (HTV), intricate designs, logos,…
Top 10 Best Adhesive Vinyl Brands
Adhesive vinyl is a crafting essential for anyone using Cricut, Silhouette, Brother vinyl cutters, or other cutting machines. From creating custom decals to home décor, adhesive vinyl offers endless possibilities. With so many brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your project. That’s why we’ve done the research…
Top 10 Best Laminating Sheets for Stickers
Creating durable, professional-grade stickers doesn’t just stop at printing. Laminating sheets and rolls are essential tools for protecting your designs from water, scratches, and fading while enhancing their overall appearance. Whether you’re a DIY sticker maker or running a small business, choosing the right laminating product is key to ensuring your stickers stand out and…
Light vs. Dark Transfer Paper – What’s The Difference?
When it comes to creating custom T-shirts, tote bags, and other fabric items, choosing the right transfer paper is essential. Light and dark transfer papers may seem similar, but each has unique qualities suited for different fabrics, designs, and printing techniques. Let’s break down everything you need to know about these two types of transfer…
Is A Cricut The Same as a Vinyl Cutter?
When it comes to creating personalized stickers, decals, and designs, Cricut machines and vinyl cutters are often the top choices. But what are the real differences between them? Are they interchangeable, or does each one serve a unique purpose? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Cricuts and vinyl cutters,…
Removable vs. Permanent Adhesive Vinyl: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to crafting, decals, and DIY projects, choosing the right type of adhesive vinyl can make or break your decal. But with so many options available, which type should you pick—removable or permanent adhesive vinyl? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key differences between these two popular vinyl types, when to…
Can You Print Vinyl on a Regular Printer?
One common question we receive at Royal Elements is: “Can you print vinyl on a regular printer?” The short answer is: Yes, you can print vinyl on a regular printer—with some conditions. What is Printable Vinyl? Printable vinyl is a versatile material that allows you to create durable, water-resistant stickers and decals. Unlike traditional sticker paper,…
How Do Laminators Work? Everything You Should Know
Laminators are essential tools in schools, offices, and even at home, designed to protect and enhance documents, photos, and various paper materials. They add a layer of plastic film to printed items, making them more durable and resistant to damage, moisture, and wear. 1. What is Laminating? Laminating is the process of applying a clear…
What is the Best Material to Print Stickers On?
Choosing the right material to print your stickers on is crucial to ensure they look great, last long, and fulfill their intended purpose. In this article, we’ll explore the top 7 materials used for printing or buying stickers (including the pros & cons) to help you determine which is best for your needs. 1. Vinyl Stickers Vinyl…
Do Printable Vinyl Stickers Need To Be Laminated?
If you’re wondering whether you need to laminate your printable vinyl stickers– yes, you should always laminate them – especially if they will be exposed to liquids, rain, or direct sunlight. With printable vinyl sticker paper, although the vinyl material itself is waterproof, the ink used to print is generally not (unless you’re using a laser printer).…
What Kind of Paper Do You Use To Print Stickers?
You can use a variety of printable sticker paper, printable vinyl, and decal paper to print on your inkjet or laser printer at home to make your own stickers. Printing your own DIY stickers from home is almost as easy as printing on a normal sheet of paper, with only a couple of small differences that…
Glossy VS Matte Stickers – Which Are Best?
When it comes to selecting the finish of your stickers, are matte stickers or glossy stickers better? Some of this is a matter of personal preference, but there are pros and cons to each that you have to be aware of! What is a matte sticker? Matte stickers have a dull (not shiny) printed surface…
What Is Waterslide Decal Paper?
Waterslide decal paper (also called water transfer paper) is a type of printable decal film that is printed on a home printer. It gets its name from the need to place the decal in a bowl of water (to activate the adhesive residue) and slide the decal off of the paper backing to place it…
How To Sublimate On Waterslide Paper
If you’re wondering “can I use sublimation ink on waterslide paper?” the answer is yes you can! To sublimate on waterslide decal paper and transfer the image to a cotton t-shirt you will need a DTF printer and to follow a special process outlined below to see best results. This innovative technique involves printing a…
Best Ink For Printable Vinyl Stickers
The best kind of inkjet ink to use for printable vinyl stickers is dye-based ink in most cases. This is the most vibrant solution that does not bleed or run – however it will fade in direct sunlight and is not 100% waterproof (unless properly sealed with a clear sealant or laminating sheet). Laser printers are also…
Top 25 Best Printable Vinyl Brands Compared
If you’re looking for the best printable vinyl sticker paper brand but have been frustrated with low quality or the shear amount of options available on the market today – then you’re in the right place because today we will be breaking down the top 25 printable vinyl brands and introducing our own line of Royal…
What Is Printable Vinyl? (Beginner’s Guide)
Printable vinyl is an adhesive-backed printable sticker sheet often sized in 8.5” x 11” that is able to be used by home inkjet and/or laser printers. They come in a variety of colors and finishes (glossy, clear, matte, holographic) and are often used to personalize everyday items such as water bottles, laptops, car bumpers, phone…
Can You Put Epoxy Over Vinyl Stickers?
Yes, you can epoxy over printable vinyl stickers. This will give it a beautiful hardened glossy surface. Applying epoxy resin on top of vinyl will seal your stickers completely, making them water-resistant. One popular craft is to epoxy over tumblers that have custom glitter or vinyl stickers in which case they will be 100% waterproof and dishwasher…
What Type Of Printer Is Best For Printable Vinyl Stickers?
After testing dozens of printable vinyl brands and samples with various printers we can confidently say that the best type of printer for printable vinyl stickers is an inkjet printer that uses dye-based ink. Pigment based inkjet printers and laser printers are also compatible with many printable vinyl sticker sheets but produce a lower quality…
Printable Vinyl Sticker Sheets VS Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl
The word “printable vinyl” is often used in the crafting world, but did you know that there are type main types of printable vinyl? There is printable vinyl sticker sheets -made for creating DIY stickers, and then there is printable heat transfer vinyl (HTV) – made to create custom T-shirts. What Is Printable Vinyl? Printable…
Top 5 Ways To Make Inkjet Prints Waterproof
If you’re running into issues with your inkjet printer not printing waterproof pages- don’t worry you’re not alone! These are our top 5 ways for how to make inkjet ink waterproof. 1. Fixative Spray: Use an acrylic fixative spray from Mod Podge or Krylon to waterproof your inkjet prints. These sprays create a protective layer over…
How To Make Holographic Stickers
If you’re thinking about printing your own stickers and want to spice things up – making holographic printed stickers is a great choice! https://youtu.be/5MNNeBDzSiA What Is A Holographic Sticker? Holographic stickers are made from a vinyl material with a special rainbow-like metallic finish that reflects light and dazzles the eye. A thin layer of metal…
How to Stop Ink From Smearing On Your Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper
A common complaint we get from customers is, “Help! Why is the ink smearing on my printable vinyl?” We get it, it can be extremely frustrating if you have a BEAUTIFL sticker you just printed- only to find out the ink (black ink in particular) starts to smear or run when you touch it… Ink…
What You Need To Know About Eco Solvent Printing And Ink
What is Eco-Solvent Printing? Eco-solvent printing is a digital printing technique that utilizes a special type of solvent-based ink known as eco-solvent. Unlike traditional solvent-based inks, which can be harsh on the environment, eco-solvents are formulated to be more environmentally friendly, with reduced levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals. The eco-solvent printing process…
The Ultimate Guide to Reflective Vinyl: Everything You Need to Know
What is Reflective Vinyl? Reflective vinyl is a specialized type of material that has the remarkable ability to reflect light. Unlike traditional vinyl, which simply absorbs or transmits light, reflective vinyl is designed to bounce light back, creating a striking and eye-catching effect. The secret to reflective vinyl’s reflective properties lies in its construction. …
How To Make Clear Printable Vinyl Stickers
In this article, we will show you how to make clear printable vinyl stickers using Cricut’s Print Then Cut feature. Clear printable vinyl stickers are a great way to add a personalized touch to your belongings. They are durable, waterproof, and can even be dishwasher safe when laminated. So let’s get started! https://youtu.be/oQbNhRPLonc?si=-NuY8JOKDQCPTXoc Materials Needed Before we…
How To Choose The Best Kind Of Printable Sticker Paper For Beginners
When it comes to creating custom stickers, choosing the right printable sticker paper is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which one is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we will explore some common questions about sticker paper and provide you with the information you need…
Top 5 Best Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl Brands
If you’re looking for a list of the best printable heat transfer vinyl (HTV) paper options, then you’re in luck! Because today we will be overview the top printable htv brands comparing the good, the bad, and the ugly side of each. Let’s begin! 1. Siser EasyColor DTV Siser EasyColor DTV is a top choice…
4 Ways To Transfer Adhesive Vinyl (Without Transfer Tape)
If you’re a fan of crafting with adhesive vinyl, you may have encountered a common problem – running out of transfer tape. Transfer tape is a handy tool that helps you transfer your vinyl designs onto various surfaces smoothly. But what if you don’t have any transfer tape on hand? Don’t worry! In this article,…
How To Make Temporary Tattoos For Beginners
Whether you’re looking to express yourself with unique designs or host a creative party with friends, making your own temporary tattoos is a fun and exciting activity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through three unique methods for making your own temp tattoos, from choosing the perfect design to applying your custom creations. Get ready…
How To Print Amazing Bumper Stickers At Home (5 Steps)
Bumper stickers are a fun and creative way to express yourself and share your message with the world. Whether you want to promote a cause, advertise your business, or simply add some personality to your vehicle, printing bumper stickers at home can be a cost-effective and convenient option. In this article, we will guide you…
How To Create Custom DIY Fridge Magnets (6 Easy Steps)
Have you ever wanted to a specific photo or piece of art to be turned into a refrigerator magnet, but didn’t have the resources or know-how? Well you’re in luck! Today it is easier than ever to create your own DIY fridge magnets following the steps below: Looking for similar articles? Check out: “How To Make…
Printable Vinyl vs Sticker Paper Explained
What’s the difference between printable vinyl and sticker paper? In short, printable vinyl is made from a vinyl base material with a special coating to accept inkjet ink. Printable sticker paper, is made from 100% paper material that may or may not have a coating on top. Both printable vinyl and printable sticker paper have an adhesive…
6 Simple Steps to Create Your Own Custom Labels
Labels are a great way to add a personal touch to your belongings, whether it’s for organizing your pantry, labeling your homemade products, or adding a special touch to gifts. In this article, we will explore how you can create your own personalized labels. We will discuss the different types of labels, the materials you…
Will Inkjet Paper Work in my Laser Printer? (Solved)
Inkjet and laser printers are two different technologies that work in distinct ways. Inkjet printers use liquid inks to print photos, artwork, text, and graphics, while laser printers use dry toner, a fine powder, to create prints. While both types of printers can work with various types of paper, the key lies in how well…
How Does Static Cling Window Film Work?
Static cling window film is a popular choice for adding privacy, reducing glare, and enhancing the appearance of windows. But have you ever wondered how it actually works? In this article, we will explore the science behind static cling window film and how it adheres to glass surfaces without the need for any adhesive. Understanding…
What Does Sticker Bombing Mean?
Sticker bombing has exploded (no pun intended) in popularity and has become more than just a practical use of stickers. It has evolved into a form of creative expression and activism. In this article, we will explore the world of sticker bombing, its history, different types, and how it works. What is sticker bombing? Sticker…
7 Ways to Save Old Stickers And Make Them Sticky Again
If you’re trying to save or refurbish old stickers, but don’t want to damage or mange them in the process, you’re in the right place! Method 1: Double-Sided Tape: Applying double-sided tape to the back of a sticker is one of the simplest and most effective methods for rejuvenating its stickiness. The double-sided tape provides…
How To Make Holographic Print Then Cut Stickers
In this article, we will learn how to make holographic print then cut stickers using a vinyl cutting machine. Holographic stickers are trendy and cute, and they can be used to decorate various items such as notebooks, laptops, and packages. They also have the added benefit of being water-resistant. So, whether you want to make…
Top 10 Ways To Remove Sticker Residue From Any Surface
Removing sticker residue can be a frustrating task, but with the right materials and techniques, it can be done easily. In this article, we will share some effective methods to remove sticker residue from various surfaces using common household items. Whether you’re dealing with residue on glass, plastic, wood, or even clothing, these tips will…
8 Essential Steps to Kickstart Your Custom Sticker Business
Starting a custom sticker business can be a lucrative venture, especially in today’s digital age where online shopping is booming. With low start-up costs and the ability to reach a wide audience, it’s no wonder that custom sticker businesses are growing in popularity. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of…
Stickers vs. Decals – What is the Difference?
Stickers and decals are both popular options for customizing surfaces with designs, information, or colors. While they may seem similar, there are important differences between the two. Understanding these differences is crucial to ensure you choose the right option for your needs. In this article, we will explore the disparities between stickers and decals, and…
Stickers VS Labels: What’s The Difference? (INFOGRAPHIC)
Stickers are typically for decorative, DIY, creative, or playful purposes whereas labels are generally used for commercial branding, products, barcodes, or warning/information based purposes. In the world of printing and adhesive materials, two terms that are often used interchangeably are “labels” and “stickers.” While they may seem similar at first glance, they serve distinct purposes and…
Die Cut VS Kiss Cut Stickers (Explained In Plain English)
Die cut stickers and kiss cut stickers may look similar, but they have some key differences. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between these two types of stickers and help you decide which one is best for your needs. Die Cut Stickers Die cut stickers are cut straight through the vinyl and paper…
How to Create Stickers With Cricut “Print Then Cut”: A Comprehensive Guide
Custom stickers are a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your planner or bullet journal. Whether you want to label craft supplies, organize pantry storage, or create thoughtful gifts, customized stickers are a fun and versatile option. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making stickers using Cricut’s “Print…
Turn Your Cricut Crafts into Cash: 5 Projects to Sell for Profit
If you enjoy crafting with your Cricut but would like to earn money while doing it (instead of just spending money)- this article will help demystify the art of making money while crafting! In this article, we will discuss five profitable items that you can sell for your craft business using your Cricut machine. These items are…
The Ultimate Guide to DTF Printing: Everything You Need to Know
DTF printing, or Direct To Film printing, is a technique that allows you to print your designs directly onto a film and then transfer them onto T-shirts made of cotton, polyester, or their blends. Unlike other methods, DTF printing can work with white ink, making it a versatile option for any color of fabric. In…
How To Use Transfer Tape For Adhesive Vinyl
Have you ever wanted to spice up a boring item with adhesive vinyl but didn’t have the know-how? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will show you how to use transfer tape to add adhesive vinyl decals to almost any surface! Materials Needed Cricut machine adhesive vinyl (we’ll be using holographic…
A Guide to Making Your Own DIY Stickers (Top 5 Methods)
Have you been looking for a unique way to create your own DIY stickers without ordering from an expensive print or sticker shop? Well you’re in luck! Today we’ll be sharing the top 5 methods for how to make your own custom sticks and decals. Gather Your Materials Before we embark on our sticker-making journey,…
Top 20 Frequently Asked Questions About Printable Vinyl (ANSWERED)
What is printable vinyl? Printable vinyl is a type of vinyl material that is designed to be compatible with printing on inkjet or laser printers. It allows you to print custom designs and graphics onto the vinyl surface. We wrote an article explaining what printable vinyl is with additional resources on this blog post. What are the key…
The Ultimate Guide to SVGs: How to Find and Download Amazing Cut Files for Your Cricut or Silhouette!
In this article, we will discuss how to find and download Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG) cut files for your Cricut or Silhouette machine. SVG cut files are a popular choice for crafters as they can be easily resized without losing quality. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crafter, learning how to find and download SVG…
Top 7 Best Clear Sealants For Waterslide Decal Paper
Do all clear acrylic sealant sprays perform equally well on waterslide paper? We wish we could tell you they do. However, the fact is, they are NOT all equal when using them to seal inkjet waterslide decal paper. One brand of aerosol clear spray paint may be the best fit for one project but not…
Is Printable Vinyl Waterproof? (SOLVED)
Yes, printable vinyl is waterproof. However the top layer where ink is printed is not always waterproof. It is designed to withstand exposure to water and other elements without signs of damage. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including outdoor use. Royal Elements provides high quality printable vinyl carefully tested to provide…
How to Apply Custom Vinyl Decals To Mugs
Vinyl mugs are a fun and easy way to personalize your drinkware. In this article, we will show you how to put vinyl on mugs, share the results of a vinyl test, and provide some cute design ideas for your own creations. Putting Vinyl on Mugs When applying vinyl to mugs, it’s important to avoid…
How To Make Glitter Epoxy Tumblers: A Step-By-Step Tutorial
Glitter tumblers make fantastic personalized gifts and can be customized to suit any style or preference. Whether you prefer a sleek and smooth finish or a sparkly and textured look, this tutorial has got you covered. So let’s dive in and get started! Our experimental glitter epoxy tumbler with waterslide decal! Materials Needed Before we…
How To Make Stickers On Canva To Sell Online For Beginners
In this article, We will show you how to create your own stickers on Canva and start selling them online on platforms like Etsy. With the help of Canva and a third-party printing website like Printful, you can easily design and print your own stickers to sell online for profit. So let’s get started! Signing…
16 Best Cricut Tips, Tricks & Hidden Features For Beginners!
In this article, we will explore the top 16 Cricut tips, tricks, shortcuts, hacks, and hidden features that will help you get the most out of your Cricut machine. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, these tips will surely enhance your crafting experience. So let’s dive in! 1. Always Do a Test Cut First…
How To Make Print Then Cut T-Shirts with Your Cricut For Beginners
If you’re looking to create custom t-shirt graphicss using your Cricut machine, the Print Then Cut method is a great option. With this technique, you can design and print your own heat transfer vinyl designs and then apply them to your shirts. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure that your…
How To Make Iron-On Transfers For T-Shirts
If you’re looking to create your own custom t-shirts, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll walk you through a beginner-friendly tutorial on how to use Cricut iron-on vinyl to make your own personalized t-shirts. Whether you have an EasyPress or a regular iron, we’ll show you the step-by-step process to achieve professional-looking…
How To Make Your Own DIY Stickers: A Step-by-Step Guide For Beginners
Making your own stickers can also be a cost-effective alternative to buying pre-made stickers. Here are some basics to keep in mind when making your own DIY stickers: Materials To make your own stickers, you will need the following materials: Sticker paper or label paper Printer Scissors or cutting machine Design software or online sticker maker…
Heat Transfer Vinyl Instructions: A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide
Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) is a type of vinyl that is cut into designs and then applied to fabric using heat and pressure and it’s a fun and versatile way to personalize fabric. The four essential steps to using heat transfer vinyl are as follows: Preparing Your Cut File Cutting the Design Weeding Applying The Vinyl…
How to Laminate Your Own DIY Printed Stickers with Laminating Sheets
https://youtu.be/diXAwUYY9jI?si=Me6jMsBVq0H4HE0Y Laminating your own DIY printed stickers is an easy and affordable way to protect your designs from wear and tear. Whether you’re creating stickers for your business or personal use, laminating sheets can help ensure that your designs stay vibrant and long-lasting. With a few simple steps, you can create professional-looking, waterproof stickers that…
Top 3 Ways To Waterproof Your Own DIY Stickers
https://youtu.be/6dc5A7V-q0E?si=3utpfH70CI2Tba2V 1. Laminating Your Stickers The easiest and most reliable method for waterproofing your own DIY stickers is to cover your stickers with a laminating sheet. These are typically made of PVC material and provide a thick and durable crystal clear coating that you can peel off, cut out, and place over top of your…
How to Use Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper
Printable Vinyl Instructions: Before you begin, it is important to note that Royal Elements printable vinyl comes in multiple varieties (glossy, matte, and clear). Matte is the most waterproof and durable, followed by clear and glossy. However, for full protection from the elements we suggest protecting your stickers by using Royal Elements laminating sheets which…
How To Use Waterslide Decal Paper (Infographic Instructions)
To get started with waterslide decal paper, you’ll need: A printer (inkjet or laser, depending on your paper type). Waterslide decal paper (compatible with your printer). Design software for creating or customizing your designs. A brush or sponge. Clear acrylic sealant. Scissors or a craft knife. A bowl of warm water. Step-by-Step Instructions For Waterslide Decal Paper:…