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How to Make Matte Printable Vinyl Stickers

Matte printable vinyl stickers are a trendy and versatile way to create custom designs for personal or business use.

Whether you’re looking to make stickers for your planner, brand, or small business, this guide will show you how to achieve professional-quality results at home.

In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of making matte stickers using scissors or a cutting machine like the Cricut Explore Air 2.

Materials You’ll Need:

Before you start, gather the following materials:

  • Matte Printable Vinyl Sheets
    High-quality vinyl sheets like those from Royal Elements ensure your stickers are durable and vibrant.

  • Printer (Inkjet or Laser)
    Both inkjet and laser printers work well for printing on matte vinyl. In this tutorial, we used an HP DeskJet Inkjet and an HP LaserJet Pro.

  • Scissors
    Perfect for beginners or anyone on a budget.

  • Cutting Machine (Optional)
    A Cricut Explore Air 2 or similar machine is ideal for small sticker business owners or those looking to save time.

  • Design Software (Canva)
    Canva is a beginner-friendly, free online tool perfect for designing your custom stickers.

Step 1: Create Your Designs in Canva

designing stickers for printing in canva

The first step in making matte printable vinyl stickers is designing your stickers. We used Canva, a free, user-friendly design platform that’s perfect for beginners and experienced designers alike.

  1. Open Canva: Sign up or log in to Canva and create a new design.
  2. Set Dimensions: For best results, use the dimensions of your printable vinyl sheet (e.g., 8.5 x 11 inches).
  3. Design Your Stickers: Use Canva’s library of shapes, text, images, and templates to create your stickers. You can also upload your own images or logos.
  4. Add Cut Lines (Optional): If you’re using a cutting machine, include a thin outline around each sticker to help guide the cuts.
  5. Download the File: Export your designs as a high-resolution PDF or PNG file.

Pro Tip: Save your designs in multiple sizes to create sticker sheets with a mix of large and small stickers.

Step 2: Print Your Stickers on Matte Printable Vinyl

feeding matte printable vinyl sticker paper into laser printer

Once your designs are ready, it’s time to print:

  1. Load the Matte Vinyl Sheet: Place the vinyl sheet into your printer tray. Ensure the printable (matte) side is facing up.
  2. Adjust Printer Settings: Select the highest quality print option in your printer settings. Choose “Matte Photo Paper” or a similar setting for best results.
  3. Print Your Design: Let the printed sheet dry completely to prevent smudges or ink running.

Both inkjet and laser printers work for printable vinyl. We used an HP DeskJet Inkjet and an HP LaserJet Pro in our video to show that either option produces excellent results.

Step 3: Cut Your Stickers

printed matte printable vinyl frog stickers and royal elements

Now comes the fun part: cutting your stickers! You can either use scissors for a simple DIY approach or a cutting machine for more precise results.

Option 1: Cutting Stickers by Hand (Scissors)

  • Carefully cut out each design, leaving a small border around the edge if you want a classic sticker look.
  • This method is great for beginners or hobbyists who enjoy hands-on crafting.

Option 2: Using a Cutting Machine (Cricut Explore Air 2)

  • Upload your design file into Cricut Design Space and adjust the cut settings for vinyl.
  • Use the “Print Then Cut” feature to create perfectly cut stickers.
  • This option is perfect for small business owners or anyone making large quantities of stickers.

Pro Tip: If using a cutting machine, ensure your designs have an outline or cut line for better precision.

Step 4: Peel and Stick

peeling matte printable vinyl stickers of frogs

Once your stickers are cut, it’s time to peel and stick them! Follow these tips to ensure a smooth application:

  1. Carefully Peel the Sticker: Start from one corner of the cut sticker and gently peel it away from the backing paper. If the edges feel stuck, flex the backing slightly to release the sticker.

  2. Apply to a Clean Surface: Stickers adhere best to clean, smooth surfaces. Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry completely before applying your sticker.

  3. Smooth Out Air Bubbles: Press down firmly on the sticker, smoothing out any air bubbles with your fingers or a soft cloth.

Your matte stickers are now ready to decorate water bottles, laptops, notebooks, or even product packaging! This final step is satisfying and ensures your stickers look their best.

matte printable vinyl stickers of frogs

Optional: Add Lamination for Durability

If you’d like to make your stickers waterproof or scratch-resistant, you can laminate them before cutting. Simply apply a clear laminating sheet over the printed vinyl to add an extra layer of protection. This is especially useful for stickers that will be exposed to water, like on tumblers or outdoor surfaces.

Why Choose Matte Vinyl Stickers?

Matte stickers have a unique, non-glossy finish that gives them a professional and understated look. They’re perfect for branding, journaling, or adding a touch of creativity to your belongings. With Royal Elements’ matte printable vinyl, you’ll enjoy:

  • Easy Printing: Designed for compatibility with both inkjet and laser printers.
  • Durability: Long-lasting results for both personal and commercial use.
  • Versatility: Create custom stickers for any purpose.
matte printable vinyl frog sticker on water bottle

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a laser printer with printable vinyl?
Yes! Both inkjet and laser printers are compatible with matte printable vinyl. Be sure to check the product details to confirm compatibility before printing.

2. Do I need a cutting machine to make stickers?
No! While a cutting machine like the Cricut Explore Air 2 makes the process faster and more precise, scissors work perfectly for small-scale projects or beginners.

3. How do I make my stickers waterproof?
Add a laminating sheet to protect your stickers from water and scratches. This extra layer ensures durability and enhances their appearance.

Watch Our Tutorial Video

For a complete walkthrough, check out our YouTube video:
How to Make Matte Printable Vinyl Stickers

In this video, we demonstrate the process step-by-step, including using scissors and sharing tips for cutting machines like the Cricut Explore Air 2.

Final Thoughts

Making matte printable vinyl stickers is a fun and creative way to express yourself or build a small business. With the right tools and materials, you can achieve professional results in the comfort of your own home. Explore Royal Elements’ premium-quality matte vinyl sheets and other craft supplies to get started today!

Ready to create your own stickers?
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