Custom stickers are one of the most popular Cricut projects, and for good reason. They're quick, inexpensive, and endlessly customizable. Using the Print Then Cut feature, your home printer and Cricut work together to produce professional-looking stickers in minutes.

What you'll need

  • A Cricut machine that supports Print Then Cut
  • An inkjet printer
  • Printable sticker paper (matte or glossy)
  • A LightGrip or StandardGrip mat
  • Optional: laminate sheets for waterproofing

Step 1: Design your sticker

Open Cricut Design Space and add your image or text. Stickers work best with a defined outline, so use the Offset tool to add a clean white border around each design. Flatten the layers so the machine prints the design rather than cutting it apart.

Step 2: Print then cut

Click Make It and choose Print Then Cut. Design Space sends your design to your printer, including a black registration box around the edge. This box is essential, it tells the Cricut sensor exactly where to cut, so don't trim or cover it.

Step 3: Load and cut

Place the printed sticker sheet on your mat, load it into the machine, and select your material. For a kiss cut that leaves the backing intact, choose the Sticker Paper setting. For die-cut stickers that cut all the way through, select Cardstock or a heavier setting.

Step 4: Optional laminating

To make stickers water-resistant, apply a clear laminate sheet over the printed design before cutting. This protects them from smudging and makes them durable enough for water bottles and laptops.

Pro tip: If your Cricut struggles to read the registration marks, work in bright, even lighting and avoid glossy paper glare. A matte finish scans far more reliably.

Troubleshooting tips

If cuts are off-register, recalibrate Print Then Cut in your machine settings. If the blade cuts too deep, lower the pressure or switch from die cut to kiss cut. A fresh, clean blade also makes a big difference on intricate shapes.

Once you've made your first sheet, you'll see how addictive sticker-making becomes. Try sticker sheets, planner stickers, or branded labels, the only limit is your imagination.