If you’ve ever wondered how to make stickers in Canva that are cute, personalized, and print-ready, you’re in the right place.
Let’s set the scene: it’s a rainy afternoon, your favorite drink is steaming beside you, and you’re curled up with your journal… but something’s missing.
That something? It’s the perfect sticker to complete your art journal or scrapbook page✨
Perhaps you’ve searched all over the internet for that “just right” sticker, only to come up empty-handed. Well, what if I told you that you could create your own custom stickers – bring to life whatever is in your imagination, tailored precisely to your aesthetic?
A little sticker magic. And not just any stickers – your stickers. 💛 Ones that feel like you, tell your story, and match your vibe perfectly.
That’s where Canva comes in. You can use it to create just about anything that you can imagine. So let’s get started –
🎨 Step-by-Step: How to Make Stickers in Canva
In this tutorial, I’m going to show you exactly how to make stickers in Canva that are printable, journal-friendly, and totally customized to your cozy little world.
We’ll walk through the steps to create personalized stickers perfect for journaling, scrapbooking, decorating happy mail, adding a touch of flair to your everyday items, or just embracing your inner stationery goblin! ✨
You don’t need fancy tools or an art degree – just a little inspiration, a bit of play, and this blog post! I’m about to walk you through a magical little process that feels as cozy as your favorite playlist.
Let’s get into it!
1. Canva Intro
Go to Canva.com:
Log in or create an account.
• Canva Design Size
Choose the Size:
Click “Create a Design” and set a custom size.
I like 1000 x 1000 px. This size gives you room to play with proportions while keeping your design crisp and print-friendly. It’s perfect for making printable journaling stickers, or even fun add-ons if you love to make stickers for your scrapbook pages.
Note: I’m using Canva Pro for the extra bells and whistles, but you can absolutely follow along with the free version. The free version still offers plenty of tools to create stunning stickers. Some extras, like the Canva background remover and transparent PNG, are Pro-only – but I’ll share workarounds too!
2. Canva Elements, Illustrations & Keywords
Canva has an endless variety of elements and illustrations based on every theme or idea that you can ever think of!
The problem comes with finding the exact image that is in your head. This is where ‘keywords’ come in. These are the words you use to search for your elements. You can start with a basic keyword like ‘elephant’ and then keep trying new words.
💡 You’ll get more keyword ideas once you see the image options available. For example, once I saw all the options that were available in elephant graphics, I added the keyword ‘elephant watercolor’. This specified my search even further and showed me the exact type of designs that I was looking for.
Here is a more detailed explanation of what I mean –
• How to search for Canva elements:
This is the fun part. Go to “Elements” and in the search bar type any keyword related to what you want to design.
• Canva Keyword Tips
Try keyword themes like ‘cozy’, ‘watercolor’, ‘boho’, or ‘cottagecore’ to find aesthetic vibes that suit your journaling style. Or if you have something very specific in mind, you can try exact keywords like watercolor flowers, vintage camera, watercolor teacup, botanical stamp, or vintage ticket stub.
• Identifying Canva Free v/s Paid Elements
Understand the Icons:
You’ll notice some elements have a little crown icon – that’s Canva Pro. The rest are available for free, so don’t worry. There’s a treasure trove of free ones too, and you’ll still be able to create a lot of fun stickers using free designs
3. Customizing your sticker design
Once you’ve found an image that you like, it’s time to make it truly yours. You can do this by using basic options like adjust the size and colors, but you can also try combining multiple graphics to create a whole new design.
This is what I usually do. It gives me so much more freedom to play around with the ideas in my head, and I get to create a one-of-a-kind design.
Here’s how you can do it too –
• Resize your design:
Click on elements to resize or rotate them. Drag the corners to adjust.
• Design a sticker using multiple elements:
Want to create an aesthetic scene that looks cohesive? Here are two tips
- Look for more designs from the same artist.
- Check for a collection of themed art from the same artist.
Here’s a step-by-step process for both these tips –
• Searching for Canva elements by the same artist:
You can view similar elements by the same Canva artist by clicking on the three dots next to an element. This will open the information box regarding the design. Click on the artist’s name at the top. This will take you to their personal page. You can search for more similar elements there.
• View Collection of Canva elements
Some artists create collections of similarly themed elements. This option isn’t always available, but it’s the secret to making your stickers look like a set. To look for such a collection, click on your image and click on the three dots next to it. Then scroll down and select ‘info’.
This will open a second box with more information regarding the design. Here, click on the last option called ‘View Collection’
This option is only available if the artist has created this collection for similarly themed elements. If it is available, click on it to open all the elements that the artist has added to this collection.
• Changing the order of your Canva layers:
The best way to create a professional-looking sticker is knowing how to layer different designs together. Knowing how to layer in Canva really helps create one-of-a-kind designs.
To change the order of the element layers, use the Position tool to layer elements behind or in front of others – this is especially helpful when you’re building more intricate sticker scenes.
• Combining elements into a Group:
To combine similar elements into a group, select them all and click on “Group” to move or resize them collectively.
• Flip Canva Elements
Want to flip something? Use the “Flip” option to mirror elements horizontally or vertically.
• Using the Magic Eraser tool in Canva
You can erase some parts of the element using the “Magic Eraser” tool. Just go to Edit. Choose Magic Eraser. Use the magic brush to erase your design
This is where the magic really begins, and it’s one of my favorite parts of showing you how to make stickers in Canva. It all starts with combining different elements to make something uniquely you, and the best part is that you can tweak every little detail until it feels just right.
💡Play with combinations. A teacup here, a pressed flower there… It’s like curating a visual poem.
Oh, and if you want a printable PDF with a list of 117 fun art journaling prompts, just enter your details below and I’ll email it right to you –
• Adding shadows in Canva
There are two ways to add shadows in Canva –
1. Use the Edit option
Click on the element. Go to Edit. Choose Shadows. Then select from the types of shadows available. I usually choose between “Glow” and “Drop”.
Scroll down to adjust the Blur amount, angle of the shadow, distance of the shadow from the element and the Intensity. This option is available for both Free and Premium accounts.
2. Search for “Shadows” in Canva elements
This is the second way to do this. Just go to Elements and type “Shadow” in the search bar. You’ll get a ton of options. Pick the one that looks the best with your design.
- Reducing the intensity of the shadow:
If the shadow looks too dark, then you can reduce the intensity by clicking on the Transparency option next to “Flip”. Play around with it until it looks good. - Changing the order of the shadow layer:
To make the shadow go behind your element, go to “Position” and move the Shadow layer backward.
I use both of these options to add shadows to my designs. You can choose the one that best fits your style.
5. Adding Borders & Outlines in Canva
Canva Element Tip: You can create a sticker using one single element, or build a dreamy little scene by combining a few. I like combining elements best, as that lets me create unique designs.
• Add a background shape to create a sticker
Want to avoid super skinny stickers or hard-to-cut edges? Try this:
Add an abstract or blobby shape behind your design
Keep it subtle so it doesn’t take attention away from your main design
Resize your sticker elements so they all fit within the shape
💡This trick makes it easier to cut by hand or with a cutting machine, and gives your stickers a more “packaged set” look. This makes it look clean and simple – perfect if you’re designing a themed kit or trying to figure out how to make stickers for cheap without losing quality.
💛 Tip: Combine multiple elements to craft a unique design. For example, pair a vintage typewriter with floral accents for a romantic. aesthetic.
This approach is perfect for those looking to create your own stickers for cheap, but without compromising on style.
• Adding an outline to a single object or element
Here’s how you can create an outlined sticker using a single element from Canva –
Click on the element, go to “Edit,” then “Shadows,” and select “Outline.”
Increase the size of the outline and change the color to White to turn any element into an outlined sticker that you can easily cut by hand.
• Adding an outline to a group of elements
1. If you want to create an outlined sticker using a group of elements, you’ll have to download it first and re-upload to Canva
2. Create or copy-paste your group of elements onto a new page and download it
3. Select a transparent background. This is only available in the premium version. If you’re using a free plan, then download the image and remove the background from free websites that remove the background from images
4. Now go to Uploads and upload the same design back to Canva. Then follow the same outlining process as earlier
6. Downloading Your Design
Ready to print your beauties?
Click “Share” → “Download”
File type: PNG or PDF Print (for highest quality)
Check “Transparent Background” in PNG file type (if you’re using Canva Pro)
Now you know exactly how to print stickers from Canva. I recommend printing on sticker paper or full-sheet labels, cutting them out with scissors or a Cricut if you’re fancy. Either way, they’ll look adorable.
💌 Bonus Tips for a Sticker Obsession!
- Now that you’ve gone through this tutorial, you can totally design your own stickers and even turn them into printables to share with friends (or sell on Etsy!)
- Try making sets like “weather icons,” “tea time doodles,” or just create simple aesthetic stickers in Canva to give your journal spreads personality
- If you’re into card-making, everything you just learned also works for making beautiful cards , especially if you’re wondering how to make cards for scrapbook projects. ✨
- Thinking of turning your hobby into a side hustle? Congrats, you just learned the basics of how to create stickers online, and yep, you can totally create your own stickers cheap without splurging.
So that’s it – you’ve officially learned how to design stickers in Canva and print them like a pro. I hope this process felt creative, relaxing, and just a little bit magical. Making your own journal or scrapbooking stickers is one of those quiet joys that makes everything feel more you.
So go ahead, design some cute things, get messy, and stick with what brings you joy.
And if you post your creations on Instagram or Pinterest, tag me @themerrygoldproject, I’d love to see what you make. 💛
FAQs
How do I make stickers in Canva?
To make stickers in Canva, start by selecting a custom canvas size suitable for your sticker dimensions. Utilize Canva’s extensive library of elements, shapes, and text to design your sticker. Once satisfied, download your design in PNG format for printing or digital use
Can I create printable stickers for journals using Canva?
Absolutely! Canva offers various templates and design elements perfect for journaling and creating printable stickers. Customize them to fit your journal’s theme and print them on sticker paper for a personalized touch.
What's the best way to add a border in Canva?
To add a border in Canva, select your element or image, click on Edit Image, then choose Shadows, and select Outline. Adjust the thickness and color to your preference. This method works for elements and images. To add an outline to text, use the Effects tab and select Outline.
How can I design stickers for scrapbooking in Canva?
You can easily design stickers for scrapbooking in Canva by choosing from Canva’s wide range of vintage or themed elements, layering them creatively, and ensuring they fit the scrapbook’s aesthetic. Search specific keywords like scrapbook, cottagecore, watercolor, vintage, etc.
Is it possible to make sticker outlines in Canva?
Yes! To make sticker outlines in Canva, for images or elements, use the Edit Image tab, select Shadows, and then choose Outline. Adjust the settings to achieve the desired outline effect. For text, go to the Effects tab and select Outline.
Can I create my own stickers cheaply using Canva?
Yes, Canva allows you to create your own stickers cheap by using free elements and templates. Once designed, print them at home or through affordable printing services.
How do I layer elements in Canva for sticker designs?
To layer in Canva, select the elements you want to arrange, right-click, and choose ‘Layer’ and then ‘Send to back’ or ‘Bring to front’ as needed. This helps in creating depth and dimension in your sticker designs.
What's the process to make stickers for journals in Canva?
If you’re creating stickers for journals, start by choosing a custom size that fits your journal pages. Next, in the Elements section, search using themed keywords like cottagecore, florals, or scrapbook. Use Canva’s design tools to customize. Once done, print and cut them out for use.
Can I design aesthetic stickers in Canva?
Yes! Canva’s extensive library allows you to design aesthetic stickers by combining pastel colors, minimalist elements, and trendy fonts to match your desired aesthetic. Search in the Elements section using themed keywords like cottagecore, florals, or scrapbook.
How do I use Canva's background remover for stickers?
With Canva Pro, you can use the Background Remover tool to eliminate backgrounds from images, making them perfect for sticker designs. Simply upload your image, select it, and click on ‘Background Remover’ in the top tool bar.
Is it possible to create transparent PNG stickers in Canva?
Yes, when downloading your design, select the PNG format and check the ‘Transparent background’ option. This ensures your sticker has no background, making it versatile for various uses. This option is only available for Premium users and is a Canva Pro feature.
How can I make cards for scrapbooking in Canva?
To make cards for scrapbooking, choose a card template in Canva, customize it with your desired graphics and text, and print it out to include in your scrapbook.
Can I design stickers on Canva for free?
Absolutely! Canva offers a free version with numerous elements and templates, allowing you to design stickers without any cost. However, some premium features may require a subscription.
How do I print stickers from Canva?
After designing your sticker, click on the ‘Download’ button, choose the desired format (preferably PNG or PDF Print), and print it on sticker paper. Ensure your printer settings match the paper type for optimal results.
What's the advantage of using Canva Pro for sticker designs?
Canva Pro offers advanced features like the Background Remover, Magic Eraser, and Magic Grab tools, access to premium elements, and the ability to resize designs easily, enhancing your sticker creation process.
Can I create stickers online using Canva?
Yes, Canva is an online platform that allows you to create stickers online for free without the need for any software downloads. Simply sign up, design, and download your creations.
How do I design stickers in Canva for beginners?
For beginners, start with a sticker template. On the Canva home page, go to Templates and search for ‘Stickers’. Choose your favorite template and customize it using Canva’s drag-and-drop tools. If you don’t feel confident, explore tutorials to enhance your skills. Practice makes perfect!
Can I make journal stickers in Canva?
Definitely! Canva provides tools and elements to design journal stickers tailored to your journaling needs, from daily planners to mood trackers. Choose from Templates or create your own from scratch.
How do I create sticker outlines for grouped elements in Canva?
To add an outline to a group of elements, first download the group as a PNG with a transparent background. Re-upload it to Canva, and then select the image, go to ‘Edit’, Shadows and then apply the ‘Outline’ effect. Adjust the outline size and select the outline color as White.
Is it possible to make stickers on Canva without any design experience?
Yes! Canva’s user-friendly interface and vast template library make it easy for anyone, regardless of design experience, to create stunning stickers.
