Thinking about starting your own sticker business? Whether you’re an artist looking to bring your designs to life or you want to stock ready-made stickers in your shop, we know how overwhelming it can be to get started. That’s why we put together this easy-to-follow guide packed with helpful tips to turn your sticker dreams into reality. Let’s dive in!
7 Simple Steps to Starting a Sticker Business:
1. Choose Your Niche & Identify Your Target Market
Who’s your audience? Are you designing hippie stickers for college students? Sports stickers for athletes? The more specific your niche, the easier it is to build a strong brand, choose products, and create a solid marketing plan.
2. Name Your Store & Design a Logo
Your name and logo set the tone for your brand. Keep your logo clean and memorable—it should clearly show what you do at a glance. When you’re ready, order logo stickers to brand your packaging and get your name out there!
3. Write Your Business Plan
Even a simple outline helps. Your business plan should include your goals, audience, product list, marketing strategies, and budget. Start small—you can build from here!
4. Apply for Permits & Finalize Business Details
Start by choosing your business structure and registering with your state. This step is essential if you want to open a business bank account.
Here are five common business types to consider:
- Sole Proprietorship: Easy to set up. No legal distinction between you and your business.
- General Partnership: You share responsibilities and decisions with another partner.
- S Corporation: Business profits or losses pass through to owners and aren't taxed at the corporate level.
- C Corporation: Offers strong liability protection and is a good option for businesses looking to scale big.
- LLC (Limited Liability Company): Protects your personal assets while keeping your tax structure flexible. Popular among small business owners.
Once you’re registered, open your business bank account and set up tax info. You may also need a resale certificate (sometimes called a vendor’s license), depending on your state. And consider getting business insurance to protect your work.
5. Create Your Sticker Designs
Now comes the fun part—designing your stickers!
Already an artist? Upload your artwork on our custom stickers page. Choose from durable options like holographic, clear, or classic vinyl. All our stickers come laminated, waterproof, and built to last.
Not a designer? No problem. We’ve got thousands of ready-made stickers to choose from, or use our design tool with Shutterstock access to create something custom with ease.
Now, Choose Your Packaging:
Want your stickers retail-ready? Add retail packaging to your order. Each set comes with a poly bag, cardstock backing, and application instructions—perfect for store displays or professional shipping.
6. Order Your Stickers & Set Your Prices
Now that your designs are ready, it's time to order and set prices. If you’re selling wholesale, factor in a 40–50% margin for retailers. If you’re selling direct to customers, you have more flexibility. The average 9 sq. in. sticker sells for $3–$5. And remember: buying in bulk = bigger profits per sticker.
7. Start Selling & Marketing
Build a website using platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Big Cartel. They offer built-in shopping tools and are great for beginners. You can also sell on marketplaces like Etsy.
Stock up on shipping materials (mailers, tape, labels, etc.) and consider branding your packaging with custom roll labels or sticker sheets of your logo. Tossing in a freebie logo sticker? Great move for brand recognition!
Don't skip social media—it’s one of the best ways to grow your brand and connect with customers. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram help you advertise, analyze performance, and build community.
Want to sell in stores? Try local boutiques and gift shops. Bring samples and wholesale pricing when you visit or reach out via email.
Follow us and sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop! We’re always adding new sticker materials, accessories, and tools to make running your sticker biz easier.
Want expert insight? Watch our CEO break it down in just five steps:
