WHAT YOU NEED TO START A STICKER BUSINESS • How I Started My Sticker Shop On A Budget 2022

Summary

In this video, Lisa shares the five must-have items you need to start a successful sticker shop. Drawing from six years of experience, she covers essential tools such as high-quality sticker paper, the right printer, a reliable sticker cutter, effective packaging materials, and the importance of business cards. Lisa also offers tips on where to find affordable, top-notch supplies, and shares her personal recommendations for creating both regular and foiled stickers. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade your equipment, this video is a helpful guide for aspiring sticker shop owners.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sticker paper is a must-have for starting a sticker shop. Initially, cheaper options like Online Labels may suffice, but upgrading to higher-quality paper like weatherproof matte sticker paper is essential for a professional product.
• 🖨️ The printer choice is important for color accuracy. While many businesses avoid sharing this, a Canon Pixma or inkjet printer is recommended for vibrant color prints, though laser printers are required for foiled stickers.
• 💰 Ink cartridges can be costly, but third-party or off-brand cartridges from Amazon are a cost-effective solution. Refiling your own ink tanks can also save money in the long run.
• ✂️ A cutting machine is crucial. The Silhouette Portrait is a popular choice for beginners due to its affordability and ease of use, despite the learning curve.
• 📦 Packaging is key for delivering your product safely. Cellophane bags with adhesive seals are a good choice for protecting stickers during transit.
• 🖼️ Business cards not only serve as a promotional tool but also help keep your stickers flat during shipping. Many shops use Vistaprint for these.
• 📬 When shipping stickers, consider the type of mailer. Bubble mailers are lightweight and cost-effective but don't provide as much protection as rigid cardboard mailers.
• 💡 Custom packaging, while fun and on-brand, can be expensive. It's recommended to wait until your shop is established before investing in highly customized packaging.
• 🔄 Online Labels and Sheet Labels offer free samples of sticker paper, allowing you to test and choose the best paper for your printer and needs.
• 🧑‍🏫 Foiled stickers require specific techniques and equipment, including a laser printer and special processes. For those interested in foiling, online courses are available for learning the process.

Q & A

What is the most important item to start a sticker shop?

The most important item to start a sticker shop is high-quality sticker paper. It's essential for producing great stickers and ensuring a positive customer experience.

Why did Lisa switch from cheap labels to higher-quality sticker paper?

Lisa initially used inexpensive sticker paper, but after a year, she switched to higher-quality paper because the cheaper paper didn't provide the best quality for printing, especially for color accuracy and foiling.

What type of sticker paper does Lisa recommend for most sticker shops?

Lisa recommends the **Online Labels Weatherproof Matte Sticker Paper**, also known as **Premium Matte** or **Unicorn Sticker Paper**. It's highly durable, has a great finish, and is a favorite among customers.

Where can you get samples of different sticker papers?

You can get free samples of various sticker papers from both **Online Labels** and **Sheet Labels**. This allows you to try different options and see which one works best with your printer.

What printer does Lisa recommend for printing stickers?

Lisa recommends using the **Canon Pixma** line of printers for color accuracy and quality. The **Canon Pro 100** is what she used, but it's discontinued. She suggests any Canon Pixma model for reliable inkjet printing.

Should I use an inkjet or laser printer for printing stickers?

If you're printing color stickers, an **inkjet printer** is the better option, as it produces better color results. However, for foiled stickers, you’ll need a **laser printer** to achieve the foiling effect.

How can you save money on ink for your printer?

To save money on ink, you can buy **third-party ink cartridges** or **refill your own ink tanks**. This helps reduce the cost compared to purchasing original ink cartridges.

What sticker cutter does Lisa use, and why is it recommended for beginners?

Lisa uses the **Silhouette Portrait** cutter, which is affordable and works well for beginners. Despite a learning curve, it offers great performance for cutting stickers at a reasonable price.

What are the best packaging materials for shipping stickers?

For packaging, **cellophane bags** with adhesive seals are ideal for protecting stickers from damage. **Business cards** are also useful for promoting your shop, and **bubble mailers** or **rigid cardboard mailers** are good for shipping. Lisa recommends custom **foldable envelopes** for a personal touch but notes they can be expensive.

Why are cellophane bags recommended for sticker packaging?

Cellophane bags are recommended because they protect stickers from water damage during shipping. The adhesive seal on the bag ensures a secure closure, making it a great option for safe sticker delivery.