Trace: Best FREE AI background remover

Tired of struggling with complicated software or spending hours manually removing backgrounds from your images and photos? Well, the answer to your prayers is here, and it's called [Trace by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "best free background remover").

![remove bg free cat photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5c3e3998-b8a8-4528-80cd-d78d2acee469)

[Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover called Trace") is a free, user-friendly app that makes removing backgrounds from images a breeze. It utilizes advanced A.I. technology to accurately and quickly remove backgrounds, leaving you with a clean cutout of your desired subject.

It's pretty straightforward. Simply upload your image and Trace will do the rest, saving you time and energy!

![free background removal from photos with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c5dcf052-0dbe-4e21-a8f7-2b21961cc645)

The best thing about Trace, is that it's always getting better. Unlike some other background remover tools, we keep updating our AI algorithm to make sure it's the best it can be. This means that when you use Trace, you're using some of the newest and coolest technology out there. We think that's pretty cool in itself! 

Besides removing backgrounds, Trace also has the ability to easily make transparent PNGs, perfect for use on websites, social media, and even print materials. Use them however you like, including as:

- __Social media graphics__: Transparent PNGs can be used as overlay graphics on social media posts, giving your content a polished and professional look.

- __Custom product packaging__: Trace can remove the background from your images and photos, allowing you to create custom packaging for your business.

- __Website graphics__: Your transparent PNGs can also go into logos, icons, or other graphics on your website.

- __[Custom face stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/face-stickers "custom face photo stickers")__: Trace can remove the background from a photo of your face, allowing you to create a custom sticker of yourself or a loved one. These can be used on laptops, water bottles, phone cases, and more.

- __Print materials__: Trace can remove backgrounds from images for use in print materials such as brochures, [flyers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-flyers "custom flyer printing"), and business cards.

With Trace, creating transparent PNGs has never been easier. The tool's advanced technology allows for accurate and efficient background removal, leaving you with a perfect cutout of your desired subject. So, whether you're looking to create custom face stickers or elevate your brand's social media presence, Trace has got you covered.

But don't just take our word for it — give Trace a try for yourself! You'll be amazed at how easy and efficient background removal can be. Say goodbye to frustrating background removal apps and hello to perfect cutouts with Trace by Sticker Mule.

Try it now at: [https://www.stickermule.com/trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover") and see how Trace can help you save time and energy on your image editing needs.

<ButtonCta text="Try Trace for Free" href="https://www.stickermule.com/trace" />

Meet Trace, our free background remover, that could very well be the best bg remover on the internet. Unlike most, we continually improve our AI background remover to make sure we provide the best tool available.

How to make custom photo buttons

Have you ever wondered how to transform your favorite photos into wearable art? Look no further, because Sticker Mule has the answer: [personalized photo buttons](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/photo-buttons "custom photo pins and buttons")! These trendy photo button pins can be a great way to showcase your favorite memories, promote your brand, or even spread a message.

![custom photo faces buttons](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/11b9fc11-7fef-4cb9-899e-8b7ab506dc51)

## Creating your personalized photo buttons

Making buttons with pictures has never been easier thanks to [Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/ "print stickers")'s streamlined process. From the comfort of your home, you can design and order your custom photo buttons in minutes. Here's how:

1. Choose the size and quantity of your buttons.
2. Upload your photo or design. Don't worry, we accept a wide range of file formats.
3. Review the proof sent by our team. We won't print until you're 100% satisfied with the design.
4. Once approved, we'll start the production process, aiming to ship within just a few days.
5. With Sticker Mule, your imagination is the limit. Our [free online design tool](https://www.stickermule.com/studio "free online designer for printed products") allows you to create circular designs just the way you want them.

## Why choose customized photo buttons?

![custom buttons of dogs and cats photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a1b88593-f60b-4f6d-98fe-1ecb43d2f644)

Photo pin buttons serve as a unique way to preserve and share memories. Unlike a traditional photo frame, a button pin can travel with you wherever you go. Custom photo buttons are also an excellent promotional tool for businesses, artists, bands, and non-profit organizations. 

Unique buttons even recently helped [the internet reunite a long-lost jacket](https://kstp.com/kstp-news/local-news/internet-helps-woman-reunite-with-stolen-jacket-and-15-years-of-memories/ "women gets reunited with jacket with custom photo buttons") with its original owner just by the buttons it had on it! 

## Top-notch durability

At Sticker Mule, we guarantee durable and vibrant personalized buttons with photos. We use only the finest materials and printing technology, ensuring your custom photo buttons withstand the test of time.

## A world of possibilities

![different types of custom pins of family photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7acadbb2-c7a6-4f23-a44c-63c6b60d9af6)

[Customized photo buttons](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/photo-buttons "photos into custom buttons") are versatile, and perfect for various occasions. Whether for a wedding, corporate event, charity run, or just for fun, personalized photo buttons always add a unique touch. 

Sticker Mule is here to make your journey of creating customized photo buttons an exciting and rewarding experience. So why wait? Dive into the world of personalized photo buttons today!

<ButtonCta text="Make your own custom photo buttons today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/photo-buttons" />

Make custom photo pin buttons easy with this guide on how to create personalized buttons from images, photos, logos, or more!

From photos to buttons: Make custom photo buttons easy

How to make custom water bottle labels easy free online template

Welcome to your complete guide on how to create [custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels "custom water bottle labels"). In this post, we'll explore two main methods: using an online service, specifically [Sticker Mule's Studio water bottle label editor](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/search?group=all&q=water+bottle+label "free water bottle label templates"), and a do-it-yourself approach with store-bought labels and a home printer.

![custom printed water bottle labels](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ac80f7f4-4e39-4ebf-953a-c614020f0dfc)

## The importance of custom water bottle labels

Custom water bottle labels can add a unique touch to any event, be it a birthday party, a corporate event, or a promotional campaign. Not only do they add a personal feel, but they also serve as a branding opportunity that leaves a lasting impression. However, it's important to choose label materials that are waterproof and printed a bit differently than normal [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers"). 

Either way, the first thing to do is to choose the type of custom water bottle label you'd like to create. Keep in mind the importance of deciding on the label dimensions, as that'll directly impact how your label will fit and look on your water bottle. 

For a standard water bottle, there are two primary styles of label wrapping: __full wrap__ and __half wrap__.

- A __full wrap__ label covers the entire circumference of the bottle, providing a large canvas for your design and information. This option is ideal when you have more content to display or prefer a completely customized look.

- A  __half wrap__ label, on the other hand, covers only a portion of the bottle's circumference. It's a great choice when you want to maintain some of the bottle's original look or when your design is simple and concise.

In the image below, we provide recommended dimensions for both full wrap and half wrap labels on a standard water bottle.

Remember, it's not just about fitting the label onto the bottle, but also about ensuring your design and information are displayed effectively and attractively.

![water bottle label size recommendations for printing](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/63ed44fe-ee70-4f20-ac17-5ab03a3ced77)

Of course, while these are recommended dimensions, you may need to adjust them slightly depending on the specific size and shape of your water bottle. Always measure your bottles before finalizing your label dimensions.

### Method 1: Using an online service (Sticker Mule)

![screenshot of sticker mule water bottle template online editor](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b63dbaf3-dea4-46df-85bf-6ea8420ef842)

Creating [custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels "make custom water bottle labels") has never been easier thanks to online services like Sticker Mule's Studio. All you need to do is visit our collection of [free online templates for custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/search?group=all&q=water+bottle+label "free water bottle templates online"), choose your preferred design, and customize it as you please. 

The benefits of this method are numerous. For one, you'll get professional-looking, waterproof labels that can withstand pretty much anything life throws at them.

Here are some sample designs for a little bit of inspiration.

![custom water bottle label design example](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e351fa67-2400-47a6-86c9-2da82a950206)

![bottle for water label design for bbq](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/08bd0b3c-1ed6-48ea-b73c-3e36837bdc05)

![custom clear water bottle labels for parties](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/17e40864-61b1-49d3-bb73-c789800bb794)

### Method 2: DIY with store-bought labels and a home printer

If you prefer the DIY route, you can create your labels using [store-bought labels](https://www.avery.com/category/usage/water-bottle-labels/ "avery water bottle labels") and a home printer. This method, though a little more hands-on, can also yield satisfactory results if done right. Here is a step-by-step YouTube video that does a great job explaining the process:

<YouTubeVideo videoId="biJqNhTzjgk" />

However, it's worth noting that the DIY method comes with its limitations. The labels aren't usually waterproof and the print quality won’t look as professional on normal printers. 

## Cost comparison

When it comes to costs, it might be surprising to find that both methods come out nearly even. The DIY method might seem cost-effective upfront, but when you factor in the time spent and the potential trial and error involved, along with the costs of ink and special label paper, you might find that Sticker Mule offers better value for your money.

## Conclusion

[Custom water bottle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels "personalized water bottle labels") are a fun and creative way to personalize events and promote your brand. Whether you choose to use an online service like Sticker Mule or go the DIY route with store-bought labels and a home printer, the end result will be uniquely yours. We hope this guide has been helpful and encourages you to choose the method that best fits your needs and budget.

<ButtonCta text="Create your own water bottle labels today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/water-bottle-labels" />

Creating your own custom water bottle labels for parties, events, and businesses can be an easy way to spread brand awareness. Find two easy ways to make custom bottle labels in no time in this blog post.

5 things to consider before making custom logo t-shirts

How can I  stand out? That is the one big question that defines every marketing effort out there. Ad copy, logos, branding, influencer endorsements — it's all **a continuous quest for visibility**. 

![custom logo t-shirts printing tips and tricks](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/655ccce9-3377-466e-a8f4-0538dbb1e925)

Sometimes, though, the answer is a lot simpler. Instead of complicated ad strategies, keep it simple with some physical merchandise. Instead of just creating TikToks, create some [custom logo t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts") to wear in videos and promote later.

Branding via t-shirts (which you can both sell and give away, according to your strategy) is a time-tested marketing strategy. And far from being outdated in our digital age, it's made even **more relevant** in contrast with the overabundance of virtual content.

You just need to go about it the right way and look at the brands that had success with their t-shirt marketing.

## 1) Understand your brand

Custom t-shirts can be a wonderful way to gain visibility and convert a casual buyer into a loyal one. But there are a couple of things you need to get right.

First, know your identity. **The best design is born out of understanding what your brand is all about.** What do you stand for, what are your values? Do you have a mission? These are the elements that give real power and recognition to a brand name.

Second, be consistent. Think you have a compelling message? Stick to it and let it shine throughout your marketing style. 

### Case in point: The Hot Lips logo

![rolling stones logos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7879d958-20cf-40f4-9448-8e1e942c4119)

For an example of what we're talking about, look no further than the Rolling Stones' tongue and lips logo. Simple, but powerful, [their logo became immediately associated](https://americansongwriter.com/the-story-behind-the-famous-tongue-and-lips-rolling-stones-logo/ "history of the rolling stones logo") with the rebellious rock-'n'-roll culture of the '70s, and remains to this day a symbol of the band's timeless appeal.

## 2) Choose the right design elements

To get the best results, you can't overlook the importance of proper design. Give the proper attention to each design element to make sure you make the most of your t-shirt advertising bid.

### Positioning

For your logo to be clearly visible, you should opt for the top center or the upper right corner. There's a reason those are the most common positions for custom logo t-shirts — there your logo will attract the eye and be easy to see.

### Color

Our mind [instinctively associates emotions with different colors](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7027086/), which is just part of the reason they're so important in design. Bright red or orange? That's energetic and vibrant. Earthier or paler tones of brown and blue — that's a subdued, controlled feel. So besides fitting your logo t-shirt design to your overall brand style and vibe, keep in mind that colors have their own language.

### Font

We've looked at [how fonts matter in your poster or flyer design](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/what-is-the-easiest-font-to-read-on-posters-and-flyers), and it goes without saying the same is true for [custom logo t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts"). The right font will go a long way toward setting the entire tone for how people perceive your brand: professional and focused, playful and creative, conventional, out-of-the-box, and so on.

### Size

If your design has written content such as your brand name or motto, too small a size can impact legibility. On the other hand, bigger isn't always better; there is a right size where your design will both grab the attention and be instantly recognizable. 

If you're not sure which size is best, it may help to print out your design in different sizes on paper sheets. Place the sheets one at a time on top of a regular t-shirt and check how it looks from different distances — doing this will quickly tell you what size you should be going for.


### Case in point: Hard Rock Cafe

![hard rock cafe logo on an orange background](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8413fa60-165e-4aed-8490-f8ea42619f81)
*Alan Aldridge, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons*

[Take a look at that classic, oh-so-familiar emblem](https://shop.hardrock.com/tees/mens-classic-logo-tee/0889382316677.html) from your favorite rock-themed restaurant chain. Designed by British graphic artist Alan Aldridge, the logo (and subsequently, the tee) was such a huge success that the brand never had to look back or think to upgrade it: in fact, you can now buy this "piece of history" of a t-shirt just the way it was back in the '70s.

The design is bare — two colors, two fonts, and one geometric symbol. But its effectiveness is a clear argument for the timeless value of well-thought-out simplicity.

## 3) Print quality

You are stamping your brand on a physical product people will take home and associate with your name. So for the love of whatever matters to you, don't be cheap. Getting your brand linked with the idea of "terrible quality swag" is hardly a winning marketing move.

**What you want is to make sure your loyal customers take home a garment they can be proud of and wear for years to come**.

With that in mind, steer away from the many printing companies that offer cheaper, screen printing services that have a flatter, low-quality look. Opt instead for Sticker Mule or another company that uses direct-to-garment printing — a digital process that prints sharper, higher-quality, higher-DPI designs that really come alive on your tee.

## 4) Consider wearability

![a person choosing between different custom logo t-shirts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/cf07f9c4-eaab-46a1-8e36-e19bf88ccf04)

You want others to wear your tees out and about, and for that comfort and overall wearability are key.

That's what we make our own t-shirts for. They're printed on 100% ring-spun cotton and are unisex-shaped. Our buyers find them super comfy — just [see the reviews for yourself! ](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts)

Depending on your marketing plan, **it may also be a good idea to give your t-shirt a little bit of extra personalization**. For instance, people will proudly wear your custom logo t-shirt to display a location they've traveled to, a niche hobby interest they have, or a funny saying. 

Giving people an extra reason to wear your tee is never a bad idea, as long as it fits in with your overall branding and company values and style.

## 5) Determine your distribution strategy

Once you have your t-shirt design figured out, it's time to decide on a distribution strategy. You can:

- **Sell them as regular merchandise.** Even if your main product is not in the apparel category, you can offer t-shirts as part of a larger branded merchandise effort on your website or physical store. Loyal customers are always on the lookout for swag from brands they love.
- **Use them as rewards.** Add them as a quality freebie when a buyer places a large order — this can come as a nice surprise and will encourage repeat orders and loyal customers.
- **Give them away!** Social media giveaways are a fantastic way to get people talking about your brand. You can add your tees as a low-tier giveaway item or even as the main giveaway itself — all up to you.

Or just combine these and other distribution strategies according to what fits your business model best. Here, too, we can look for inspiration from the two famous names we mentioned above:

- **Rolling Stones:** Tongue-and-lips logo t-shirts were sold at concerts and other events, as well as [featuring prominently on their website](https://therollingstonesshop.co.uk/collections/t-shirt), making them into a kind of collectible promotional item that further connects owners to the brand.
- **Hard Rock Cafe:** The chain has retail stores at popular tourist locations where tees are sold as souvenirs. The brand is also known to use its merchandise in [limited edition offerings](https://shop.hardrock.com/pins/limited-edition-pins), adding a sense of exclusivity to the purchase. 

## Conclusion

Iconic names such as The Rolling Stones and Hard Rock Cafe are just some of the more famous examples that bring our point home. But since the [t-shirt became popular](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/the-evolution-of-t-shirts-a-decade-by-decade-style-trend-journey), companies of all sizes have been successful with this straightforward promotion strategy.

Keep in mind the requirements of a good design, of quality, of wearability. Understand your brand and plan an effective distribution campaign. Do all of that and you, too, can join the club of successful custom logo t-shirt promotion.

And with such prestigious members, who wouldn't want that?

Start printing your own [custom logo t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirt printing") through Sticker Mule today!

<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom t-shirt today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts" />


Custom logo shirts can be a great way to make your brand more recognizable. Find out the 5 things you need to consider before making t-shirts with your company's logo on it.

Stickers that sparkle ✨ Glitter stickers are now available!

While some people don’t like the number 13, we're super excited to have fulfilled our customers' needs for 13 amazing years. Sticker Mule was formed to be the best way to [print stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/) online and is now one of the world’s leaders in all online printing. It's been a fun ride, and that's what we're all about: good old-fashioned fun.

I mean, what could be more fun than making custom stickers as a business? And not just. Posters, decals, labels, packaging tape, keychains — our product line is constantly expanding. 

And guess what, now there's even more fun on the horizon with our newest product: [custom glitter stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers "custom printed glitter stickers")!

<YouTubeVideo videoId="WYQQZKZRoSg" />

These sprightly little fellas are the sticker equivalent of popping a confetti cannon at a lively party — they tone up the fun-o-meter a couple of notches and make everyone smile. 

Want to be part of our product launch? Then let's find out what our glitter stickers are all about.

### Why glitter stickers?

![why choose custom glitter stickers that sparkle](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/30be1093-1266-4643-8360-69679b6e7d2d)

Over the past decade, sticker marketing became a thing when businesses began trying different, more cost-effective ways to advertise. Inexpensive and easily shareable, stickers were the perfect solution. Now businesses all over the world add free logos or brand stickers to their custom orders as a way to form a positive connection with buyers and help them spread the word.

As for glitter, it hardly needs an introduction. Earlier associated with glam rock and fashion subcultures, glitter has since gone mainstream, and for good reason. It's a great way to add a sparkle of friendliness to just about any product or brand.

Glitter stickers are a surefire way to make your custom art, brand logo, or even pet picture shine. Slap them on a car or laptop and watch how they capture every ray of light — and quite a few smiles too.

### Benefits of custom glitter stickers

![vinyl glitter stickers of a mule with unicorn](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/022580ea-f351-454c-b70c-1d23656e3c62)

One of the best things about our glitter stickers is how incredibly customizable they are. You can order them in all shapes and sizes; we print them circle, rectangle, and square, as well as just about any die-cut format. With our very thorough (and very free!) proofing process, you get to edit your art and printing specifications until your stickers sparkle just the way you want them.

Also, they are Sticker Mule stickers, and if you've been with us for some time, you know that means quality. 

Printed in durable vinyl, our glitter stickers are made to stand the test of weather and water, sunlight and smog, dust, and detergent. They really kind of just stick around, looking as sparkly and new as ever.

All this means that if you want to harness the scintillating visibility and recognition that glitter stickers bring to your brand, there really is no limit to all the creative ways you can use them. Indoors or out.

### How to order your custom glitter stickers

![glitter stickers printing website checkout](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c8134f73-7070-4ced-a574-e729442f3fe0)

Ordering with Sticker Mule is easy. We understand buying online can be something of a hassle, so we've made sure to simplify our ordering process to its bare essence. You don't even need to create an account, although doing so only takes a minute and allows you to share your sticker art or save it for future reorders.

So it's all very simple. 

1. Select the amount and size of your stickers. 

2. Upload your art and add any printing instructions you have.

3. Check out! It takes only a moment, and you won't be charged yet.

4. Within a few hours, you'll get an email showing just what your stickers will look like printed. Now is the time to request changes to the design (all free) — or give us the green light.

Pretty neat, huh? And believe us, our discounts are pretty neat too. They come in several types:

- __Discounts on order number__: The more you buy, the less you pay per sticker — up to a whopping 87%!

- __Discounts on sticker size__: If you ordered a 5x5'' sticker, but your design turns out to take up 4x4.5'', your price is automatically adjusted to reflect that. And believe us, the difference adds up, especially for larger orders.

- __Discounts on multiple items__: The more individual artworks, sizes, or products you add to your cart, the bigger the discount. 

And of course, we run weekly promotions where our loyal clients get some of the sweetest sticker deals out there. Feel free to go right ahead and subscribe to never miss out on those!

### Customers are already raving about custom glitter stickers

> “Everyone is raving over the quality of the stickers!--- And slapping them on their cars too LOL! I highly recommend to anyone that wants a sticker that holds up to the weather etc. The glitter actually does have a bit of a rainbow affect in certain light.” 
> - Rachel G

check out this review

> “I am so happy with how the glitter stickers turned out that I almost cried!”
> - Heather

or this review too

> “My favorite sticker creation thus far! This is my fourth sticker creation using sticker mule and the glitter stickers are my favorite. the glitter background to my artwork were the finishing touch to make this design pop. I absolutely love everything about this sticker! Thank you sticker mule for all your awesome and affordable deals!”
> -Kandice

### Capping it all off

You can see why we're excited about our latest product launch, and we hope you are too. [Custom sticker glitters](https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers "glitter stickers") are a perfect way to promote your brand and give a joyful iridescent rainbow to any design or artwork you love, and we suspect at this point you have at least one design in mind you're just dying to make glittery.

So go right ahead, and order your [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers") now. Get them in a few days with free shipping and enjoy the glittering enthusiasm of Sticker Mule!

<ButtonCta text="Order custom glitter stickers today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/glitter-stickers" />



Sticker Mule is launching custom glitter stickers that sure do sparkle nicely! Find out inside how and why glitter stickers can help elevate your marketing efforts.

Best sticker material guide: Top choices & expert tips

From the custom vinyl sticker on your laptop to the price tag on a book, stickers are all around us and vary not only in size and color but also in the material they're made of. Which is exactly our topic for today.

![best custom sticker materials](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/364a0571-271c-43c6-a1f9-93a6d4e5d86a)

Does the material my sticker is made of matter? You betcha. The material determines what you can use your sticker for, how long it's likely to last, and even how eco-friendly you are. So join us as we go over the main sticker types, their uses, and some pros and cons.

## Types of sticker materials

Let's begin by looking at the main types of sticker materials and what they're good and bad for.

### Vinyl stickers

The most commonly used type for both personal and commercial uses, [vinyl stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/vinyl-stickers) are made from a thin layer of PVC that makes them waterproof and generally more resistant than other kinds of sticker. They can adhere to almost any surface, including metal, glass, wood, and plastic.

Popular uses for vinyl stickers include car decals, laptop stickers, office signage, and product labels.

What are the pros and cons of vinyl stickers? Let's take a look.

__Pros__

- vinyl stickers are waterproof, sunlight proof, and fairly weather-resistant in general
- they last longer, are harder to tear, and can be washed together with the surface they're on
- given their flexibility, they adhere easily to curved materials and thus have the best adhesion of any type of sticker
- vinyl stickers are easily customizable in a variety of colors, sizes, and die-cut shapes

__Cons__

- although recyclable, vinyl stickers are not the most environmentally-friendly option, as they are not biodegradable
- tend to be somewhat more expensive than other materials

### Paper stickers

![custom printed paper stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ae7377c3-9a6f-424a-aa0a-49c93ceee142)

Paper stickers can be a more budget-friendly option that you can still customize with a variety of finishes, including matte and uncoated. Good for indoor use, they're often used as product identifiers or labels and are often applied to materials such as paper, wood, glass, metal, and plastic.

Paper stickers have their own pros and cons. 

__Pros__

- price (cheaper than vinyl and other materials)
- biodegradable: unlike vinyl, paper [decomposes quickly and completely](https://stacker.com/environment/how-long-it-takes-50-common-items-decompose)
- easier to print: paper stickers don't require high-tech printers for their production

__Cons__

- poor durability: even coated paper stickers have lower durability than their vinyl counterparts, and will typically fade and become illegible under external weather conditions
- don't deal well with dirt: unlike vinyl stickers, they can't be washed
- tear easy (they're paper, after all!)

### Polyester stickers

Polyester stickers are the most durable of the bunch. Slightly thicker than vinyl stickers, they can take a beating from the sun, rain, snow, dirt, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and other elements — and come out looking just fine. 

That's why polyester stickers are often used for very long durability purposes, such as product labels that need to remain legible for the full lifetime of a product.

__Pros__

- extreme durability against all manner of weather and elements
- high level of tear resistance

__Cons__

- print quality tends to be lower than that of vinyl stickers
- cost — polyester is typically somewhat more expensive than vinyl
- eco-friendliness: unlike vinyl, polyester is a non-recyclable material

### Holographic stickers

![holographic sticker materials](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/16804331-7b8b-4be5-9ccc-2ed944373626)

[Holographic stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers) can be made of either paper, vinyl, or polyester, but what sets them apart is the unique iridescent glow added to them (usually through an extra vinyl layer). 

The holographic light-catching effect is a great way to set your stickers apart and also makes for some special uses — holographic ID stickers for your car's front window, for instance, are harder to replicate than normal stickers.

The pros and cons here are pretty straightforward:

__Pros:__ Create a unique visual style and are harder to replicate.

__Cons:__ Tend to be more expensive and require more advanced tech to make.

-----

## Factors to consider when choosing sticker material

As you see, each type of sticker has its pros and cons. To know which to choose for your company or your personal uses, you must keep a few factors in mind.

### Intended use

Are your stickers meant for indoor or outdoor use? As seen above, paper stickers tend to be suitable for use inside, while the sturdier vinyl and polyester stickers are more suitable for out-of-doors applications.

Surface type, too, plays a role. If you intend to place your stickers alongside a curved or round surface, the extra flexibility of vinyl stickers will be a good plus; for surfaces more likely to end up grimy or oily, polyester stickers are the superior choice.

### Durability

How long should your stickers last? There's another question to ask yourself. If you need them to stick around for quite a while, both vinyl and polyester are a good choices — they'll usually hold up well in any weather and deal well with dirt and high humidity. 

On top of that, you may also want to look for additional specs such as UV coating (to make sure your stickers won't fade fast when exposed to direct sunlight) or resistance to repeated washing and higher temperatures (as in the case of mug stickers).

### Print quality

For intricate designs that are likely to get inspected up close, vinyl and paper tend to be the way to go. Polyester is a challenging fabric to print on, and although it can take beautiful designs and a variety of colors, it's more suitable for large decals meant to be visible from a distance, and not inspected at close quarters.

The difference between vinyl and paper tends to be not so much in image detail but in color vibrancy. Vinyl lends itself to more vibrant printouts (both glossy and matte), whereas paper will naturally be more on the matte side. 

And, of course, for a supremely vibrant and eye-catching design, you can't go wrong with a good old multi-layered holographic sticker.

### Cost and budget considerations

Cost may or may not be one of your primary considerations, but it makes sense to factor in the equation — especially when bulk ordering. Paper stickers can be significantly cheaper than their longer-lasting counterparts, and can also be printed in most home printers. 

On the other hand, higher-quality designs tend to pay for themselves, which means vinyl stickers almost always give you an excellent bang for your buck — especially if you take advantage of bulk-order discounts such as the ones we offer at Sticker Mule. 

### Environmental concerns

![environmentally friendly stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5874f2a1-cb61-4c86-8506-d0bf9c1be16a)

Some companies pride themselves in being ecologically correct, which is not only good for the environment, but also a lucrative niche all of its own — as of 2020, 45% of US consumers showed interest in buying from [sustainable or environmental-friendly brands](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1234119/consumer-interest-in-sustainable-environmental-brands/).

With that in mind, from paper (biodegradable) to vinyl (recyclable) to polyester (non-degradable, non-recyclable), there's a decreasing scale of environmental-worthiness that you might want to consider if you've been [looking to make your packaging more eco-friendly](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-make-your-packaging-more-eco-friendly).

----

## Tips for selecting the best sticker material

So, what are some good tips for selecting the best material for your stickers? With the above info in mind, we recommend you:

- __Assess your needs.__ Begin by determining how you'll be using your stickers and what are your needs in terms of print quality, durability, weather and waterproof, etc.
- __Test different materials.__ For that, you can benefit from [ordering small custom samples](https://www.stickermule.com/products/sticker-samples).
- __Consult with professionals.__ I mean, why do all the work yourself? Ask a professional at a printer. At Sticker Mule, we're always happy to answer your questions.
- __Consider eco-friendly options.__ After all, if it's good for the environment, it's good for you — one way or another.

-----

### Conclusion

High-flexible vinyl stickers with great print quality, sturdy polyester designs to put through the elements and all kinds of abuse, cheap and simple paper stickers, or fancy shiny holographic ones — there's something to recommend each and every type of sticker. They each have their purpose.

So, just make sure you know what you're getting yours for, test with a sample, and you won't risk ending up with the wrong sticker material for your designs.

If you've read this far, you're either (incredibly) bored or (almost certainly) looking for stickers. So why not try out Sticker Mule's vinyl and holographic stickers? You know you want to!

<ButtonCta text="Print stickers today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/" />


What are the best sticker materials for printing stickers? Here are the top choices and the pros and cons of each!

Top 35+ free & paid AI tools you should be using in 2023

People have been talking about artificial intelligence for a while now. A pet sci-fi theme, it's spurred plenty of outlandish theories and hand-wringing about dystopian futures. But it was only over the past few months that the AI phenomenon seemed to really register on the global consciousness, driven primarily by the release of ChatGPT — a powerful chatbot that took the world by storm and reached a whopping [1 billion users in just under two months](https://www.demandsage.com/chatgpt-statistics/).

![best free ai tools in 2023](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d6e2ffc4-cf2c-4368-8a45-d0a51a13450f)

While it's anyone's guess what the future of AI holds in store for our economies, for scientific development, and even for our society's way of life, one thing's for sure — it's here to stay, and we better get used to its intrusive (but helpful) presence in our lives.

And what better way to embrace this brave new world than by taking advantage of the many free and paid AI tools already available out there? Without further ado, let's look at some of the best AI tools you should be using in 2023.

1). [ChatGPT](https://chat.openai.com/)

![best free ai tools 2023 chat gpt](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a72c8286-deee-41db-a094-8c22c2c439a6)

ChatGPT builds on the power of machine learning algorithms and a galaxy-vast database to answer pretty much anything you ask. It'll write you stories and poems, program, provide simple answers to complex topics, and help you with any number of planning tasks — besides just being a lot of fun to play around with.

2). [10Web](https://10web.io/)

![free ai tool to build website 10web](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9503c607-bfbb-4e9d-a1bc-acd4d899b11a)

If you're building your own site, 10Web is the número uno AI assistant for you. The app allows you to create web pages with no knowledge of coding using a simple drag-n-drop interface that makes it easy for anyone to make their own website.

3). [Midjourney](https://www.midjourney.com/app/) 

![free ai tool to create photos and images midjourney](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9416f88d-6329-4168-a6c4-bf33b893b98d)

Text-to-image is another aspect of so-called "generative AI" that's been making huge strides recently, as shown by Midjourney — an app with over 14 million users that can transform any text prompt into a unique, AI-generated output. 

Midjourney has recently [made headlines](https://www.reuters.com/technology/eu-lawmakers-committee-reaches-deal-artificial-intelligence-act-2023-04-27/) as a target of new proposed European legislation to regulate generative AI, given claims that its databases infringe artists' and photographers' copyrights.

4). [Upscale by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale)

[![free ai tool to upscale images online without losing quality](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7c33d40b-0bae-4c17-85f6-dc04489c867a)](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale "upscale images for free without losing quality")

Got the perfect image, but it's too low-resolution for printing? Fear not: Upscale by Sticker Mule taps into AI algorithms to provide missing pixels and render a high-quality version of your photographs and art.

5). [Magic Design by Canva](https://www.canva.com/magic-design/)

![free ai visualization tools](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9221c565-578f-4995-9623-15c6c5fbc12b)

Magic Design helps you turn into your own designer. Provide an image as a prompt and the AI software will bring up custom designs according to the context you need. With no coding or design skills needed, you'll soon be creating your own designs from scratch in a matter of minutes!

6). [Fireflies AI](https://fireflies.ai/)

![free ai tool for getting an AI assistant](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0cac6430-f369-4c39-ac6a-87e538c69487)

Voice assistants are another technology benefiting hugely from the AI boom, as in the case of Fireflies — an AI assistant for meetings. The app will help you take notes, transcribe discussions, and summarize meetings, improving your workflows and efficiency in the professional arena.

7). [SheetAI](https://www.sheetai.app/)

![free ai tool for google sheets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/579edd39-265f-4155-a092-76a1492ba292)

Tired of wasting tons of time trying to figure out the right command or coding for an Excel sheet? Well, no need for that anymore, as SheetAI does all the programming work for you. All you need to do is provide simple text prompts, sit back, and let the AI brain do its thing.

8). [Tome](https://beta.tome.app/)

![free ai tool to create and write content](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/daf75d68-0029-430c-8b2d-ada76f2a6851)

Tome describes itself as a "story-telling" app — not the bedtime kind, though. With Tome, you can instantly generate compelling narratives in the form of presentations including audiovisual content — all from a few simple prompts. Tome is a great way to help promote your products or ideas in the workplace.

9). [CodeWhisperer](https://aws.amazon.com/codewhisperer/)

![ai code suggestions for writing code faster](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/33c08039-ab6b-4a63-97d2-a77326b3e38e)

CodeWhisperer helps you code more effectively by drawing from billions of coding lines to suggest anything from simple snippets to fully-built functions of code. CodeWhisperer can even pick up your unique coding style and generate code to match.

10). [Bardeen](https://www.bardeen.ai/)

![free ai tools for automating tasks](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/61df6cac-1a31-4af6-8a96-892a586f61b8)

Bardeen is a business cloud-based data management and workflow tool. With Bardeen, you can automate mundane, repetitive tasks, including report generation, sending reminders, data entry, and a whole lot more.

11). [Tweethunter](https://tweethunter.io/)

![twitter audience and adds ai tool](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/74b7453f-15bb-4f5c-a2cf-93a0eb9aa72a)

Tweethunter helps Twitter users grow their audience and monetize their Twitter accounts, tapping into artificial intelligence to provide key insights for anything from best times to post and hot topics, to interesting opportunities. 

12). [Taplio](https://taplio.com/)

![free ai tool for linkedlin](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/fc68b1ff-0693-4f16-8013-c0e08432de0c)

Need an assistant to manage your LinkedIn account? That is the role of Taplio. Making use of machine learning algorithms, the app will provide you with ideas for hot posts, help schedule new content, and expand your professional network as a whole.

13). [VidIQ](https://vidiq.com/generate/)

![create content for youtube with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0cd023b1-05d8-4b66-9316-4458f7e02a08)

VidIQ is an extension for YouTubers— it provides tutorials, analytics, and insights on content creation and channel growth, as well as helps content creators find new keywords and trending topics for future posts.

14). [InboxPro](https://inboxpro.io/)

![free ai tool for gmail automation](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b7380078-bd53-41d6-99cb-83807b3930e6)

InboxPro is a suite of tools for email, calendar, and productivity management. With it, you'll answer emails faster, thanks to preset templates and AI predictive text, as well as save time with a myriad of daily business tasks such as scheduling events, sending RVSPs, or sending out reminders.

15). [HeadshotPro](https://www.headshotpro.com/)

![create professional photo headshots with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c55bd52a-6fbe-4ddf-bab1-b8acbbef86a0)

Is there no profile-worthy pic available? Upload any picture of yourself to HeadshotPro and get hundreds of professional corporate headshots generated in a matter of seconds!

16). [AgentGPT](https://agentgpt.reworkd.ai/)

![create AI bot to automate tasks](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ac8b0719-c897-4439-bf42-4c8059865e2f)

Create an AI agent and send it on a mission — any mission! From planning all the steps in a trip to scouring the web for information on a specific topic, AgentGPT will deliver powerful results for pretty much anything you ask it to do.

17). [Alicent](https://alicent.ai/)

![best chrome extension for chatgpt](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/78b0dc3e-409f-4555-8e84-cfa43f00cff7)

Alicent is a ChatGPT web extension through which you can benefit from the chatbot's assistance at any time and anywhere, with just a few clicks and prompts. Great for content creators, marketers, bloggers, and other professionals.

18). [ChatDOC](https://chatdoc.com/)

![summarize and extract content from documents with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/898eb877-5691-4024-a820-ce3385f202a6)

Another app based on ChatGPT, ChatDOC helps you extract content from any text file or document, as well as locate specific keywords and quickly summarize contents.

19). [Cassette AI](https://cassetteai.com/)

![ai generated music for free](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/db284cb4-83ce-446b-8663-0b286bc49abc)

Cassette enables musicians, composers, and music lovers all over the world to create music through prompts — anything from a synthy 80s-inspired beat to a violin playlist for focus and inspiration. 

20). [Lindy.ai](https://www.lindy.ai/)

![ai bot for google excel and google sheets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/170ba3f9-ff28-424d-a1e0-b8b29bd26730)

Lindy.ai is another AI tool for productivity and workflows, helping you automate all your day-to-day tasks from scheduling appointments and meetings to sending emails, taking notes, memos, and a lot more.

21). [Intellimail](https://www.intellimail.xyz/)

![ai tool for email](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/33aac2fc-01aa-493a-87da-51db389b1e9b)

Intellimail is a Chrome extension that works on Gmail to draft entire emails based on single-phrase prompts, saving users time and making for swifter, more effective, and clear professional communication.

22). [Kickresume](https://www.kickresume.com/en/ai-resume-writer/)

![free ai tool for resume building](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9392c8dd-f389-4271-8906-c76917fb336c)

AI lets you do many things, including drafting your resume. Powered by Open AI's GPT-4 NLP model, Kickresume will create a free resume for you with just a few prompts. And it looks good, too!

23). [Grammarly](https://www.grammarly.com/)

![ai tool for grammar correction](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7f78fdf7-e5b8-40c8-8c93-ab3d219d5a4c)

Grammarly is an extension trained on billions of words to predict and correct text as you type. Say goodbye to grammar and spelling mistakes with this handy tool. 

24). [Trace by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover with ai")

[![free ai background remover](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/32ae2360-a927-4262-b9ce-10605e34980c)](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover")

Trace is another app in the Sticker Mule stack of services. Use it to remove the background of any photo — whether it's your pet or your partner! — and create a ready-to-print photo for kickass stickers, magnets, or other custom items.

25). [Otter.ai](https://otter.ai/)

![free ai tool for note taking](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8f339dfe-f70f-40d1-bf88-ee66830314d6)

Otter is another great tool for meetings. Its functions include transforming text into notes, automatically capturing presentation slides, and generating handy meeting summaries.

26). [Quillbot](https://quillbot.com/)

![free ai paraphrasing tool](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/2d781d34-6649-4ce1-96d2-1377e2543670)

Lacking creativity, style, or vocabulary? Quillbot gives you a shortcut to better results by rephrasing any text you input. The app works as both a Chrome and Word extension and works with a range of language styles, including "creative", "professional", and "simple" tones.

27). [Replika](https://replika.com/)

![free AI support companion](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7bfc604f-c9b1-4bdd-a29c-4412d950e213)

Ever seen Her? Well, Replika brings something of that concept to life with its AI companion that will follow you anywhere, chat with you, be a (virtual) shoulder to cry on, and even coach you on a variety of subjects.

Or, you know, you just get out there and make some friends.

28). [DeepL Translator](https://www.deepl.com/en/translator)

![free ai translation service](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ef8bb413-ffa5-4776-9e2b-35cd959a6f16)

Deploying potent neural network machine learning and tapping into all of the internet for input and context, DeepL has been the golden standard for machine translation for nearly a decade and is available for free for several language sets, including English to French, Russian, and Chinese.

29). [Aiva](https://www.aiva.ai/)

![create music and songs with ai for free](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/df4881fe-800f-405f-860b-4887e3471f73)

Aiva is another music maker. Tune into the app and use style (70s rock) and tone (emotional) prompts to generate custom-made, unique machine-learning music.

30). [Hemingway Editor](https://hemingwayapp.com/)

![ai writing and content correction and suggestion](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c0f71904-63b3-4510-8217-52eabb31e2c6)

Although it's not certain the legendary Papa would approve, Hemingway Editor does the bulk of the work in helping you create a more vigorous, concise writing style. The AI editor will help you detect words to trim off, clumsy paragraphs to clean up, and windy sentences to straighten out. It can also give you writing tips and grade your work on a "Readability" scale.

31). [Dall-E2](https://openai.com/product/dall-e-2)

![art and image AI generation](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/467d7973-0a09-4a27-8d49-65b5ae7e1a65)

Another member of the OpenAI family, Dall-E2 creates realistic-looking images (by AI standards, that is) from simple natural language prompts. 

32). [LUMEN5](https://lumen5.com/)

![create video content at scale with AI](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/02a5f651-6f63-4f32-9e25-e5ebe4e5d396)

Lumen5 makes it easy for anyone to create compelling video content on an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. With machine learning algorithms, it can also transform text into videos and prepare clips out of Zoom recordings, among many other tricks.

33). [Riffusion](https://www.riffusion.com/)

![generate music for free with ai tools](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3beeb376-8980-4af0-9899-d7f411ca3a54)

Riffusion is a neural network with an innovative concept: it generates music using images of sound, instead of audio. Essentially, it visualizes, then composes music. Although the app is still in its infancy, the approach carries a lot of promise for composers and soundtrack creators out there.

34). [Point-E](https://openai.com/research/point-e)

![create 3D point clouds with AI](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/49645fff-3455-4103-b610-cd98de9ac66a)

Visualize complex ideas and projects by transforming prompts into 3D point clouds — that is the simple, but rather incredible offering of Point-E. Point-E is yet another member of the GPT-4 family.

35). [LALAL.AI](https://www.lalal.ai/)

![extract vocals from music with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7cbbef03-f089-412e-afbe-754044ddbc3c)

LALAL helps you extract bits of music, detaching specific vocals or instruments from the rest and combining them with other sounds to create new music from old.

36). [Deep Nostalgia](https://www.myheritage.com/deep-nostalgia)

![animate old family photos with AI](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/256fdd23-4b16-45a8-9303-e02b85f5e1bc)

A fascinating, if slightly creepy app, Deep Nostalgia makes use of machine learning algorithms to bring life to old pictures of relatives or historical figures. Don't blame us for the nightmares.

37). [Magic Eraser](https://magicstudio.com/magiceraser)

![remove objects in photos with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/84557edc-de4c-45cd-987d-c7453dffb854)

Magic Eraser's AI brain is pleased to assist you with one of the biggest hurdles of image editing — removing unwanted objects. Correct your pictures, reimagine your living spaces, and perhaps even remove a few tourists from that memorable vacation picture of last year!

38). [Fontjoy](https://fontjoy.com/)

![create design font pairs with ai](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/90dccc23-fa27-4a2c-a8a6-9b4289a587b0)

Font pairing may sound like a far-fetched concept, but it is actually a core element of graphic design and typographic style. With Fontjoy, you can generate fonts that pair well with one another, creating matchups, contrasts, and other effects for greater visual impact and a cleaner and more agreeable reading experience.

39). [Gamma](https://gamma.app/)

![free ai content writing tool ](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/67295ea4-ec9b-4722-a937-f531f1a94940)

Slide decks? Who needs them! Gamma is a fast and downright effective way to share and present your work in presentations, memos, briefs, and docs. Gamma's AI generator gives life to your ideas and helps you drive your message across any professional medium.

### To cap off

From creating images for laughs to serious professional uses, AI tools are everywhere. Use them to improve workflows, aid your creativity, or just have some good old fun!

<ButtonCta text="Upscale images for free with AI today!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/upscale" />
<ButtonCta text="Remove backgrounds from photos for free!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/trace" />



Free AI tools are everywhere these days, but here are 35+ free and paid AI apps that are actually super useful and could transform the way you do day-to-day activities!

How to start a candle business at home: Step-by-step guide

Who could have predicted that candles, of all things, would be increasing in popularity in 2023? 

![starting a candle business online with no money](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3ef64d91-8c77-45f8-bccc-68933f32d85a)

Our age is one of plentiful lighting, as [an image of Earth's light pollution map](https://www.cleardarksky.com/maps/lp/large_light_pollution_map.html) will show you. But not even the uber-cheap and ubiquitous LED lamps that illuminate our interiors managed to snuff out the humble candle from our homes.

No longer relevant for lighting, this [5000-year-old invention](https://candles.org/history/) found a new purpose in decoration and lifestyle. Modern home décor tendencies and well-being practices such as aromatherapy have fueled the demand for artisanal and scented candles — a tendency compounded by the [pandemic-inspired rise of wellness trends among millennials](https://www.vogue.in/beauty/content/heres-how-candles-lead-the-wellness-industry-during-the-pandemic). 

With the current $12.88 billion global candle market burning bright and [an expected growth rate of 5.7% from 2023 to 2030](https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/candles-market), the popularity of candles is as far as ever from dying out and the moment is ripe for aspiring chandlers everywhere. 

Want to know how to start a candle business at home? Then light yourself a candle and read on as we provide an overview of the main steps for starting a candle business.

## __1) Choose your niche__

![a woman wondering which candle to choose](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/16ae8c1d-a082-4ea9-a64a-f8e700670a90)

Before you get started with your candle business, determine what will your niche be. It's best to start small and do one thing well, keeping the alternative to expand to other candle types later on.

### Main types of candles

As candle aficionados know, candles come in diverse shapes, sizes, aromas, and materials. Let's go over four common types.

#### Scented candles

Scented candles are a great way to relieve stress and create a relaxing environment. Alongside essential oils, they make up the core of aromatherapy and have also grown in popularity as we spend more time at home and are more concerned with how our dwelling spaces smell. 

Research has even [shown the right smells can increase our productivity](https://www.bbc.com/news/business-61708789). All of this makes aromatic candles a great candle-making niche.

#### Decorative candles

All candles are extremely versatile when it comes to decoration, but you can choose to make candles targeting a special kind of décor or style. Decorative candles such as the ones used in hygge trends tend to be odorless, as they're meant to be just a small part of your home environment.

If you choose to work with decorative candles, you'll find it a perfect opportunity to play with shapes and colors. You can even choose to make candles for special seasonal events, such as orange pumpkin-shaped candles for Halloween or green pine-shaped ones for Christmas.

#### Beeswax candles

Beeswax candles make up a special — and expensive — niche in the world of chandlers. The high melting point of beeswax means these candles will burn longer than regular paraffin ones, but that is far from their only advantage. Beeswax candles release less soot and emit more light, while not having a strong scent, which makes them perfect for a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

Beeswax is also said to have a positive effect on the quality of the air in your home — as the candle burns, it releases negative ions which neutralize various air pollutants. 

The thing to have in mind here is that beeswax is a more expensive material, which may require more careful sourcing and planning.

#### Soy candles

Soy candles are another in the category of so-called "happy wax" — non-pollutant wax made from natural materials. Because they don't burn petroleum-based paraffin, their flame is cleaner, with a better impact on both your health and the environment. Plus they're sourced from soybeans, which makes them better for the environment.

Similar to beeswax, soy candles also burn longer than paraffin ones. Add that to the fact they're "green" and you have yourself a nice niche for environmentally-conscious customers.

----

## 2) Create a Unique Selling Proposition

A Unique Selling Proposition (or UPS, for short) is essentially telling your clients why your product is worth their attention and money — why they should buy from you, and not the competition.

A USP is essential for any business, and for a good reason: Having a good product means nothing if you can't convince your customer to acquire it.

To formulate a compelling USP:

- **Identify your target market.** Understand what demographic is likely to buy your product. In the case of beeswax candles, that could be middle-class, environmentally-conscious female millennials.
- **Determine what makes your product unique.** This will be the focal point in your marketing to that audience. Going back to beeswax, it is unique because it is eco-friendly, lasts longer, and is a traditional, timeless product.
- **Write a USP that highlights these benefits** in a clear and concise way. 
- **Promote!** Your USP can be the focal point of your company's "About" page, your slogan, and even your logo.

----

## 3) Develop your product line

![materials for candle business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/98257d9d-42a9-4e34-bf9b-3ec39c62cfdc)

A company is only as good as the product it sells. Once you have arrived at your unique selling point, it's time to develop your product line so it matches and exceeds your customers' expectations.

Here, you'll want to experiment with the many scents, colors, and candle styles available, finding high-quality materials for each aspect of your candle line. The combinations here are pretty much infinite, and with enough planning and testing, you'll soon be on your way to crafting your very own brand of candles.

Consider carefully each element of your candles.

### Waxes

We already saw how important it is to choose the proper wax for your candle niche. Among the types of candle waxes to consider, we've got:

- **Paraffin wax:** Also known as mineral wax, it is cheaper, more easily available, and better for strong fragrances. However, it burns faster, releases soot, and is sourced from non-renewable petroleum.
- **Soy wax:** A perfect environmental-friendly alternative to paraffin wax, albeit less conducive to smells. Burns very well, with little soot.
- **Paraffin-soy blend:** Blends are often used to bring together the benefits of two materials, as in the case of slow-burning aromatic parasoy blend candles.
- **Beeswax:** The best-burning type of candle material, it is also one of the most expensive.
- **Coconut wax:** Another expensive, but eco-friendly alternative that lends itself well to different blends.

### Wicks

Wicks can be chosen based on the type of wax or container being used, as well as simply with an eye to aesthetics. The main types of wicks are as follows.

- **Flat:** The most common type in taper and pillar candles, flat wicks are made up of two or three fiber strands knitted together. They curl into the flame for an effortless self-trimming effect. 
- **Square:** Braided square wicks are often used with beeswax, as they clog less than other types of wicks.
- **Cored:** Cored wicks are braided around a central piece, usually made of cotton, zinc, or paper, which helps keep them erect. They're popular in jar candles and votives.
- **Wooden:** Made from wood or combinations of wood fiber and cotton, these wicks have gained in popularity due to their aesthetic effect and the gentle crackling sound they produce.

### Fragrances

A powerful, but woefully underused sense, [smell is processed differently from any other sense](https://www.discovery.com/science/Why-Smells-Trigger-Such-Vivid-Memories) — which is just one of the reasons for the popularity of aromatic candles. Used well, the right scent will help shape unforgettable moments; your scented candles can spark vivid emotions and become connected with precious memories. 

Candle fragrances are also a brilliant way to set a mood of relaxation or create an atmosphere for concentration, among many other uses — all of which you should have in mind as you go about choosing, mixing, and inventing your own fragrances. 

Don't forget to name your fragrances in original and memorable ways. That can be a nice way to strengthen brand associations, set your product line apart, and explore your creativity.

### Containers

The containers you use for your candles should also hinge on your target market and the general style you're going for. Mason or jelly jars have a more rustic appeal, whereas tumbler jars can be directed at a public with more refined tastes. Similarly, the colors you employ should also be in touch with your general branding, candle type, and market.

----

## 4) Branding and packaging

![design logo and packaging for candle business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4a4b17b7-b261-4de4-81b8-c0a468127f36)

Branding is a key aspect of your home candle business — it can be the decisive element that makes customers pick your shop among a multitude of others and keeps them coming back.

While branding doesn't have to take a lot of your time and effort, it does need to be well planned. You want to convey a consistent image and message that will be firmly lodged into buyers' minds, and this means attention to a few key elements.

### Designing your logo

Your logo is your brand's calling card. Make it simple or fancy, but make it memorable and in tune with your brand's overall look and feel. If you need help designing your logo, you can check out some of the [many templates available in our free Studio design tool](https://www.stickermule.com/studio/search?group=all&q=logo).

### Making good use of candle labels

[Candle labels](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/candle-labels) can be a key branding item that is well worth your time and attention. Besides sharing your logo and brand name with the world, they also help create the general feel you're going for — rustic, refined, modern, or classic.

### Choosing the right packaging

Packaging is another often overlooked, but major factor in your overall branding effort. Factors to keep in mind here include:

- **Packaging material:** Boxes, paper bags, and mailers are just some of the most common options.
- **Customization:** [How do you make your packaging stand out?](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/5-inexpensive-ways-to-make-your-packages-stand-out) Among other ideas, custom tags and personalized packaging tape can go a long way toward creating a unique brand look.
- **Pricing:** An important factor for home businesses. But no worries, there are plenty of ways to use unique packaging material and customization while keeping a tidy budget!

----

## 5) Set up your online presence

![setting up an online presence](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/698bbaa7-1dba-4ff9-a252-a9385a426693)

Now that you have your niche, product line, and branding elements figured out, it's time to make sure customers know where to find you. For that, you can create your own website or choose to go with an e-commerce platform. 

### Creating a website

Having your website makes you independent of other platforms and is a sign of professionality, but it also takes a bit more effort. You'll need to register (and pay for) your own domain and choose a web design for your site — something you can build by yourself, buying a [pre-designed theme](https://themeforest.net/category/ecommerce), or simply pay a freelancer on outsourcing platforms such as Upwork to do it for you. 

In order to sell on your own website, you may need to integrate it with a plugin for e-commerce websites. Popular options include:

- **Woocommerce:** An open-source plugin for Wordpress-based websites, Woocommerce is completely free to use and can be a great way to manage your own website.
- **[Bigcommerce](https://www.bigcommerce.com/ "Bigcommerce"):** Bigcommerce is an all-in-one e-commerce platform with a big stack of customizable themes, product management, order processing, payment gateway integrations, and marketing tools for online stores. Pricing plans start at around $40/month.
- **Magento:** Also open-source, Magento provides customizable themes, product management, order processing, customer service, and marketing tools for e-commerce websites. It is great for technical people that want to be able to do everything but can be cumbersome for others to use. Pricing varies according to the services you use.

### Using an e-commerce platform

An e-commerce platform can help establish an early presence in the market while sparing you the trouble of creating a website. Selling through a platform [such as Etsy](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-sell-on-etsy-a-guide-for-designers) can also help you shape a reputation through user reviews, as well as smoothing out the ordering process — all of which is great news in case you're starting your company solo and don't have that much time to spare.

On the other hand, platforms will usually shave a fixed fee or percentage fee off your sales earnings, so keep that in mind. In the case of Etsy, that's 6.5% of each transaction.

### Setting up social media profiles

Social media is [a growing force in the e-commerce landscape](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1251145/social-commerce-sales-worldwide/), and a valuable tool for your home candle business. Make sure to set up pages across all major social media in your country, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

Regularly posting on social media will help grow your following, besides showcasing your products, and providing a channel to answer customers' queries and collect feedback.

### SEO and content marketing strategies

Once you've got your website up and running and have established a presence on social media, remember to keep the content coming — that's how you stay relevant and in front of customers.

For search engine optimization (SEO), it can be a good idea to incorporate a blog into your website. You can post about new product releases, interesting facts or how-tos, or just about anything connected to the world of candles. And make sure to post regularly — twice a month or so, at least.

Another great way to stay in touch with your customers is by setting up a newsletter where you share releases and promos with your subscribers. Just take care not to overdo the frequency of your emails, though — two or so a week, tops.

----

## 6) Pricing and shipping management

![determining packaging and pricing for a candle business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c7ece126-c6dc-43e3-8f9f-de9322d2e4ab)

Last but not least, let's take a look at two key aspects of your candle business: pricing and shipping.

### Pricing

Pricing your products can be quite tricky at first, but you'll soon find your way around. A few key elements to consider:

- **Your total cost in making the candles.** This includes your average spend per type of candle (including packaging and shipping) + time investment. You should also have an idea of how much your time is worth — what is the minimum that this job should pay hourly, as well as your target hourly earnings.
- **Your target market.** Here we go back to your chosen niche, as the purchasing power of your target customers also plays into your pricing strategies.
- **Your perceived value.** This is how much people think your products are worth in comparison to other, similar products. Although it'll be hard to evaluate when you're starting out, you'll eventually be able to factor perceived value into your pricing as you build your customer base and find out where you stand before the competition.
- **The competition.** All of the calculations above have to be grounded in reality. That means understanding how much the competition is pricing their products, and adapting your price accordingly.

There are plenty of other pricing aspects to keep in mind, including bulk sale pricing, whether or not to offer free shipping, loyalty discounts, promo codes, and a lot more. But you don't need to tackle it all at once; just start with the essentials and enrich your pricing system as your business grows.

### Shipping and order management

The importance of shipping cannot be disregarded. On the one hand, the cost and speed at which you ship directly affect your customers' willingness to buy with you. On the other, you need to factor in how much you spend managing order shipment — in both money and time.

With that in mind, make sure you plan your shipping strategy well. One idea can be to manage your shipments through a fulfillment or shipping platform, such as Shipstation or our own free tool: [Ship, by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/ship). A management platform will help you streamline your shipping, which can be particularly helpful when dealing with increased seasonal demand (such as the crazy peak time in November-December).

Finally, remember that shipping is a unique chance to impress your customer. You can find out ways to [captivate your buyers with a memorable shipping experience](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-make-memorable-shipping-experience "memorable shipping experiences") in a recent blog post of ours.

----

## Quick recap

| Step | Things to do                     |
|------|----------------------------------|
| 1    | Choose your niche                |
| 2    | Create a unique selling proposition |
| 3    | Develop your product line        |
| 4    | Branding and packaging           |
| 5    | Set up your online presence      |
| 6    | Pricing and shipping management  |

----

Starting your own candle business from home may seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be that way. Just take things one step at a time. Remember to consider your niche, plan your product line and branding, establish your online footprint, and have a well thought-out plan for shipping and pricing.

Go after your entrepreneurial dreams and you find that not only is it a feasible way to start making money from what for many is just a hobby, but your candle business just might turn out to be the [moonlighting effort](https://www.artofmanliness.com/career-wealth/career/how-to-moonlight-your-way-to-your-dreams-case-studies-from-famous-men/) that transforms passion into a livelihood.


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A detailed guide on how to start a candle business. Even if you have little to no money, this guide will help you on your journey to create a great new candle business!

Discover 10 popular types of stickers for every occasion

[Stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "stickers") have been around for just under a century, but they already feel timeless. From the price tag on your banana to the cheesy quote you inflict on the driver behind you, stickers are simply everywhere. 

![different types of custom stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4c71ec42-812b-44c0-bc0e-5cb35d276247)

Coming in all shapes, sizes, materials, and colors, the ubiquitous sticker plays very diverse roles. There are the prized collectible superhero stickers of your childhood, the faded paper sticker with a barcode, soon to be torn off and discarded, the colorful school wall graphic, and the dull letter stickers on your office door. And so many more.

These stickers each have their point and purpose. Below, we'll take a look at some of the main sticker types, what they're made of, and what they're made for. Join us in this brief exploration of the world of stickers.

### 1. Vinyl stickers

![custom vinyl stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/31ca5210-5aba-49bb-b9f1-87da6b6c2a2b)

Also known as PVC, vinyl is the main material used for stickers meant to last. Sturdier than paper and other materials, vinyl stickers can take a lot of abuse and keep going — they'll literally stick around.

Common uses for [vinyl stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/vinyl-stickers "custom vinyl stickers") include:

- Outdoor applications, such as bike stickers, hard hat stickers, surfboard stickers, etc.
- Customizing water flasks, laptops, and other personal belongings
- Labeling glass jars, bottles, and similar objects

### Advantages and disadvantages of vinyl stickers

Vinyl stickers are the norm — if you're looking at a sticker, chances are it's a vinyl one. That's because:

- They're waterproof and oil resistant
- They're weatherproof and can take years to fade even when exposed to sun and rain daily
- They're sturdy and don't scratch or tear easily
- They're supremely sticky and will last a long time
- They're sleek and quality-looking

That said, they're not fit for every use. Vinyl stickers:

- Can be more expensive than simple paper stickers
- Can leave residue behind once they're removed
- Are not eco-friendly, as they're not biodegradable or recyclable

### 2. Clear stickers

![custom clear stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/63621348-ce77-477d-8f09-db24e1bec1f8)

Let's talk about a sticker's look, not the material. Most [clear stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/clear-stickers) are made of — you guessed it — vinyl. More specifically, transparent vinyl. The point of clear stickers is to make only the sticker's design visible, and not the backing.

There are plenty of applications for clear stickers, but they're especially popular on transparent surfaces such as glass windows or glasses. They're also great for mugs, laptops, and phone cases — pretty much any use case where you want to make sure your design is visible against an object's surface.

### 3. Bumper stickers

![custom bumper stickers types](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/974bc5dc-448d-4eba-97e4-35f80663428a)

Besides being used to entertain or annoy other commuters, [bumper stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/bumper-stickers "custom bumper stickers") are a popular sticker type for more serious uses, such as supporting your candidates or sharing a political slogan.

Bumper stickers are also popular as a way to market your business or services, sharing brand names and company phone numbers. In fact, that was their original purpose back in 1946, when they were [first put into use](https://wtop.com/jiffy-lube-sponsored-content/2021/08/a-brief-history-of-bumper-stickers-decade-by-decade).

Rather more discreet than window decals, bumper stickers are nonetheless a great way to advertise what you're all about.

### 4. Holographic stickers

![custom holographic stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f8dc08b6-5352-4e14-b910-a5147fe424b2)

Holographic stickers have a nice rainbow effect finish that makes them a great choice for fun visuals and appealing designs. But they can also have an important role to play. Since holographic designs are harder to duplicate, these stickers are often used as credentials (think the car window type) or security seals.

You can check out the [Sticker Mule holographic stickers here](https://www.stickermule.com/products/holographic-stickers). If you're the creative type, you'll find they can be really a lot of fun.

### 5. Transfer stickers

![custom transfer stickers for cars](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6f27f054-92c9-4e76-8afe-da95d425acef)

Also known as vinyl cut stickers or vinyl lettering, [transfer stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/transfer-stickers) are stickers made of several pieces that you need to keep together while transferring to the desired surface.

A special transfer tape keeps the pieces together; after removing the sticker from the paper backing and sticking it to the surface, you'll then peel back this transfer tape, leaving only your intricate design.

Transfer stickers are great for complex designs, such as lettering, that need to be precisely applied on a surface. They're often used on shop windows and office doors. 

### 6. Die-cut stickers

![custom die cut types of stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1b8cb07d-b346-448c-a69b-15d4e4a4439b)

Unlike round or square stickers, [die-cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) are cut following the precise shape of your design. This makes them a great choice for stickers that need to blend in neatly with the object they're glued onto. 

Applications for die-cut stickers include: 

- Printing pet stickers that follow the contour of your pet's head
- Stickers for narrow surfaces (such as bicycle frame stickers)

### 7. Face stickers

![custom face stickers types](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/682eedf0-34ee-4cb8-bcd7-b3d57874d789)

[Custom face stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/face-stickers) are just what the name says. More importantly, they're a great way to make people smile. Whether it's a grumpy cat (or baby) or the smiling face of a loved one now immortalized in graphic form, face stickers can be a fun and entirely unique way to customize your belongings.

Face stickers are usually die-cut, and are a popular addition to glasses, flasks, laptops, and notebooks.

### 8. Kiss cut stickers

![custom kiss cut sticker printing](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0454789b-52ba-43b4-b2cd-3c133c957100)

[Kiss cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/kiss-cut-stickers) come in a special paper backing that both protects the sticker and doubles as an extra space to print on. This makes them especially popular with delicate designs, where the corners and borders of the sticker require additional protection.

Kiss-cut stickers are also popular as a way for shops and artists to include more information about their business in the discardable sticker backing.

### 9. Window clings

![custom types of window clings](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/07824e96-a21f-472a-a960-36422cd959d7)

Window clings, a.ka. [static clings](https://www.stickermule.com/products/static-clings "custom static clings") or electrostatic stickers, harness the power of electricity and atmospheric pressure to stick to the surface they're applied to. That's right — no adhesive is required to make these thin-vinyled bad boys stick! 

Easy to apply and remove without leaving any residue behind, window clings are the perfect solution for a variety of uses, such as:

- seasonal designs and decorations
- showcasing promotions or sales
- when you want to avoid sticky residue
- other temporary uses and applications

Although they're a great alternative to the traditional sticker, window clings have their limitations:

- they can only be applied to surfaces such as glass or some metals
- they don't do well in high humidity environments and outdoors
- they don't last quite as long as adhesive stickers

This means window clings are great for temporary applications where they won't deal with much wear and tear.

### 10. Wall and floor stickers

![custom types of wall and floor stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/592be51f-1009-4ea5-afaf-020236d0e41d)

Also known as wall or floor decals, these are large stickers made with a fabric-like vinyl and meant for a more permanent decorative use. They're popular in offices, schools, and public places, and are made to last.

Because they're very large, [wall and floor stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/floor-graphics) usually come with a special backing, adhesive tape strips, and even a squeegee to help squeeze out air bubbles from the design. 

Common uses for wall and floor stickers include:

- branding on banks, offices, and public spaces
- home decoration
- large informational graphics and designs

### Conclusion

The above are just some of the more popular types of stickers. For your car or your office, for personal uses or professional applications, to advertise, or to make friends laugh, these stickers got you covered. 

Just remember not all stickers are created equal. A window decal serves a very different purpose from a window cling; a kiss cut sticker is not the same as a transfer sticker. So make sure you do your research before you order your stickers — especially when bulk ordering. 

And speaking of bulk, did you know Sticker Mule has some of the best deals out there for bulk ordering custom stickers? Check out all the [types of custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "stickers") we currently offer and [subscribe to our deals](https://www.stickermule.com/deals "sticker deals") to save big!

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Here are some of the most popular types of stickers right now in 2023. Find the perfect sticker type for any occasion!

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