How to make a custom dog shirt


<YouTubeVideo videoId="ocOrdSW4yO4" />

If your dog had opposable thumbs and access to a credit card, is there any doubt he’d be ordering posters, stickers, and t-shirts with your face on them, obsessing over you day and night?

Shouldn’t you do the same for your dog? 🐶

Dog face t-shirts are among the most popular designs we see, submitted by both designers and non-designers alike.

And it’s easy to see why. Few things spark joy like a photo of a happy dog. Especially *your* happy dog. Whether it’s for a birthday or Christmas, a t-shirt featuring your pup’s smiling face is guaranteed to make your friends and family smile too.

If you're not a designer, you might wonder how to get that polished, professional look.

Good news! We’ve got you covered. In this post (and the video above), you’ll learn how to use Sticker Mule’s tools to:

- Remove the background from a photo of your dog

- Turn your dog’s photo into a hand-drawn-style illustration

- Use AI to generate fun variations of your dog in different styles

Ready to make your dog the star they are? Watch the video or keep reading!

###Step 1) Find a cool photo of your dog

That should go without saying, but it's still worth emphasizing — it's the most important step. So take your time and go through the hundreds of pet pictures we know you have on your camera roll, and make sure you really get the pick of the litter. 

For a great, natural shot, you want a photograph that checks all these boxes:

- Has great natural lighting 
- Your dog is the focal point 
- It captures a memorable pose or look 

If it's one of those hilarious, one-in-a-thousand moments, then all the better!

###Step 2) Use Trace to remove the background

![trace removed background from dog photo](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9e255967-b7a1-4c1f-9422-94a26919ecda)

[Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "free background remover tool") is one of the most popular tools in the Sticker Mule editing toolbox and for good reason. You upload your picture, click a satisfyingly orange button and, before your dog can bark twice, you've got yourself a perfectly isolated version of the star of your photo with a transparent background.

Another click and your picture is downloaded and ready for printing (if you prefer, you can click the "Order" button in Trace to start your order right away). 

###Step 3) Add text in Studio (optional)

If you prefer more than just your dog's face on the t-shirt, you can head on to Sticker Mule Studio to put some copy on the shirt. It might be your dog's name, his or her favorite expression, or an [inspirational quote](https://dogfriendlysanantonio.com/best-quotes-about-dogs/). 

###Step 4) Order your custom dog shirts via Sticker Mule

![custom printed dog t-shirt order](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ead51480-ff3d-4d38-9ae1-687755658b23)

Now that you have  all that's left is to go to our [custom t-shirts page](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts online"), select the size and quantity for your order, the t-shirt color, and upload your dog picture. You can also add any specific instructions you may have for the printing.

After you check out, we'll get back to you with a free online proof showing exactly what your dog t-shirt is going to look like. At this point, you can either request changes or just go right ahead and confirm the order.

###Step 6) Get your t-shirt!

![custom t-shirts by sticker mule. the most comfy t-shirts on the planet](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/aa93f7cc-94ad-4297-a5f6-34911202df32)

Within days of approving your proof, you'll receive a package in the mail with your brand new t-shirt. Wear in proudly. Your dog will thank you for helping to amplify his message of love, joy, and treats!

Here are some bonus tips for making your t-shirt even more unique.

##How to turn your dog photo into an illustration

![illustration of a dog](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/db9d7298-f94a-4028-8959-ff81802bf086)

If you want to make sure you get the best quality for your picture before printing, then [Redraw](https://www.stickermule.com/redraw) is here for you. It'll convert your file into a high-quality professional vector image to be printed at absolutely any size you choose.

It's easy, and at $14 it's a fraction of what it'd cost to hire an artist to recreate your photo from scratch. Here's how to do it.

1) Upload your newly downloaded photo to Redraw.

2) Order the Redraw for $14 (we've lowered prices since we made the video above).

3) Receive a proof in email.

4) Upon approval, download your finished vector image under "Artwork".

Unlike other services, our image-to-vector service is done by human artists, so not only can you be assured your artwork will be top quality, you can go back and forth with our artists as much as you need until your image is exactly the way you like it. 

##How to create versions of your dog photo in different styles using AI

While we'll always recommend human artists to prepare professional-caliber art for you, there is another option. We talked a little about AI-generated art [in this post](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/turn-photos-into-studio-ghibli-art) when Studio Ghibli-inspired generative AI images trended on social media. 

AI is another tool you can use to transform your dog photo into a number of other options for t-shirt designs. 

For example, here I asked ChatGPT to redraw the original dog photo in the style of a Hanna-Barbera cartoon. 

![ai-generated rendition of dog in the style of hanna-barbera](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b31d1120-ebbd-4812-a140-6817a959c276)

And here I asked it to draw this dog in the style of a Pokemon character.

![dog in the style of a pokemon character](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b37b38db-2fa5-4038-81eb-2bb01d8f12d9)

Just a note about AI-generated images. While AI does an impressive job of mimicking artistic styles at lightning speed, there's really no substitute for a real human artist to truly capturing the essence of a subject. That said, by playing around and modifying your prompt, you can have the AI fine-tune the drawing similar to how an artist might. 

At this point, AI is probably best for things like parody and fun—for example, a personalized Scooby-Doo quote would go well with the image here on a t-shirt. But if you're looking for serious artwork like a portrait, be sure to find a human! 





Here's a quick guide on how to print a custom t-shirt of your dog. Learn tips & tricks on how to make your dog shirt really stand out!

How to make your own National Park magnets

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the "Mighty 5", the five National Parks of Utah including Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. 

One of the most awe-inspiring hikes was going through Bryce Canyon. I went with my family in February, meaning we had to wear ice spikes and winter clothes. It also meant we were treated to some of the most spectacular views available any time of the year with clear, crisp air and the hoodoo rock formations frosted with snow.

After our hike, we went to the Visitor Center. I wanted to treat my daughter to a nice souvenir so we could always remember our experience. 

In the magnet part of the National Park store, I came across magnets that looked like this.

![Image of cheap magnets in Bryce Canyon gift shop](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/723302d4-a083-404c-9dd2-533e6ce4c535)

Let me explain what you're looking at:

1. The image is a stock photo the manufacturer of this magnet [downloaded from iStockPhoto](https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/bryce-sunrise-gm465425161-33661250), taken in 2014
1. Even a junior designer can see that whoever "designed" this magnet did a horrific job at color correction. (Spoiler alert: the real Bryce Canyon is not the color of vomit)
1. The typography is hard-to-read and forgettable
1. Making matters worse, this magnet was mass produced in China, 6,500 miles away from Bryce Canyon

Every other magnet on sale was equally forgettable. 

What would you say if I told you that you could create your own National Park magnet:

- That captures your unique experience NOW (not some stock photographer's over a decade ago)
- Where YOU control the copyright, not some stock agency
- That's made in the USA
- Where you can receive 10 magnets for less than the cost of three at the gift shop
- That exceeds the quality of the gift shop magnet in virtually every way: color fidelity, magnet strength, design
- That takes about 5 minutes to make

##How to make your own National Park magnet

I'll go beyond saying it. I'll show you how I did it. 

###1. Select your photo

Believe it or not, choosing the right photo ended up being the most time-consuming part of this process. 

On the hike, I literally took over 500 pictures. If you've ever hiked Bryce Canyon, you'll know that an entire scene might look dramatically different in the matter of just a few minutes depending on the time of day, the weather, and even your viewing angle.

I finally decided on this one, one of the iconic views of a formation called Thor's Hammer, taken on my iPhone.

![Photo taken at Bryce Canyon National Park](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/718524cb-9fe0-40b7-81c0-24e68e93ac23)

###2. Go to Sticker Mule Studio

If you're a seasoned designer, you can go to your favorite design software, like Photoshop or Illustrator. Check out our [FAQs](https://www.stickermule.com/support/artwork) for everything you need to know about design specs.

If you're not a professional designer (or you are one but just want to save some time) we created [Sticker Mule Studio](https://www.stickermule.com/studio) just for you.

Sticker Mule Studio is our easy-to-use design tool for magnets and some of our other products. People compare it to Canva, but we think it's even simpler—and it automatically ensures your artwork meets our specs. That means you have full creative control, and once you're happy with your design, the proofing process is a breeze.

Here's how I used Sticker Mule Studio to make a national park magnet. 

To get started, click the green __Create Design__ button in the top right corner

![how to get started with Sticker Mule Studio](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/cafb7cba-c43c-461d-882d-b667a0811756)

###3. Choose your dimensions

The first step is to input your dimensions. I decided to use a width and height that matched the magnet I saw in the gift shop. 

- I changed the units to inches
- I entered 3 inches for the width
- I entered 2.5 inches for the height

The canvas size automatically adjusts once you enter this information.

![Specify your width and height in Sticker Mule Studio](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/955fc679-4b01-4f94-abea-02a826fd6511)

###4. Upload your photo

Next, it's time to upload your photo. 

- Click the Uploads icon on the left side. 

- Click the blue __Upload Image__ button and upload your image.  Your photo will be placed onto the canvas. 

![upload image to sticker mule studio](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a3603137-6107-456c-ae37-91867049f0a1)

###5. Adjust the photo to cover the entire canvas

If the aspect ratio of your photo doesn’t match the canvas, don't worry; simply enlarge and position the image as desired. Any portion outside the canvas will be automatically cropped.

If you intend to include text on your image, make sure to leave some blank space on the canvas.

Use the controls at the bottom of the page to zoom in or out of the canvas as needed.

![expanding the uploaded image to fill the frame](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8aa80d49-e300-43b1-8bb5-70d48de12c5c)

###6. Put in text

The next step was to put in text. 

Click on the Text icon on the left-hand menu to reveal different text styles and templates. I chose the template that says "ASAP AS SOON AS POSSIBLE"

![choose text for your sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c0f1ec7f-8ca9-4dd0-964d-d1738f1ed83c)

I ungrouped the text and adjusted the color and positioning until I was happy with it. Notice how I intentionally cropped the photo so that there'd be a nice section of deep blue sky where a white font would stand out. 

![changing font color and positioning in sticker mule studio](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/64867968-055c-4fb8-b5f3-03c3c28afbfd)

I clicked the __Order prints__ button in the top right corner. 

I figured I'd order the sample pack of 10 for $9. This way I'd have enough for my family, and also some to give out for Christmas and birthdays. 

For comparison, 10 mass-produced magnets at the gift shop would have cost me $39.90. 

![ordering magnets on sticker mule studio](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1c7fc8af-2050-4ade-978a-4146f196e9d0)

###7. Double-check everything

On the final step you'll want to double-check everything. Does the text look clear? Are all the words spelled correctly? Does the image appear crisp and in focus? Did you accidentally leave some gaps or unwanted white space around the canvas? 

I was pretty happy with mine, so I added it to my cart. 

![final review on sticker mule studio](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c75cb665-038c-469e-97f1-86aeb7e8d092)

###8. Check out

On the checkout page, you'll enter or verify your shipping information, delivery date, and billing information. You'll see a note reminding you that orders created in Studio will bypass the proofing process (which you don't need because you can see exactly what the final product will look like on your screen).

![sticker mule shopping cart](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/30237214-0e70-47a2-9482-44d054b1ad43)

###9. Order confirmation

Check out, and you'll get to a final confirmation page. 

![order confirmation](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c881958b-1cc8-4b20-8028-e3a938d0d20c)

Your product will be sent to production and manufactured.

For those who didn't create their design in Studio, at this point order will go through our proofing process, where our team will send them an e-mail asking them to approve the final proof before being sent to production.

##Unboxing

Just one week later, my package arrived (two days before the estimated date).

![package from sticker mule](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/08627af1-b10f-4724-9775-6b5be314b7fe)

As usual with Sticker Mule shipments, I got a few surprises in my package including the one I was hoping for: a few packets of Sticker Mule sauce! 

But of course, what I was looking forward to most was this: my 10 magnets carefully wrapped in shrink-wrap, which I quickly unwrapped. 

And here is how my magnets turned out.

![Bryce Canyon National Park Magnet](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0fa798e7-f57e-4975-bda5-f4043f8319d6)

I couldn’t be happier. The final product blew away anything I saw in the National Park gift shop. The colors were richer, the scene more meaningful—and best of all, it wasn’t some generic photo taken by a stock photographer a decade ago. It was the actual view I experienced with my family just two months earlier.

One thing I noticed—and something many customers have pointed out—is that these magnets are surprisingly thin. But as we explain in [our article on how magnets work](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-do-magnets-work), thin doesn’t mean weak. In fact, our magnets are made with high-energy material that’s stronger than many thicker magnets. We even design them to grip securely to cars at highway speeds.

I kept a few magnets for our home, and gave the rest to friends and family. Everyone loved them. A couple of people even complimented me on "picking such nice magnets from the gift shop." Their jaws dropped when I told them I took the photo myself.

##Support your National Parks

One thing to remember is that the National Parks and the organizations that support them rely on revenue from their gift shops to support their ongoing work. The nice thing about making your own magnets is that you can use the money you save to buy other cool souvenirs.

In my case, I also decided to [make a donation](https://shop.brycecanyon.org/donate.asp) to the Bryce Canyon Association, the official nonprofit partner of the park. 

When you gift your magnets to others, consider adding a note encouraging them to visit and support the parks too.

##Create your National Park magnet today

How long did this whole process take me? Believe it or not, about 5 minutes—far less time than I spent browsing in the gift shop at the park. And remember, I'm not a professional graphic designer. But Sticker Mule Studio made me feel like I was.

Like I said, the toughest part was finding the right photo to use. Once that was done, Sticker Mule Studio made it easy to upload the photo, position it, overlay it with text, and send the design to be printed. 

When it comes to National Park magnets—or any vacation and travel magnets in general—you're no longer limited to whatever schlock you see in gift shops and rest stops. For less than the price of a souvenir shop, you can create a one-of-a-kind magnet that’s uniquely yours. Instead of settling for a generic design from a stock photographer, you get to showcase your own moments, creativity, and perspective. 

Plus, since you own the copyright, you have full control over how your artwork is used and shared.

Whether you’re designing for yourself, selling to others, or gifting a meaningful, personalized keepsake, a custom magnet is a small but powerful way to preserve your memories. And when it’s made in the USA, you can take pride in supporting local craftsmanship while bringing your vision to life. 

My Sticker Mule magnet of Bryce Canyon now sits on my fridge among all my other cherished magnets. I look forward to creating more!

![bryce canyon magnet on refrigerator](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1abea994-c0bb-4440-803e-d80401f7d6cc)

<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom magnet in Studio today" href="https://www.stickermule.com/studio" />

Create your own National Park magnets with Studio. Skip generic gift shop souvenirs and turn your favorite photo into a high-quality keepsake in minutes.

National Park Magnets - How to make your own

A parent’s guide to non-toxic, kid-safe clothing

__About the author:__ We recently launched of [kid-sized t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts) at Sticker Mule. To dive into this exciting release, we’ve invited Matthew Rhome, our Director of Quality and Efficiency, to share his expertise. With over 45 years in the t-shirt printing industry—including inventing Direct-to-Garment (DTG) technology—Matthew knows a thing or two about creating safe, high-quality apparel. In this post, he’ll explore why safety matters just as much as style when it comes to custom t-shirt printing for kids. 

Read on to learn what sets our new line apart!

##What materials are used in kids’ t-shirts?

The safety of custom shirts comes down to the materials used—fabric, dyes, inks, and finishes. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your little ones stay safe.

###Fabric materials

Kids’ t-shirts are typically made of cotton, polyester, or a blend of the two—versatile fabrics that perform well. However, the best manufacturers go beyond the basics, avoiding harmful substances like formaldehyde or toxic dyes that might linger from the finishing process.

At Sticker Mule, we take this seriously. Our kids’ shirts are manufactured to meet strict Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA) standards, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals. We source only from reputable manufacturers who prioritize safety and quality, using non-toxic dyes and child-safe fabric treatments. This means you can rest easy knowing your child’s shirt is crafted responsibly.

![t-shirt blanks ready for printing](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/62f97169-483e-4050-bd9c-a37c0b70752b)

###Printing and dyeing

Not all printing processes are created equal. While some inks and dyes may contain harmful substances like lead or phthalates, Sticker Mule takes a different approach. After decades of perfecting shirt printing, I’ve found that water-based, non-toxic inks are the ultimate solution.

Our non-toxic inks are Oeko-Tex certified, a global standard ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, heavy metals, and pesticides. This certification guarantees that every shirt we print—for kids and adults alike—is not only safe but also sustainable. At Sticker Mule, safety and quality always go hand in hand.

![packaging t-shirts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/7487092a-f34a-42ef-a303-9feac340adff)

###Key safety standards for kids’ t-shirts you should know

Comprehensive regulations exist to protect children from harmful materials in clothing. Here are the key standards that ensure printed kids’ shirts are safe:

__Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA)__

The CPSA is a U.S. law that helps regulate children’s clothing, focusing on flammability and toxic chemical limits. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforces these regulations, manages recalls, and ensures compliance to keep kids’ clothing safe. Under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), every children's shirt sold in the U.S. must meet strict safety standards and include a tracking label. This label links the shirt to its manufacturer, batch number, and production date—helping ensure traceability and consumer safety.

![CISPA batch number on youth-sized t-shirts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/96a5bd4a-91e7-4d82-a232-c9e99e18dbb6) 

In this example, the number "125" serves as a unique identifier for the batch of this shirt. In the rare event that the CPSC needs to inspect a specific shirt, this identifier helps us determine exactly when it was produced.

__Oeko-Tex certification__

![oeko-tex logo on sticker mule shirts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b27324fd-688a-44a2-916c-71991c15569f)

The Oeko-Tex certification is a global standard that guarantees inks, dyes, and fabrics are free from harmful chemicals such as pesticides, lead, and formaldehyde. At Sticker Mule, we exclusively use Oeko-Tex-certified inks, and we print all of our shirts in-house, so you can trust that every shirt we produce has been rigorously tested for safety. When you choose our products, you’re choosing peace of mind.

##Not all t-shirt printers are created equal

Not every printer prioritizes safety, especially for kids. Some cut corners on quality or skip certifications to save costs. Others outsource their printing to the cheapest contractor and have no control over the production process or what type of ink is used.

It’s essential to choose a trusted company like Sticker Mule for custom kids' t-shirts, where safety is the cornerstone of everything we do. We’ve produced thousands of shirts with safety and quality in mind, ensuring every product meets the highest standards.

Before choosing a printer, ask the tough questions:

What inks do they use?

- Are their materials certified?
- What safety measures do they follow?
- Are their shirts truly non-toxic?

Reliable printers will have the answers, and your child’s safety is worth the extra care.

![family wearing sticker mule custom t-shirts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/41bc4f31-1bfe-4d2c-86e1-e9ecb07df431)

At Sticker Mule, we proudly print every t-shirt in-house at our own facilities in the USA and Italy, ensuring unparalleled quality in every order. Our dedicated team carefully oversees each step of the process, maintaining the strictest standards.

We’re committed to crafting t-shirts that are not only stylish but also safe—because when it comes to kids, compromise is never an option.

<ButtonCta text="Order kid's t-shirts today" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts" />


Discover Sticker Mule’s kid-sized t-shirts—crafted with non-toxic, Oeko-Tex-certified inks and CPSA-compliant materials. Learn from our Director of Quality why safety matters as much as style.

A parent’s guide to finding non-toxic, kid-safe clothing

Fridge magnets: A definitive history


Fridge magnets. You collect them when in your travels and get them as keepsakes from friends or from the pizza place around the corner. You use them to fix little odds and ends to your fridge: family pictures, unpaid bills, shopping lists, reminders of urgent to-dos from months ago

If you're like most people, you may not give your fridge magnets much thought at all. They're kind of just there, staring from their cool abode while you come and go.

But at some point, these little collectibles became a part of our daily lives. When and how did that happen? Today we'll take a look at the history of fridge magnets and how they found their way to everyone's homes.

##The origins of magnets

To no one's surprise, the story of *fridge* magnets is tied closely to that of fridges. 
Magnets themselves, however, had been around a while. Lodestones — a type of magnetized iron ore — had been discovered as far back as 2500 BC, and magnetic properties had been employed in compasses since the year 1100 or so. 

But while magnets were no novelty when the first commercial fridges were made available, just before the 1920s, it was only around that time that the newly-discovered, more permanent steel magnets started finding their way into commercial applications, such as early electric motors and generators.


![An early 1920s "frigidaire", but no cute magnets to be found](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4f1bb2c1-1ba5-4b98-bbd6-dedaa0c57204)
*An early 1920s "frigidaire", but no cute magnets to be found*

##The 1950s: The early years

The 1950s marked a turning point—not for magnets themselves, but for refrigerator design. As enameled steel became the industry standard, refrigerators gained a smooth, durable, and, most importantly, __magnetic__ surface

![Steel refrigerator doors enable a new art form](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6f443493-12fe-45a5-8b3f-d249ce644f44)

At first, this change was purely practical, making fridges easier to clean and available in a variety of colors to match the booming post-war consumer culture. But unintentionally, it also set the stage for something new. With metallic doors now common in homes, magnets suddenly had a new purpose beyond industrial applications.

The biggest innovation in refrigerators and magnets came with the introduction of the alnico magnetic alloy, which replaced traditional door latches. This upgrade made fridge doors more reliable and eliminated the safety risks posed to children by older latch mechanisms.

![early magnets were scientific curiosity items](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/32adc430-d295-4f11-a7a9-a2a1b1eeea3a)

Although decorative fridge magnets weren’t yet a widespread trend, the conditions were now perfect. In the coming decades, as advertising, tourism, and household organization grew, the humble fridge door would transform into a display board for reminders, souvenirs, and personal expression.

##The 1960s: The dawn of decorative fridge magnets

In the 1960s, refrigerator magnets were a far cry from the sleek, colorful, flat designs we’re used to today. They were more rudimentary, often clunky, and reflected the materials and manufacturing limits of the time. 

Fridge magnets existed but weren’t the flexible, fully magnetic items we associate with the term now. Early in the decade, they were typically small, rigid objects—think ceramic or plastic shapes with a tiny, hard magnet glued or embedded on the back. These weren’t "magnets" in the modern sense where the whole thing sticks; the magnet was just a component. 

Common designs included basic geometric shapes, letters, numbers, or simple figurines—like fruit, animals, or advertising logos. They were often chunky, with the magnet (usually a brittle ferrite or alnico type) protruding slightly, making them less flush against the fridge. 

Colors were limited—muted reds, blues, yellows, or plain white—due to basic painting or molding tech. They were usually imported from Hong Kong or Japan.

![a set of fruit magnets from the 1960s selling on eBay](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/96a2ec63-486f-4165-8fee-ccec98e2651e)

At this stage, fridge magnets were still more functional than fun. That changed late in the decade when __Sam Hardcastle__, an inventor and mold maker working with the space industry, was tasked with designing magnetic letters and numbers for use on large metallic charts. 

Instead of using traditional magnetic materials, he experimented with mixing __iron oxide (essentially rust powder) with vinyl__, creating a  flexible, fully magnetic material—meaning the entire object, not just a glued-on piece, stuck to metal. 

Hardcastle founded a company called Ad Specialities. His company produced molded, three-dimensional items, often hand-painted or dipped in vinyl. If you were around in the 1960s and 1970s, you probably remember one of Harcastle's most iconic creations: state-shaped magnets (like Missouri or Texas) about a quarter-inch thick, with raised details—maybe a little cow or cactus for flair. 

![A set of metal state magnets from Classic Magnets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ded27cf1-d50a-42e6-a27b-64a359869dfb)

They weren’t flat like today’s printed ones; they had a tactile, sculpted feel, sometimes with a glossy finish. Colors got bolder as vinyl allowed it—bright reds, greens, or blues—but still not the photo-realistic prints we see now. These magnets were bigger and heavier than earlier versions, designed to hold papers securely, and often doubled as souvenirs or promo giveaways.

Today, Ad Specialities no longer exists, a company named Ideaman, Incorporated was founded in 1992 and [continues to produce magnets](http://classicmagnets.com/history-of-the-classic-magnet/) true to Hardcastle's original designs as Classic Magnets.

##The 1970s: Fridge magnets become fun

The evolution of fridge magnets took a significant step forward in 1972 with the release of Fisher-Price's iconic "School Days Desk"—an educational toy featuring colorful magnetic letters and numbers. While similar concepts had been introduced earlier by companies like Child Guidance, Fisher-Price’s version was a game-changer.

These game sets included their own metal boards, but was there really a need for that? Inevitably, all those eye-catching magnetic characters would end up in the biggest piece of metal in every household: the fridge.

![School Days Play Desk as seen on ThisOldToy.com](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6e5f60a7-5052-4301-9c55-8691b40ffffc)

Around the same time, another inventor, William Zimmerman, went into the fridge magnet business with his "Magic Magnets", flat magnets with cartoon figures, smiley faces, and other playful characters. His magnets also included funny or inspirational phrases. 

Zimmerman was also the first to score a contract to make the first refrigerator magnets for the Walt Disney Company, while his son formed a rival magnet company landing a contract to make magnets for the Peanuts franchise.

__The introduction of magnets featuring popular intellectual properties was a turning point in refrigerator magnet history__. Cartoon characters, television mascots, and movie tie-ins became widely available, marking the beginning of fridge magnets as collectibles rather than just decorations.

With the new popularity, fridge magnets soon attained collectible status. A teacher who owns one of the largest collections of magnets in Britain, for instance, was [started as far back as 1987](https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-38969439). And the [largest currently on record](https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/68573-largest-collection-of-fridge-magnets)? That's a mere 35.000-fridge magnet collection, proudly owned by Louise Greenfarb of Las Vegas, who's collected them since the '70s. 

(If you're jealous, don't be. Start now and you, too, may have a few tens of thousands of little refrigerator magnets in… fifty years. Just don't expect to have your fridge hold them all!)

![An example of magic magnets that you can purchase on eBay](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0984f070-7d25-416d-9176-d0141bf0893f)

##The 1980s: The golden age of fridge magnets

During the 1980s and 1990s, fridge magnets surged even further in popularity. From simple promotional tools, they now turned into widespread collectibles and decorative items. 

Around the world, souvenir shops began mass-producing magnets featuring landmarks, flags, and cultural symbols, turning them into must-have travel mementos. At the same time, brands and businesses ramped up their use of flexible rubberized magnets for advertising, offering customers free, practical reminders of their services. 

Advances in manufacturing—particularly the use of flexible, lightweight magnetic strips made from ferrite powder and rubber—made it cheap and easy to mass-produce magnets in all shapes and sizes. The availability of injection-molded magnets also allowed for more intricate and colorful designs, making novelty magnets a common sight in homes.

###Fridge magnets take on new roles

One of the biggest trends of the decade was __mass-produced souvenir magnets__. While travel-related magnets had been around in earlier years, the 1980s saw an unprecedented boom. Gift shops in major cities, tourist attractions, and amusement parks stocked magnets featuring landmarks, mascots, and state-themed designs.

Another major development of the decade was the rise of __kitsch and novelty magnets__. Companies embraced magnets as a form of self-expression, creating designs with funny slogans, cartoon characters, and pop culture references. Flexible magnetic sheets allowed for endless creativity. These were impulse buys at gift shops or party favors, adding a splash of personality to suburban kitchens.

Finally, __promotional magnets__ became ubiquitous. Local businesses—from pizza places to real estate agents—began handing out fridge magnets as a way to keep their contact information front and center. Companies began competing with each other for an increasingly shrinking share of real estate on refrigerators. 

![refrigerator magnets sold by ebay seller hollys attic](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e0cc5350-32fc-437d-8b89-92d4382f6a2d)

##The 1990s: Fridge magnets get even more creative

The 1990s saw __photo-realistic printed magnets__ emerge, turning fridges into mini photo albums. Families and businesses alike embraced high-resolution images for both personal keepsakes and colorful promotional giveaways.

Interactive sets—like magnetic poetry kits and mix-and-match face magnets—became kitchen staples, inviting playful word games and silly character mash-ups. At the same time, __pop-culture icons__ from Disney, Looney Tunes, sitcoms, and blockbuster movies continued to lined fridge doors everywhere.

![the first magnetic poetry kits](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/2cc0356a-b1a9-47d6-81ef-1b640e91b46f)

##The 2000s: Personalization and mass customization

In the early 2000s, __a shift toward personalization__ dramatically reshaped the world of fridge magnets. Families began using magnets to showcase personal memories, transforming kitchens into galleries of family photos and milestones. 

Digital cameras were becoming common, online sharing was on the rise. This led to __customized magnets emerging as a popular way to preserve special moments__ — from milestone birthdays to quiet everyday snapshots.

With mass customization made possible by advances in digital printing and the rise of the online world, customers could now upload their own images to create magnets that were as unique as their personal stories. This new level of personalization led to niche products ranging from __custom wedding and baby announcement magnets__ to personalized holiday cards. Companies quickly adapted their production processes to handle bespoke orders, meeting the growing consumer demand for products that felt intimate and one-of-a-kind.

![save the date wedding magnet](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/27aa95c2-d561-42cc-ae15-5d671b055296)

Retro designs maintained their allure here too, as nostalgia kept classic, souvenir-style magnets in the market. Travelers collected magnets as tangible memories of their adventures, balancing new personalized options with a love for vintage aesthetics. On top of that, material innovations such as thinner, more robust flexible magnetic sheets allowed for larger and more elegant designs. 

##The 2010s: The digital shift and fridge space decline

The 2010s brought two important changes to the world of magnets.

First, smartphones and digital assistants took over many of the tasks once reserved for fridge magnets. Photos, shopping lists, and appointment reminders all migrated to apps. __Magnets consequently lost some of their utility__, but held onto their decorative role. What else was there to add color and character to your kitchen décor?

Secondly came the popularization of stainless-steel refrigerators. These became the must-have appliance of the decade, but at a cost: non-magnetic doors for many of them. Suddenly, the classic fridge gallery, cluttered with magnets collected over years and decades, grew sparse. For many households, the beloved habit of pinning up notes went away.

But through all these shifts, the souvenir magnet lost none of its charm. Travelers still bought and traded magnets as small, but tangible reminders of their journeys. On [online forums](https://web.archive.org/web/20100130194112/http://www.fridgemagnetscommunity.eu/forum.php), magnet aficionados even harnessed the power of the internet to trade magnets with other collectors from all over the world.

On fridges, lockers, and office cubicles, fridge magnets proved that even in a digital age, the joy of a physical memento endures.

##The 2020s

Thanks to platforms like Etsy, independent artists now sell __unique hand-crafted magnets worldwide__.  

Eco-friendly materials and “buy one, plant one” initiatives reflect growing consumer demand for sustainable, stylish home accessories.

At the same time, 3D printing has unlocked new possibilities: intricate miniatures, interlocking puzzle pieces, and tactile spinners add playfulness to décor. There's a whole new world of possibilities for custom fridge magnets out there.

###Custom fridge magnets — a rising trend

One of the biggest trends of all in this decade is __customization__. 

Custom products are everywhere, and fridge magnets are no exception. A family picture, a cute shot of your favorite feline moment, a company logo, or anything else your imagination comes up — whatever it is, you can have it __printed, die-cut__, and stuck to your fridge __in a matter of days__ — something that just a few years ago only huge companies could dream about.

This, of course, leads us directly to what we at Sticker Mule are all about. Our goal is to continue to democratize the creation—and selling—of custom magnets, which is why we let you create your own flexible or acrylic magnets and sell them on your own Sticker Mule store. 

![Custom fridge magnets are more popular than ever](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1113b97e-1449-46ef-9db3-ae88eea8f4b6)

##What next for fridge magnets?

Despite the rise of minimalist home aesthetics and digital organization tools, fridge magnets have lost none of their appeal. While our lives turn more and more virtual, our fridge magnets remain a tangible reminder of a more real way of living — adventures we had, perhaps, or moments of connection with family and loved ones.

Collectibles, advertising tools, custom mementos — in whichever shape and form we use them, fridge magnets continue to stick around, both literally and culturally. In fact, not that long ago [it was found that over 87% of Americans use refrigerator magnets](https://web.archive.org/web/20130614181222/https://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57588389/pulse-most-americans-have-refrigerator-magnets/). Kind of a lot.

Yes, the world went through a lot of change since fridge magnets first brightened our fridge doors. But the little decorative magnetic souvenirs remain unbothered. As long as refrigerators are around, odds are we'll continue sticking fridge magnets to our doors. 


Discover the fascinating history of fridge magnets—from their industrial origins to becoming nostalgic souvenirs and customizable keepsakes.

How to apply stickers to a laptop​ like a pro

![Laptop decorated with stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0ad3a881-8f32-4304-afd4-f42a75b78904)

## The history of stickers on laptops

For years, it's been a common sight to see people adorning their laptops with stickers. This trend started back in the 1980's when Apple started bundling their colorful rainbow logo with new computers, which people stuck to their monitors and computers. 

![original apple computer stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/26d10892-6b9c-47f0-b10a-adf0914ce81d)

As laptops grew in popularity during the late 1990s and early 2000s, the open-source community became a counterculture pushing back against the dominance of tech giants like Apple and Microsoft. A big part of this movement was developers adorning their laptops with stickers of their favorite open-source software—showcasing their allegiance while at the same time showing off a little of their street cred. 

The rest is history. Tech workers brought their laptops to meetings, where their counterparts in other departments like marketing, human resources, and Creative couldn't resist the trend. 

## Stickers on laptops today

Today, of course, it's common to see people putting stickers not just on laptops but on smartphones, e-book readers, tablets, and every other device you can think of. But the laptop continues to be a favorite canvas. 

While the trend of adorning your laptop with stickers began in tech communities, today it's evolved into a powerful tool for personal branding and community identity. 

Personalizing your laptop with stickers is a fun and creative way to show off your style. Whether you’re highlighting your favorite brands, hobbies, or custom designs, applying stickers the right way ensures they look great, last long, and can be removed without hassle. 

At Sticker Mule, we want your laptop to be an expression of you—so we’ve created this guide to help you apply, remove, and care for your stickers like a pro.

If you're ready to put stickers on your laptop, here's our expert advice:

## Plan ahead: creating a long-term laptop sticker layout

Many laptop owners don’t apply all their stickers at once—they add to their collection over time. To ensure your layout evolves seamlessly:

### 1) Start with a vision
![planning layout for laptop stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8460d514-d171-4563-95ea-a26975ef24f1)

- Decide on your style: Are you going for full coverage or a minimalist look?
- Choose an anchor sticker to serve as the centerpiece and design around it.

### 2) Reserve functional areas
- Avoid covering vents, ports, or logos. These spots should remain clear for usability and heat dissipation.
- Leave open spaces for future stickers so your layout stays balanced and cohesive.

### 3) Document your design
![document your laptop sticker design](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c4616270-f121-44e0-bc02-4bd4abf36183)

- Take a photo of your current layout. It’ll help you visualize changes and maintain consistency as you add new stickers.

### 4) Consider removability

- Use durable stickers like Sticker Mule’s vinyl options, which can be removed cleanly if you want to change your design.

##How to Apply Stickers Perfectly

Applying stickers may seem simple, but careful techniques can elevate your results:

###Step 1: Prepare the surface

![preparing laptop surface for stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/3da5942a-3b53-4202-a5b2-f044730c94e8)

- Clean your laptop with alcohol wipes or a mild cleaner to remove dirt, grease, and dust.
- Let the surface dry completely for optimal adhesion.

###Step 2: Plan your placement

![trying out sticker placement before permanently sticking them](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ceeb31b1-9a80-458f-8fa8-26dde347dadf)

- Arrange your stickers on the laptop without removing their backing. Use low-tack masking tape to hold them temporarily in place.
- Experiment with layouts until you’re satisfied with the balance and spacing.

###Step 3: Stick lightly at first

![stick your sticker lightly at first](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a6a5686f-8b24-4ee6-b38c-e11fc10f6195)

- Peel off a small section of the sticker’s backing and stick it lightly to the surface.
- Avoid pressing down firmly right away—this makes it easier to adjust the positioning if needed.

###Step 4: Apply and smooth

![firmly sticking your sticker to the laptop](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/35d73396-328d-40b1-a9df-e77489d5b6cc)

- Once satisfied, press the sticker down from one edge to the other, smoothing as you go to prevent air bubbles.
- Don't press down too hard; 
- For larger stickers, work in small sections, peeling the backing as you smooth it down.

###Step 5: Remove air bubbles 

![using a credit card to remove air bubbles](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/908e8e37-3f74-4b5c-a108-738c7bc8de6f)

- Gently smooth out any trapped air with your fingers or a soft plastic card, working from the center outward.

##Choosing the best stickers for your laptop

![montage of great laptop stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/94af1052-1ad3-4295-83c8-1c84ec78499d)

Not all stickers are created equal. For laptops, opt for:

- __Durable vinyl stickers: __These are water-resistant, fade-resistant, and tough enough to handle daily wear.
- __Easy-to-remove stickers: __High-quality stickers like those from Sticker Mule can be removed cleanly without leaving residue, perfect for long-term or evolving layouts.
- __Personalized designs: __Choose designs that resonate with your personality or brand. Mix sizes for visual variety and layer smaller stickers around larger focal points for a dynamic look.

## Removing stickers safely

Switching up your design? Here’s how to remove stickers without damaging your laptop:

### Warm the adhesive

![loosening stickers with a hair dryer](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/01ec685d-16eb-486b-aecd-88fd0b1c7f53)

- Use a hairdryer on low for a few seconds to soften the adhesive. This makes peeling easier.

### Peel slowly

![slowly peeling the sticker, making sure the tack is cleanly lifted](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/09119537-db49-4cac-ac2d-7ba74a8ad883)

- Peel the sticker back slowly at a 45-degree angle to minimize adhesive residue. You'll want to keep a very close eye to make sure the adhesive is getting pulled with the sticker. If you feel the adhesive separating from the sticker and sticking to the laptop, slow down your peeling even more.  If the sticker resists, reapply heat and try again.

###Clean off residue
- Use a soft cloth with isopropyl alcohol to remove any leftover adhesive. Avoid abrasive tools or harsh chemicals. For more details, read our post on [how to remove sticker residue](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-remove-sticker-residue "how to remove sticker residue").

##Caring for Your Laptop Stickers

To keep your stickers looking vibrant and your laptop clean:

- __Clean gently:__ Wipe around stickers regularly with a soft cloth to prevent dirt buildup.

- __Protect your laptop:__ While Sticker Mule stickers are heat- and fade-resistant, excessive heat or sunlight may harm your laptop itself.

##Troubleshooting common issues

Even with care, you might encounter challenges. Here’s how to handle them:

- __Air bubbles:__ Use a soft card or your fingers to push bubbles toward the edges.
- __Crooked sticker:__ Gently peel back the sticker and reposition it before pressing down firmly. If needed, use a plastic card to get under the sticker edge to gently work it loose.
- __Sticky residue:__ Dab isopropyl alcohol on a cloth and wipe gently to remove it.

##Why choose Sticker Mule for laptop stickers?

![choose sticker mule for the best laptop stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f77854c5-17d1-4e0b-9b29-4dd47f85021b)

Going back to the history of stickers on laptops, did you know that Sticker Mule was there for the whole thing? Our subsidiary [Unixsticker](https://www.stickermule.com/unixstickers) was the leading provider of stickers for the open source community. And if you've ever gotten free stickers at a trade show, there's a good chance that Sticker Mule printed them! And even though it's years later, if you find a laptop from a decade ago with a Sticker Mule sticker, chances are it's still stuck securely and still looks like new. 

Sticker Mule’s stickers are designed to make laptop personalization easy and long-lasting:

- __Durable and vibrant:__ Resistant to water, fading, and wear, they’re perfect for everyday use.
- __User-friendly adhesive:__ Sticks firmly but allows for clean removal when it’s time for a change.
- __Custom options:__ Bring your own designs to life or explore Sticker Mule’s extensive library of stylish options.

With Sticker Mule, your laptop can become a stylish extension of your personality. Ready to start? Explore our [custom sticker options](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers) today and bring your vision to life!

<ButtonCta text="Start making custom laptop stickers today" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/laptop-stickers" />

Learn how to personalize your laptop with stickers! Discover expert tips from Sticker Mule on applying, removing, and caring for laptop stickers.

How to put stickers on a laptop​ like a pro

How to turn your photos into Studio Ghibli art with ChatGPT

If you've been anywhere on social media this week, you've probably noticed a trend. 

On March 25, 2025, OpenAI introduced 4o Image Generation. One of the first hilarious trends to emerge from this was people taking family photos and asking ChatGPT to convert them into Studio Ghibli—style illustrations. 

For those not familiar with Studio Ghibli, that's the Japanese animation studio founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki, Toshio Suzuki, Isao Takahata, and Yasuyoshi Tokuma which produced iconic films like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Kiki's Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, Howl's Moving Castle, and many others. Studio Ghibli was revolutionary in elevating animation as an art form and helping usher in anime's global popularity. 

One of the first was [this X post by engineer Grant Slatton](https://x.com/GrantSlatton/status/1904631016356274286), transforming a family photo into what looks like a frame from a Studio Ghibli film.

![grant slatton studio ghibli photo transformation](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6038b4bb-a1d5-4533-9c8d-8b9a69c11fc3)

## How do I turn my own photo into a Studio Ghibli-inspired image?

The first thing you'll need is the paid version of ChatGPT. 

Find the photo that you want to "Ghibli-fy". 

I decided to go with one of my favorite stock photo subjects, András István Arató. 

Arató is better known as "Hide the Pain Harold" a name given to him in 2011 by the Internet after they discovered a series of [stock photo shoots](https://www.shutterstock.com/search/hide-pain-harold) that featured him in various poses but the same winning smile in all of them. The Internet of 2011 being what it was, the rumor went around that his plaintive eyes betrayed some horrible tragedy he was hiding. (FYI, Arató's been interviewed many times about his sudden Internet fame and don't worry, he's just fine IRL). 

![iconic hide the pain harold smile](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/88860cf8-7b93-42b1-aa3d-cac1d62d5655)

As far as my process, I went through a series of prompts in ChatGPT. Note that OpenAI's image generation algorithm has already been trained on Studio Ghibli's artwork, so you can spend less time tuning the prompts to get the right style, and more time just making fine-tune adjustments. Here's the process I went through to get his face just right.

![transforming a photo into studio ghibli style](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/2e8a83ec-ac48-46a1-9407-0e82b803653a)

I think my last prompt went something like, "I still want a smile, but I want his 'hide the pain' face" like the original!" I was pretty thrilled with what I ended up with. 

![hide the pain harold in ghibli form](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/396327c8-6048-4920-a7f9-3555d0274daa)

Here's the best part. After downloading the image from ChatGPT, I can immediately use it to create products on Sticker Mule. Here's what my creation would look like as a T-shirt.

![hide the pain harold t-shirt](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0ebdadea-7e07-41f3-af80-a0526a4d9a92)

There's not a whole lot of proofing that needs to be done because ChatGPT has done a nice job with the colors, resolution, and level of detail.

## Wait...is this legal?

While copyright law and trademark law is always changing, the quick answer is yes. OpenAI-generated art is generally free for personal and commercial use, but as always, check with OpenAI's latest [terms of use](https://openai.com/policies/terms-of-use/) to ensure compliance, especially if you plan on selling these. 

However, there's one important principle to keep in mind. 

You cannot infringe on the trademark of Studio Ghibli's intellectual property, including recognizable characters, logos, or other copyrighted material. So while you can recreate your family in the style of Studio Ghibli, you can't do anything that implies that your work is associated with Studio Ghibli, nor show yourself standing next to Totoro (sorry!) 

## Why isn't it working for me? 

There may be a few reasons this isn't working for you.

__- Your version of ChatGPT doesn't support it__

As of this writing, you do need to be on a paid version of ChatGPT (Plus, Pro, or Team). The Free subscription tier continues to use DALL-E 3 image generation vs. GPT-4o. OpenAI has said they will eventually roll it out to the free tier, but that's been delayed.

__- You haven't updated your app__

If you're using a smartphone app, you'll need to update your app in the App Store or Google Play Store on your iPhone or Android device.

__- ChatGPT is overloaded at the moment__

OpenAI has reported that the virality of this feature has taken even them by surprise, so it's likely you'll experience slow image generation times. Some people are reporting they're having better luck going directly to [Sora](http://sora.com/), OpenAI's image generation tool. You'll need your ChatGPT login to access it (again, paid only at this point).

## What else can OpenAI do?

While this meme is only one day old as of this writing, I have a feeling you'll be seeing a lot of different answers to this question in your social network feeds in the coming weeks and months. Here's just a taste.

![chatgpt images in various cartoon and art styles](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6b62a141-deab-4316-85ed-0b9eba2bab54)

Hide the Pain Harold, and Studio Ghibli are just the start. Use ChatGPT to transform photos of your family, friends, co-workers, and even pets into any style of cartoon character or artist. Use our simple and straightforward process to turn them into posters, keychains, stickers, magnets, and t-shirts that'll make standout (and hilarious) gifts for birthdays, Christmas, or any special occasion. 

You bring the creativity (with a little AI magic), and we’ll deliver top-tier products you won’t find anywhere else.

Discover how to transform your photos into stunning Studio Ghibli–style illustrations using OpenAI's ChatGPT 4o image generator. 

How to Turn Your Photos into Studio Ghibli Art with ChatGPT’s 4o Image Generator

How do magnets work? Strength, materials & more

While Sticker Mule is best known for stickers, we've quietly become a leader in magnets, too. We've sold thousands of [custom flexible magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-magnets) (also known as vinyl magnets or fridge magnets) and recently introduced [acrylic magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/acrylic-magnets).

We're confident that we offer the best custom magnets in the industry—but don’t take our word for it. With [over 12,000 unfiltered reviews](https://www.stickermule.com/reviews/products/custom-magnets), our customers consistently praise the quality and strength of our magnets.

That quality is no accident. Before finalizing our design, our team rigorously tested samples from nearly every magnet manufacturer, evaluating factors like:

- Print quality and precision cutting on our equipment
- White point and gloss level to match our stickers
- Adhesion strength to various surfaces

Through this process, we've developed deep expertise in magnets. Our team shared some insights on how magnets work and practical tips to help keep them strong.

##How do magnets work?

When it comes to custom magnets, strength and durability depend on several key factors:

###1. What the magnets are made of

![types of magnets](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/71dfd259-2dc6-4ba7-b247-61169c5f63fa)

Custom magnets are typically made from one of the following materials:

- __Ferrite (Ceramic)__: Made from a mix of iron oxide and ceramic materials, these magnets are hard and brittle. They make a "tapping" sound when you hit them with a fingernail and can shatter if dropped or struck with force.

- __Flexible__: Composed of ferrite powder (iron oxide mixed with other metal oxides) and combined with a rubber or plastic binder, these magnets are pressed into sheets and cut into shapes. They are thin, lightweight, and make a dull "thud" when tapped with a fingernail.

- __Neodymium (Rare Earth)__: The strongest magnets available, made from neodymium, iron, and boron. These magnets are typically coated to prevent chipping or cracking.

![raw neodymium](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b7721834-a92c-419f-9a3d-c07b30dffc61)

The quality of raw materials plays a major role in magnet strength. Not all flexible magnets, for example, are created equal—you’ve likely encountered flimsy business card magnets that barely cling to a surface, while others hold firm like glue.

###2. How the magnets are made

Choosing high-quality raw materials is only the first step.

During manufacturing, factories apply a strong external magnetic field—using either electromagnetic coils or permanent magnets—to align the material’s natural magnetic domains, creating distinct north and south poles.

For specialized magnets like flexible magnets, manufacturers use magnetizing fixtures or jigs to create a striped pole pattern, ensuring a strong, localized magnetic pull.

The strength of a magnet also depends on:

- The quality of the equipment used in production
- The skill of the factory workers
- The level of quality control throughout the process

All these factors combine to determine how strong—and reliable—a magnet will be.

##All about magnet strength

![tool measuring magnet strength](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e7b665da-b60b-47f4-a6d4-aa33c79f33a4)

Magnet strength is typically measured in pounds (or kilograms) of pull force. 

- __A magnet with one pound of pull force__ exerts a maximum of one pound of force on a metal surface.

- __Flexible magnets__ are measured in pounds per square foot, indicating the strength of a sheet of flexible material.

- __Neodymium magnets__ are graded by their __maximum energy product (BHmax)__, which determines their overall strength. These range from __N35__ (weaker, used for crafts and toys) to __N52__ (the strongest, used in aerospace, scientific, and industrial applications).

This grading system helps categorize magnets based on their power and intended use.

###Sticker Mule's flexible magnet strength

At Sticker Mule, our flexible magnets have a magnetic pull of __65 pounds per square foot__—meaning one square foot of material can hold up to 65 pounds. These are thin, __high-energy magnets__, making them some of the best fridge magnets available.

__Debunking a common myth: thicker ≠ stronger__

Many people assume that a thicker magnet is always stronger, but that’s not necessarily true. Strength depends more on the quality of raw materials and the manufacturing process than on thickness alone.

For example, in 2017, we used a thicker 20 mil (0.508mm) magnet with a magnetic pull of 60 lbs/sq ft. While most customers were satisfied, we knew we could do better. We developed a thinner 15 mil (0.381mm) magnet with a stronger pull of 65 lbs/sq ft—resulting in magnets that cling more securely to refrigerators and even to cars at highway speeds.

__Real-world testing__

We tested our flexible magnets in-house, and here’s what a 2x2-inch magnet can hold:

![flexible magnet strength - paper on a refrigerator](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/84f7dab3-612f-488d-8d33-e272c249cce0)

- __Three (3) sheets__ of standard __8.5" x 11" copy paper__
- __One thin 5" x 7" photo card__ (0.008" thick, 0.20 ounces)

__Built to last__

Magnetic pull is just one factor when choosing a magnet. We go the extra mile to source magnets that are not only strong but also durable and weather-resistant. Our magnets can withstand rain, snow, and sleet, performing in temperatures ranging from -15°F to 160°F.

__Try them yourself__

We’ve tested competitors, and we’re confident ours are the best. But don’t take our word for it—[order a sample of 10 flexible magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/magnet-samples) for just $9 and see for yourself.

###Sticker Mule's acrylic magnet strength

Our acrylic magnets are made from clear, die-cut acrylic, securely attached to a neodymium magnet. Each magnet is cut to a minimum size of 0.75" x 0.75" and a maximum of 3" x 3".

Here are specs for the neodymium magnet itself:

- __Diameter__: 10mm
- __Thickness__: 1mm
- __Magnetic Grade__: N42 (42 MGOe)
- __Nickel-coated__ for durability and protection

__Real-World Holding Power__

Regardless of size (1"x1", 2"x2", or 3"x3"), an acrylic magnet can hold:

![acrylic magnet strength - papers on a fridge](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9cb36b26-6801-4d69-a348-2f4d7e78d122)

- Eight (8) sheets of standard 8.5" x 11" copy paper
- One thick greeting card (0.027" thick, 0.55 ounces, 5.5" x 8")

As you can see, neodymium magnets are the gold standard when it comes to strength and reliability.

###All about magnet strength

__What materials do magnets stick to?__

Yes, the material you stick a magnet to can impact its strength. Different materials have varying levels of magnetic attraction.

![magnets sticking against iron and steel](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/cbb91cba-0eda-4b92-b933-16e0477bd159)

- __Iron__ is highly magnetic.

- __Steel__ (an iron alloy) may or may not be magnetic, depending on its composition and any coatings or plating it has.

  - __Low-carbon steel__ is usually highly magnetic and is found in refrigerator body panels, washing machines, dryers, water heaters, cars, and some kitchen items like baking sheets, pots, and pans.

  - Certain __stainless steels__, especially those with high chromium content for corrosion resistance, are not magnetic.

- The following metals are considered non-ferrious metals and aren't magnetic. If you're hoping to stick magnets to your solid gold refrigerator, you're out of luck.

  - __Aluminum__
  - __Copper__
  - __Brass__ (copper + zinc alloy)
  - __Bronze__ (copper + tin alloy)
  - __Lead__
  - __Tin__
  - __Titanium__
  - __Zinc__
  - __Gold__
  - __Silver__
  - __Platinum__

__Other factors that affect magnet strength__

Aside from magnet quality and the type of metal it adheres to, several other factors can influence magnetic strength:

![factors that affect magnet strength](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/adefbae1-48cd-40bd-af35-14abcea9aea7)

- __Heat__: High temperatures can disrupt a magnet’s internal structure. If a magnet reaches its Curie point, it can become permanently demagnetized. Keep magnets away from ovens and heat-generating appliances.

- __Other magnets__: Exposure to strong magnetic fields can misalign a magnet’s domains. Store magnets carefully—don’t just toss them in a drawer.

- __Physical shock__: Dropping or striking a magnet repeatedly can knock its atomic structure out of alignment, weakening its strength.

- __Corrosion & oxidation__: Keep magnets dry. Rust and oxidation can degrade their structure, especially neodymium magnets, which are typically coated to prevent damage.

- __Electrical currents__: AC power generates fluctuating magnetic fields, which can disrupt a magnet’s alignment.

By understanding these factors, you can ensure your magnets remain strong and effective for as long as possible.

###Can you restore a weakened magnet?

If stored properly, magnets should retain their strength for a long time. To prevent weakening:

- Store magnets in attracting pairs (north pole to south pole).

- Avoid high temperatures, which can disrupt their magnetic structure.

- Keep magnets dry to prevent corrosion.

If a magnet has weakened over time but still attracts metal, you may be able to re-magnetize it using one of the following methods.

__How to re-magnetize a weakened magnet__

![how to re-magnetize a weak magnet](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/722f6125-8059-4e82-8427-b7758dd384ba)

__1. Using a stronger magnet__

This method works for both neodymium and ferrite-based magnets that have lost strength but still have some magnetic pull.

Steps:

1. Get a strong neodymium magnet—our N42 acrylic magnets work well.

  - Identify the poles of both magnets.

  - The north pole of the strong magnet should align with the north pole of the weak magnet.

1. Test polarity by checking if the magnets attract rather than repel. For precision, use a compass—the red (north) end will be attracted to the magnet’s south pole, and vice versa.

1. Stroke the weakened magnet in one direction only (not back and forth).

 - Start at one end and drag the strong magnet across the surface of the weak magnet.

 - Lift the strong magnet off at the end, then repeat from the starting position.

1. Repeat 20-50 times. If all goes well, this action should realign the weakened magnet’s domains.

__2. Using an electromagnet or coil__

If you have access to electronics expertise, you can try using an electromagnet or a coil to generate a strong magnetic field around the weakened magnet. This mimics the industrial magnetizing machines we use in manufacturing.

- Limitations of re-magnetization

These techniques work best when the magnet is structurally intact and hasn’t been damaged by:

- Excessive heat (above its Curie temperature)
- Severe corrosion
- Breakage or cracking
- Inferior material quality

If the magnet has suffered any of these issues, restoration may not be possible. In that case, replacement is the best option.

##Are magnets safe?

Household magnets generally pose no significant risk for adults and older children.

Neodymium magnets were in the news a few years ago when tiny magnets that looked like ball bearings were marketed as toys. There was a very real danger of toddlers and small children swallowing the magnets. Generally speaking, swallowing one magnet is harmless. But swallowing two magnets can attract inside the digestive tract, which can cause severe injury or worse. Thankfully, these toys are no longer marketed for kids but for adults. 

Sticker Mule's neodymium magnets are securely glued to an acrylic surface that's a minimum of 1" x 1", so accidental ingestion is highly unlikely. That said, we do recommend that if your magnet will be marketed or distributed to those with pets or young children that you include instructions to keep them away from young children and animals. 

Magnets may also interfere with older hard drives, pacemakers, cards with magnetic strips, or other electronic devices. Newer phones and laptops generally have sufficient shielding to keep them safe, but we still recommend keeping strong magnets away from them. 

##Conclusion: choosing and maintaining the best magnets

![best quality magnets from sticker mule](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b064e798-8304-4ecd-9ef7-f34ef49f6e23)

Magnets may seem simple, but their strength, durability, and performance depend on a mix of science, materials, and craftsmanship. 

At Sticker Mule, we go the extra mile to ensure our flexible and acrylic magnets are among the best available—and we make them all out of our factories in the USA and Italy. 

With industry-leading magnetic pull and superior durability, our magnets are designed to hold up against everyday use—whether on a fridge, car, or any other magnetic surface.

If you’re looking for high-quality, reliable magnets, try them for yourself. 

<ButtonCta text="Try 10 flexible (fridge) magnets for $9" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/magnet-samples" />

<ButtonCta text="Try 10 acrylic magnets for $21" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/acrylic-magnets" />



Learn how magnets work—from materials like ferrite to neodymium, to strength factors. Explore expert insights from Sticker Mule on magnet durability & power.

12 cute stickers on Sticker Mule stores

Every day we see hundreds of talented creators come to Sticker Mule to create some of the world's most beautiful sticker art. We introduced Stores so that these talented artists could [sell their stickers online](https://www.stickermule.com/stores/learn-more) directly to the public.

If you're looking for stickers, [Sticker Mule Stores](https://www.stickermule.com/stores) is a top destination for discovering original, high-quality designs straight from artists. You'll find unique stickers you won't see anywhere else, perfect for personalizing your laptop, phone, car, water bottle, e-reader, suitcase, or sports gear.

"Cute stickers" is one of the most popular searches we see, so we took the time to round up some of the cutest designs available on Sticker Mule Stores.

##Cute stickers at Sticker Mule Stores

1. [Ms. Lulu](https://www.stickermule.com/30f8f58dd2af2a0) is selling [this adorable kitty](https://www.stickermule.com/30f8f58dd2af2a0/item/6038264?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) popping out of a coffee cup. It's the perfect gift for the person in your life who loves cats and coffee. 

![cute cat sticker by Ms. Lulu](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b9e2d99a-5cb8-4c0c-ab19-30ef4f8cdb88)
2. [Dorky Doodles](https://www.stickermule.com/dorkydoodles) has a ton of adorable stickers on their store to fit every mood, whether you're looking for [moldy zombie potatoes](https://www.stickermule.com/dorkydoodles/item/10437988?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE), a [derpy octopus](https://www.stickermule.com/dorkydoodles/item/11777380?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE), or [a bee in an aviator outfit](https://www.stickermule.com/dorkydoodles/item/11777380?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE). Our favorite is [this huggable narwhal](https://www.stickermule.com/dorkydoodles/item/7769656?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) in holographic form. It's nearly impossible to take a look at this little fellow and not have your day be instantly better.

![cute narwhal sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/a3fd2566-3bfb-464c-850a-3b0250f21e53)
3. A store that goes by the simple name "K" has a dazzling collection of distinctly Australian animals and birds, from the [Kookaburra](https://www.stickermule.com/99a4ca10c4eb483/item/17261147?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) to the [blue tongue lizard](https://www.stickermule.com/99a4ca10c4eb483/item/17261150?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE). We had a hard time picking out the cutest, but we decided it has to be [this smiling quokka](https://www.stickermule.com/99a4ca10c4eb483/item/17261146?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE). 

![cute quokka sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/d4abb8e8-f107-497d-831e-a0336d84141c)
4. You'll find lots of scowling, roaring dinosaur stickers on Sticker Mule Stores, but [Thats Sew Lacey](https://www.stickermule.com/e57a3e1c43e65b8) has managed to create one that you want to pick up and hug. You can find crocheted versions of this [cute little dinosaur](https://www.stickermule.com/e57a3e1c43e65b8/item/12528203?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) on their Web site, linked from their Store Mule Store page.

![cute dinosaur sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5a2aa03f-72e8-4bce-959d-7ceb427ed520)
5. If you're familiar with Tom Nook from Animal Crossing or Tanooki Mario from Super Mario Bros 3, you're familiar with the tanooki, a species of raccoon dog only found in Japan. There are lots of cute animal stickers on Sticker Mule Stores, but [this is one of the cutest](https://www.stickermule.com/panichousegfx/item/6046833?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE), from [Alexander Black's Sticker Mule Store](https://www.stickermule.com/panichousegfx).  

![cute tanooki sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/e8e271e0-e178-4831-aa4c-e550551bde3f)
6. You may or may not be familiar with the term "Kawaii", but you've no doubt seen this art everywhere, including on Sticker Mule Stores. Kawaii is a Japanese term meaning "cute" or "adorable", and it's generally associated with a charming, childlike, and playful aesthetic in fashion, art, and culture. 

You'll find lots of gifted Kawaii artists on Sticker Mule Stores, from the delicious-looking [surfing mochi](https://www.stickermule.com/b1b96c6c06a59eb/item/15783254) from [Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice](https://www.stickermule.com/b1b96c6c06a59eb) to the adorable [acrylic charms](https://www.stickermule.com/pureblisswaxco/item/16117883) from [Pure Bliss Wax Co](https://www.stickermule.com/pureblisswaxco).

While it's hard to choose a favorite (we should—and will—have another blog post focusing just on our favorite Kawaii stickers), we'd definitely put [Juba Creative Design](https://www.stickermule.com/04b572f7bbeee4d) among the very top of the list. They've got monkeys, axolotls, and betta fish, but [our favorite is this lion](https://www.stickermule.com/04b572f7bbeee4d/item/14743660?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE).

![cute lion sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/09e1cc21-c4b0-489d-b152-23aa13f51140)
7. [Carpenter Creek Ranch](https://www.stickermule.com/carpentercreekranch) is a great example of a small business using stickers to celebrate and promote their business, which is a goat dairy and cattle ranch located in Northwest Oregon, less than an hour's drive from Portland. 

While they do sell stickers on their site, what jumped out at me was that they sell "cuddle" sessions with baby goats and cows. This beautiful sticker features [Merida](https://www.stickermule.com/carpentercreekranch/item/13297118?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE), one of their mini cows. 

![cute cow sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8ba7dc53-0d84-4522-a399-68fc2b401a9e)
8. It was hard to choose a favorite cute Christmas sticker, but this [Kawaii-style tree](https://www.stickermule.com/689aa82f2bcb06d/item/13718355) from [Elise Cellucci](https://www.stickermule.com/689aa82f2bcb06d) caught our eye. A close runner up was [this adorable sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/reaganthecorgi/item/16010774) from [Reagan the Corgi](https://www.stickermule.com/reaganthecorgi). As we get closer to Christmas, we'll write a new post like this one to help you choose the best Christmas stickers.

![cute christmas sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/371adc0b-48fe-4dd4-ba42-24078df3d521)
9. This wouldn't be a cute stickers rundown without a dog sticker. This is another category with an embarrassment of riches, from [Abby Leisy's](https://www.stickermule.com/244375d784f38f2) joyous [Dog](https://www.stickermule.com/244375d784f38f2/item/11629402?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) to [JoAnna Sorosiak's](https://www.stickermule.com/071b017806844b8) [Dog Mom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/071b017806844b8/item/14113492?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE). 

But the most prolific creator in this category is [Binky and Bell](https://www.stickermule.com/binkyandbell), a wonderful small business out of North Carolina that fundraises using art to help homeless pets. This [Peace, Love, Adopt a Dog](https://www.stickermule.com/binkyandbell/item/4393569?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) sticker is one of many stickers, pins, and keychains they sell on their Store and Web site to promote pet adoption.

![cute dog sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/9a2e73c7-9499-43ab-959d-614c06761397)
10. The [Friendshine Store](https://www.stickermule.com/friendshinestore) has a bunch of bright, inspirational stickers, including [this happy sunflower](https://www.stickermule.com/friendshinestore/item/16121631?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) ready to brighten up the day of anyone passing by. 

![cute sunflower sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8d4e59f7-3e09-4854-9bf4-a3cbb645fddb)
11.You don't often think of ghosts as being "cute", but [Mysfit Stix](https://www.stickermule.com/mysfitstix) has managed to make that happen. Their "Ghostie" stickers, including [this one of a heavily caffeinated ghost](https://www.stickermule.com/mysfitstix/item/16816313?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE) during the holidays, are both hilarious and adorable. Visit their store for more Ghostie stickers, as well as bookish quotes and Taylor Swift-inspired stuff.

![cute ghost sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f804ea42-36f0-4e94-a2ff-3e271bd57a62)
12. The good folks at [Heytaco](https://www.stickermule.com/heytaco) don't just have one of the best employee recognition platforms in the world, they also have a series of awesome stickers featuring [their adorable logo and mascot](https://www.stickermule.com/heytaco/item/16819744?origin=PUBLIC_PROFILE). If you work at a big brand or startup, take note: this is how branding is done right. 

![cute taco sticker](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4c1ed493-af9b-4127-9a4c-39a681494cc1)

##Conclusion

With so many talented sticker artists it was practically impossible for us to limit this list to 12 choices. 

And of course, "cute" is in the eye of the beholder. Search for [cute stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute) on Sticker Mule and you'll find thousands more, with many added each day. You can also search for individual subjects. Try it; you never know what treasures you'll dig up. Here are some popular searches for you to started:

1. [cute animal stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+animal)
1. [cute cat stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+cat)
1. [cute bunny stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+bunny)
1. [cute bear stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+bear)
1. [cute cow stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+cow)
1. [cute christmas stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+christmas)
1. [cute frog stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+frog)
1. [cute halloween stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+halloween)
1. [cute dog stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/search?q=cute+dog)

From time to time we'll revisit this list with more examples of the cutest stickers you can find on Sticker Mule Stores and anywhere else. Remember that unlike other sticker and e-commerce marketplaces, when you buy on Sticker Mule Stores you're directly supporting the artist, and you'll be getting the best quality vinyl stickers available anywhere. 

Have you created your own sticker designs that you feel belong on this list? Post to X with the hashtag #stickermule and #cute for a chance to be included the next time we update this list. 

Find the cutest original stickers around at Sticker Mule Stores, crafted by some of the world's most talented sticker artists.

Cute stickers on Sticker Mule stores

How to print a UPS shipping label. And save big.

Learn how to print UPS shipping labels with Sticker Mule Ship. Our step-by-step guide walks you through packaging, measuring and printing discounted UPS labels.

How to print a UPS shipping label

Shipping for small businesses: a comprehensive guide

Shipping is a cornerstone of running a successful small business. Whether you’re an e-commerce entrepreneur, a creative selling handmade goods, or a service provider shipping materials to clients, effective shipping practices can save you money, streamline operations, and improve customer satisfaction.

Sticker Mule is a small business, just like you. Many of our products and services were born out of a simple thought: "Someone should create something like this." Then we realized—that someone could be us.

If you've ever placed a custom order with us, you've likely noticed that it arrived in a Sticker Mule [bubble mailer](https://www.stickermule.com/products/bubble-mailers), [poly mailer](https://www.stickermule.com/products/poly-mailers), or a box sealed with our [branded packaging tape](https://www.stickermule.com/products/packaging-tape). And if your package came via UPS, it’s because someone at Sticker Mule used our very own [Ship](https://www.stickermule.com/ship) tool—a solution that provides a smoother (and more affordable) experience than even UPS itself.

We pride ourselves on creating the best products for internal use and sharing them with you. Over the years, we've shipped thousands of packages and gained valuable expertise in the process. Now, we’d love to pass some of that knowledge on to you.

This guide is your primer on small business shipping, offering everything from choosing carriers to optimizing packaging, with a few helpful suggestions for tools and services like Sticker Mule's shipping products that can simplify the process.

##1. Understanding your shipping needs

![understanding your shipping needs](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/43b340a2-3da2-4f0a-bffd-11f8d92c0214)

Before diving into carriers or packaging, assess your specific shipping needs. This foundation will help you create an efficient and cost-effective process:

###Product Size and Weight

Small and lightweight items like stickers or jewelry are generally less expensive to ship, but you’ll need to ensure they’re packaged securely to prevent bending or damage. Conversely, larger or heavier products, such as decor or tools, might require reinforced packaging and careful carrier selection.

###Shipping Frequency

If you’re shipping daily or fulfilling high volumes, consider automating your processes with shipping software or discounts from carriers. For occasional or seasonal shippers, focus on flexible solutions that don’t require long-term commitments.

###Shipping Locations

Domestic shipping tends to be simpler and less expensive, but if you plan to ship internationally, you’ll need to account for customs paperwork, duties, and potential delivery delays.

Once you understand these basics, you can start tailoring a strategy that works for your unique business.

##2. Choosing the right shipping carriers

Shipping providers vary widely in their offerings, making it essential to pick the ones that best align with your needs. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:

###USPS (United States Postal Service)

Perfect for small, lightweight packages, USPS offers services like First-Class Mail for items under 1 lb and Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes for shipments that need faster delivery. Its flat-rate options are ideal if your products fit standard-sized boxes.

###UPS (United Parcel Service)

Known for reliability and robust tracking, UPS works well for larger or heavier packages. Their UPS Ground service is a cost-effective solution for domestic shipping, especially for medium-sized businesses.

###FedEx

Offering a wide range of services, FedEx excels in expedited shipping and time-sensitive deliveries. If your business promises next-day or two-day delivery, FedEx is a solid choice.

###DHL

Specializing in international shipping, DHL provides comprehensive global coverage. If your customer base spans multiple countries, DHL’s expertise in handling customs can save you time and money.

If you're shipping within the United States, we encourage you to compare [Sticker Mule Ship's UPS delivery rates](https://www.stickermule.com/ship) with those of major carriers and other UPS resellers. You'll discover some of the lowest prices available—without hidden fees, long-term commitments, or pressure to purchase additional business shipping services.

##3. Packaging basics: protection meets branding

![sticker mule packaging solutions](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/4dc34066-b784-41e0-a367-1ac0bae45c1b)

Packaging protects your products during transit while also acting as a branding opportunity. Here’s how to balance functionality with aesthetics:

###Materials: 

Lightweight items like stickers are best shipped in rigid envelopes or padded poly mailers to protect against bending. Fragile or larger items may require corrugated boxes with additional cushioning like bubble wrap or packing paper. For non-fragile goods, consider Sticker Mule's [custom poly mailers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/poly-mailers), which combine lightweight durability with eye-catching branding.

###Branding: 

Custom-branded packaging creates a memorable unboxing experience. Add your logo or designs to your mailers, or seal your boxes with branded tape. Sticker Mule offers [custom shipping tape](https://www.stickermule.com/products/packaging-tape), which seals your box securely, adds a professional touch, and promotes your brand every step of the way.

###Protection: 

Use cardboard inserts, air pillows, or foam sheets to keep products from shifting during transit. For paper-based items like stickers, a rigid backing board inside the envelope is a simple way to prevent damage.

Investing in quality materials upfront can reduce replacement costs due to damage and leave a lasting impression on your customers.

##4. Calculating shipping costs

Shipping costs can vary based on multiple factors. Accurately estimating these helps you avoid surprises and keeps your pricing competitive:

###Weight and dimensions

Carriers base their rates on the weight and size of your package. Overestimate these measurements, and you’ll overpay; underestimate them, and your package might be delayed or returned. Invest in a shipping scale and measure each package to avoid errors. Chatbots like ChatGPT or Grok can be a quick way to help you with conversions between pounds, kilograms, and ounces. 

###Shipping zones

Carriers divide locations into zones based on their distance from your origin. The farther the package travels, the higher the shipping cost. Zone charts from carriers can help you plan accordingly.

###Flat-rate options

If you frequently ship items of similar size and weight, flat-rate shipping boxes or envelopes can simplify your pricing. For instance, USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate works well for small businesses shipping items under 70 lbs. But be cautious: it’s easy to rely on flat-rate packages, only to find out later that you’ve been paying more than you would have if you’d used a calculated weight-based rate.

[Sticker Mule Ship](https://www.stickermule.com/ship) allows small businesses to print discounted UPS Ground labels, offering significant savings for domestic shipping starting at just $4.95.

![Sticker Mule Ship screen](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/89c192b7-4f27-4302-b96e-45b624f7329c)

##5. Offering shipping options to customers

Your customers appreciate flexibility when it comes to shipping. Offering a mix of options can improve satisfaction and increase conversions:

###Standard shipping

This is typically the most affordable and widely used option. USPS First-Class Mail is perfect for lightweight items like stickers, while UPS Ground works well for heavier packages.

###Expedited shipping 

For customers in a hurry, offering two-day or next-day delivery through FedEx or UPS can make your business more competitive.

###Free shipping

Many customers expect free shipping, especially for orders over a certain amount. Build the cost of shipping into your product pricing or set thresholds (e.g., free shipping for orders over $50) to maintain profitability.

Transparency is key—be clear about delivery timelines and costs at checkout to build trust with your customers. 

##6. International shipping tips

![international shipping forms](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/21e3246c-92c7-4cac-b95a-4a6c66b65490)

Expanding your customer base globally can be a game-changer, but it requires careful planning:

###Customs Documentation

Include accurate descriptions and values for your products on customs forms to avoid delays or additional charges.

###Duties and Taxes

Be upfront with customers about potential import fees. Many businesses offer the option to prepay these to simplify the process for buyers.

###Packaging Durability

International shipments take longer and are handled more frequently, so ensure your packaging is secure. Sticker Mule’s custom mailers are weather-resistant and durable, making them ideal for long-haul deliveries.

Choose carriers with strong international networks, like DHL or USPS International, to ensure smooth delivery.

##7. Automating and tracking shipments

![UPS tracking](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ffea099c-1f37-40a8-a8bc-4a93dc9ceea0)

Simplify your shipping operations with tools that save time and improve accuracy:

###Shipping Software

Platforms like Pirate Ship, ShipStation, and [Sticker Mule Ship](https://www.stickermule.com/ship) can help facilitate label printing, manage shipments, and track packages in one place.

###Batch processing

For high-volume shippers, printing labels in bulk is a massive time-saver. Most shipping software includes this feature.

###Real-time tracking

Always provide customers with tracking numbers so they can monitor their packages and avoid unnecessary inquiries.

Automation frees up your time to focus on growing your business.

##8. Creating a great customer experience

Shipping is an extension of your brand. A seamless process can turn first-time buyers into loyal customers. Here’s how:

###Accurate shipping estimates

Clearly communicate delivery times during checkout.

###Proactive updates

Use tracking tools to keep customers informed about their orders.

###Memorable unboxing 

Use branded elements like custom tape or stickers to make the experience feel special.
Sticker Mule’s [custom packaging solutions](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-packaging), including [mailers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/poly-mailers), [shipping tape](https://www.stickermule.com/products/packaging-tape), and [labels](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-labels), can enhance your presentation without complicating your workflow.

##Conclusion

Shipping is more than just moving products from point A to point B—it’s a vital part of your business that can impact customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and profitability. By choosing the right carriers, optimizing packaging, and leveraging tools like Sticker Mule Ship and custom packaging, you can streamline your process while standing out in a competitive market.

Take the time to evaluate your shipping practices today, and you’ll set your business up for smoother operations and happier customers tomorrow.


Sticker Mule doesn't just make great branded packing tape and mailers, we're also shipping experts ourselves. Here's how to do small business shipping right.

Blog

How to make a custom dog shirt

How to make your own National Park magnets

A parent’s guide to non-toxic, kid-safe clothing

Fridge magnets: A definitive history

How to apply stickers to a laptop like a pro

How to turn your photos into Studio Ghibli art with ChatGPT

How do magnets work? Strength, materials & more

12 cute stickers on Sticker Mule stores

How to print a UPS shipping label. And save big.

Shipping for small businesses: a comprehensive guide

Blog

How to make a custom dog shirt

How to make your own National Park magnets

A parent’s guide to non-toxic, kid-safe clothing

Fridge magnets: A definitive history

How to apply stickers to a laptop​ like a pro

How to turn your photos into Studio Ghibli art with ChatGPT

How do magnets work? Strength, materials & more

12 cute stickers on Sticker Mule stores

How to print a UPS shipping label. And save big.

Shipping for small businesses: a comprehensive guide

How to apply stickers to a laptop like a pro