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When I first started my DIY stationery journey, I knew I wanted to create stickers, but I wasn’t sure where to begin. Outsourcing was one of the first options I considered, but print-on-demand services often come with low profit margins and inconsistent quality. Ordering in bulk was another possibility, but it felt risky for someone just starting out.
In the end, I decided that printing in-house was the best choice for me. It gave me control over every step of the process and allowed me to confidently say that every sticker I sell is 100% designed, printed, and shipped by me.
If you’re in the same position—excited to dive into creating but unsure of the best approach—having the right tools can make all the difference. Whether you’re starting with stickers, greeting cards, or other stationery, these five must-haves will set you up for success and help you bring your creative vision to life.
1. Label Printer: The Ultimate Time Saver
Printing shipping labels by hand was fun at first, but a label printer changed everything. It’s fast, mess-free (no ink!), and gives your packages a professional touch. If you’re shipping regularly, this tool is a must-have for saving time and stepping up your game.
2. Cricut: The Sticker Maker’s Best Friend
The Cricut is a game-changer for creating custom stickers and stationery. It cuts with precision, handles intricate designs, and works seamlessly with different materials. If you’re serious about DIY stationery, this tool is worth every penny.
3. Canva: Your Design Playground
When I first started, I didn’t have the budget for professional design software like Illustrator, so Canva was a lifesaver. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and packed with templates that make creating stickers and stationery layouts a breeze. While I now use Illustrator for my designs, Canva remains an excellent option for anyone starting out or looking for quick, polished results.
4. A Quality Printer: Your Creative Workhorse
Investing in a high-quality printer was a game-changer for my DIY stationery journey. It ensures your designs look vibrant, professional, and true to color. When I first started, I used an affordable inkjet printer, and it worked well enough to get me going. As I grew, upgrading to a professional-grade printer helped me streamline production and elevate my product quality. Whatever your budget, having a reliable printer is key to bringing your creations to life!
5. Greeting Cards: The Finishing Touch for Packing
It may surprise you, but greeting cards are also making my list. You want your shipping and packaging to be elite. With stickers, you don't need something big to ship, but it needs to be structured enough to keep the sticker safe in the mail. Greeting cards not only achieve that, but are super cost-effective. They are also cute and add a personal touch. I buy blank greeting cards with cute designs. I handwrite a thank you note, stick my sticker inside along with the Etsy invoice and a business card!
Starting your own business as a creative entrepreneur can be exciting and overwhelming. Success comes from taking it step by step, learning, and embracing the journey. Invest in the right tools like a label printer, Cricut, or quality printer to build a solid foundation. With patience and perseverance, your dream will take shape. If you're a 30-something female entrepreneur, trust yourself to experiment, learn, and grow. Your business is your unique creation—keep pushing forward. For inspiration or custom stickers, visit my Etsy store to explore my latest designs!
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