5 Best Sticker Maker Machines | 2022 Impressive Buyer’s Guide for Creative Persons and Kids
This guide deals with TOP-5 best sticker makers, including not only machines but also kits containing various useful as well as units resembling dispensing pens. Some items allow you not only print but design and create your own designs while others come with the pre-set ones. Before buying a product, pay attention to the length of a roll of permanent adhesive, which means how many stickers you will be able to produce.
Do you want to add a personal touch to your décor or flair to your projects? Or make professional looking greeting cards, labels or gifts? How about engaging kids in fun, creative projects? You can achieve all of these with these devices.
I recently looked into having stickers of my dog’s head made for a gift and was surprised by how high the cost was per item (almost $0.60) and production time was 6 to 10 days. With a little additional research, I discovered I could buy a machine that included an adhesive cartridge for less than $0.10 per item.
There is a wide selection of these products available. To make the best selection, you need to think through what you are trying to accomplish. For example, do you want this for crafting with kids? Do you have size requirements? Does the machine need to be portable?
What You Will Learn From This Guide:
- How do sticker maker machines work?
- What are the types of sticker maker machines and their differences?
- TOP-5 sticker makers
- FAQ
How Do Sticker Maker Machines Work?
Sticker maker machines add an adhesive to the back of the paper, vinyl, fabric, ribbon or similar mediums to enable it to stick to another surface. The machines are promoted as adding adhesive “edge-to-edge” on the item and replace the need for liquid glue, glue dots or glue sticks. Many machines have the option to use permanent adhesive or repositionable adhesive that lets you adjust the sticker before the adhesive sets. The adhesives are usually not waterproof.
What Are The Types of Sticker Maker Machines And Their Differences?
You have an array of options when selecting a machine — from cutting machines to machines that add an adhesive to pre-cut and designed images to tape dispensers. Factors for consideration in selecting a machine: size of images you want to make; how portable you want the machine to be; the cost of machine and supplies; and who will be using it.
The units that only add adhesives are manually operated and have easy-to-replace cartridges that snap into place. These machines are basic and not complicated to learn.
Cutting machines are crafting tools that are capable of a range functions. Creating stickers are made by using a special paper or vinyl with adhesive on one side and cutting the images into the sheets. These machines are sophisticated, cost several hundred dollars and use software and Bluetooth to program or upload images.
Another option is kits that include all the tools to design and then make stickers.
A key component of each machine, no matter what the basic function, is refillable supplies such as glue cartridges or specialized papers or even paints.
TOP-5 Sticker Makers
Below, you will find products within the price range from $7 to $200. There is a feature-packed machine capable to print even personalized home decors and simpler and cheaper options where you design and produce stickers yourself. An interesting solution is a unit resembling a dispensing pen and allowing you to create items of pre-set designs. Or you can opt for a balanced solution — an unsophisticated machine that works by adding the adhesive backing and a film.
5-Inch Create-a-Sticker Machine | Xyron XRN500EN
The product tops the list in our Best of Guide. Xyron produces several inexpensive, easy-to-use machines. The XRN 500 makes stickers or labels up to 5 inches wide and 1/16 inch thick. It can make them out of paper, photographs, ribbon, vinyl, and numerous other materials.
This model is portable, light-weight (just over 1 pound) and easy to use. The machine does not require electricity, heat or batteries. You feed the material in one side and hand crank it through the machine. A perforation strip lets you pull off the appropriate length on the other side. You should burnish the edges before removing the paper backing the adhesive.
The product comes with an 18-foot long roll of permanent adhesive in a cartridge. The cartridges are easy to install and are available in permanent or repositionable adhesives. The adhesives are acid-free but not waterproof.
When making stickers, you will need to be mindful of how wide they will be. If it is smaller than 4 or 5 inches, you will waste adhesive. You can feed multiple pieces next to each other through XRN 500 to get to the 5-inch width and maximize use of the adhesives.
Some purchasers have reported problems with the adhesive getting on the from side of the sticker and a few people noted an issue with paper jamming. While these issues have been reported, it appears to be on a very limited basis. Burnishing the edges may help with some of the adhesion problems.
XRN 500 and its refill cartridges can be found both online and in craft stores.
Xyron XRN500EN: Check the current price
Affordable Decal Maker | Xyron XRN150
This model is a much smaller and less expensive machine than the XRN 500. Priced around $10, the machine’s width is limited to 1.5 inches. Designed in an X shape in bright colors, the tool itself has visual appeal and weighs only 5 ounces.
Insert your material and pull it through the other end. It will be sandwiched between the adhesive backing and a clear film. Rub the sticker to ensure a strong adhesive bond and to limit excess adhesive on the item before removing the film.
XRN 150 comes with a 20-foot roll of permanent adhesive. The adhesive can be applied to paper, photographs, ribbon, etc. as long as the thickness is 1/16 inch or less. As with other Xyron machines, the cartridges are easy to replace and are available in both permanent and repositionable adhesives.
The XRN 150 and its refill cartridges are widely available online and in craft stores.
Xyron XRN150: Check the current price
Multicolor Cute Sticker Maker | Eff-cientt
The product functions like a tape. Sold in a set of four, each unit has its own images and operates like a white out dispensing pen. The four unique designs are hearts, alligators, coffee-related images and small animals and bugs. The tape surrounding the images is clear.
These machines are inexpensive and easy to master. They can be purchased on Amazon, Etsy and Ebay, among other online retailers, for less than $10. Unlike the other items, these tools offer pre-set designs in one size, approximately 1.5 cm. The cartridge is approximately 4 meters long.
The tape can be used to embellish journals, planners, scrapbook pages or other projects. Such machines are not suitable for young children as they do require some dexterity and controlled pressure.
One drawback is that I was unable to locate any sticker tape refills for the pens.
Eff-cientt: Check the current price
Sticker Design Studio | Crayola
This is a kit that focuses not only on adding an adhesive but also on making your own designs. The manufacturer’s age recommendation is 8 years old to 12 years old.
The kit includes tempura paint and related tools, stencils, foam stickers, sticker sheets and an idea booklet. You blend the paint to create random color designs, then transfer them to stickers that have repositionable adhesive.
The kit is available at online retailers like Amazon. Michaels and other craft retailers as well as online or in-store at Walmart and Target. It costs around $20. All the kit components are replaceable.
Crayola: Check the current price
DIY Cutting Machine for Personalized Home Decor | Cricut
Cricut is a do-it-yourself cutting machine. It makes stickers when you use a medium with the adhesive already applied. The Explore Air 2 enables more complicated designs and die cuts. You can upload an image or use Cricut’s online Design Space to create an image or access the image and project library. The Explore Air 2 works faster than other models and is well suited for producing a larger volume.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is expensive with a cost between $200 and $300 and not very portable with a weight of 17 pounds. It requires electricity to operate. The machine has Wireless Bluetooth to mobile apps and access Design Space and has a USB port.
If selecting the Explore Air 2, you need to be comfortable with software applications and will need to subscribe to Cricut’s Design Space for $10 per month to maintain access to the image and project library. You can bypass the online subscription by only uploading your images from Photoshop or Illustrator.
YouTube has many videos on how the Cricut works and the range of projects you can undertake with the Explore Air 2 machine. If your sole interest is creating stickers, this may not be the best machine to select.
Cricut Explore Air 2 can be purchased in most craft stores, such as Michael’s, Jo Ann Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, or it is available from online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. It comes in many different colors.
Cricut: Check the current price
Best-Selling Sticker Maker Machines | Comparison Table
Xyron 100012 Teresa Collins Sticker Maker
- Xyron adhesives enhance with the teresa collins flair
- 1-1/2-Inch sticker maker comes loaded with 20-Feet of permanent adhesive
- Applies an edge to edge layer of non-toxic, acid-free adhesive to items up to 1-1/2-Inch wide
- Easy to use and refill using XRN150 refills, AT155-20 or AT156-20
- Quickly and cleanly turns small items into stickers
Xyron XRN250-CFT Create-a-Sticker 2.5-Inch Sticker Maker with Permanent-Adhesive Cartridge
- Lightweight, portable machine for applying edge-to-edge adhesive to items up to 2.5-Inches wide
- New in 2010 - The XRN250 can now accept chip board and other items up to 1/16 Inch thick
- No batteries, electricity, or heat required
- Includes 20-foot permanent adhesive cartridge; Refill cartridges available with either acid-free permanent or acid-free repositionable adhesive
- Measures 6 x 7 x 8-Inch; 1-year limited warranty
Dymo LabelManager 160 Hand Held Label Maker (Silver/Black) (1790418)
- Type text easily on the computer-style keyboard with country-specific layout; four language settings (English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese)
- Format fast with one-touch Smart Keys for text size, bold, italic, underline/box and vertical text
- See what your label will look like before you print – preview in the large LCD display
- Choose from 6 font sizes, 8 text styles, 4 boxes plus underline
- Add professional impact and clarity to your labels with 228 symbols and clip art images; use quick-access key to enter punctuation
- Powered by 6 AAA alkaline batteries (not included) or optional AC adapter; 36% fewer steps in order to create a label relative to the competition
- Logical button flow makes labeling faster and easier, from start to print
- 195 symbols and clipart
- Auto-off power saver
- AC adapter compatible (sold separately)
- Uses DYMO D1 labels in 1/4-Inch , 3/8-Inch, 1/2-Inch widths
Cricut Explore Air 2
- The Cricut Explore Air 2 is your personal DIY cutting machine. Make custom vinyl stickers, personalized home decor, unique greeting cards, custom designed apparel, and more!
- Upload your own images for free or choose from Cricut's vast library of pre-made designs and projects. Double tool holder for cutting and writing or cutting and scoring in one step. Compatible with Cricut cartridges
- Design anywhere. Free access to Cricut's simple design software, Design Space. Create and design from your computer, tablet or mobile phone using the Cricut Design App for iOS and Android devices.
- Make the perfect cut every time. The Smart Set Dial ensures that your machine cuts at the correct depth and pressure for any type of material.
- Cricut offers a wide range of materials specifically designed and tested for use with the Cricut machine including basic and specialty Vinyl colors
- Material Type: Plastic
Xyron 624740 Creative Station Lite (5 Inch with 3 Inch Option)
- All in one tool for adding adhesive, magnet or Lamination to your creative projects
- Unit Comes pre-loaded with a 5-inch permanent adhesive cartridge
- Change the cartridge to change the function - additional cartridges sold separately
- For smaller projects, switch to a 3-inch cartridge to minimize waste
- Applies an even edge to edge layer of adhesive and is instantly dry
Crayola Sticker Design Studio, Sticker Maker, Gift for Boys and Girls, Kids, Ages 8, 9, 10 and Up, Holiday Toys,...
- Mat, 3 paint bottles, 1 roller, 1 design tool, 2 stencils, 4 blank repositionable sticker sheets, 6 repositionable pre-cut sticker sheets, 3 foam reusable sticker sheets, design guide
- Create custom, decorative stickers
- Personalize tech gear, school supplies and more!
- Design guide provides inspiration for all sorts of designs.
- Works with Crayola Premier Tempera Paint.
Crayola Silly Scents Sticker Maker, Holiday Toys, Holiday Kids, Age 3, 4, 5, 6, Gifting
- The Silly Scents Sticker Set Includes: Sticker Maker, 10 Line Art Sheets, 20 Adhesive Sheets, 6 Silly Scents Mini Markers, 3 Scent Sticks, and Instructions
- Turn Virtually Anything Into A Custom Sticker!
- Create Reusable Stickers for Decorating Pencil Cases, Lockers, and More
- Perfect Birthday Party Activity and Craft Kit for Kids
- Holiday Holiday Gift for Boys and Girls, Ages 6 & Up
Brother ScanNCut SDX125E Electronic DIY Cutting Machine with Scanner, Make Custom Stickers, Vinyl Wall Art,...
- SCAN DRAWINGS AND MATERIALS: Brother ScanNCut is the only cutting machine series with a built-in scanner. Scan your drawing to convert it to a cut file, directly cut printed stickers, and precisely place designs without counting blocks
- STUNNING DIY PROJECTS: Craft with 682 built-in designs including 100 quilting patterns and 9 fonts. Add custom designs and additional free patterns with the USB port and wireless capability, and customize and combine your projects with the easy-to-use 5" touchscreen LCD display
- NO MATERIAL SELECTION REQUIRED The included ScanNCut DX auto blade and auto blade holder uses true automatic material sensor technology to detect the thickness of the material with no blade adjustment or material selection required. Always perform a trial/test cut to confirm a successful cut
- CUTS UP TO 3 millimeter (0.1 in) THICKNESS: The Brother Home Electronic Cutting Machine effortlessly cuts materials up to 3mm thick such as paper, vinyl, fabric, balsa wood, chipboard, foam and felt
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: The ScanNCut DX comes with a 12" x 12" standard tack mat, black pen, pen holder, touch pen, spatula, accessory pouch, pattern collection with 76 additional patterns, auto blade, auto blade holder, Getting Started guide and 1pc sample cardstock
Cricut Joy Machine - Compact and Portable DIY Machine For Quick Vinyl, HTV Iron On and Paper Projects | Makes...
- DIY Made Easy Whether you are new to DIY, or a seasoned crafter looking for a more convenient way to complete those quick projects. This smart little cutting, writing, and label making machine is perfect for you. Cricut Joy's small size makes it the perfect companion to the Cricut Air 2 or Cricut Maker machines
- Add that personal touch adding that extra touch to your projects is easier than ever. Cricut Joy can make continuous cuts up to 4 feet and repeated cuts up to 20 feet using Cricut smart materials. (Available in Vinyl, HTV Iron On, and Label Vinyl varieties.) No cutting mat needed. Just load and go. Or use other popular materials like Cricut Infusible Ink, Cardstock, or Insert Cards using Cricut Joy Cutting Mats and Cricut Joy Card Mats
- Get organized: See you later label maker. Cricut Joy can cut and write custom labels for a variety of home organization projects. Organizing the pantry, toiletries, storage bins and more with Cricut Smart Vinyl and Cricut Pens
- Design for free: Upload and create your own designs for free using Cricut design space. Design on your computer tablet or mobile device using our iOs or Android apps. Take your design space experience to the next level with Cricut access, a monthly subscription to our vast library of over 100k images, fonts, and make-it-now projects
- Included in the box: cricut joy cutting machine, premium fine point blade and housing, fine point pen, standard grip mat (4. 5" x 6. 5"), welcome card, power adapter, free trial membership to cricut access (for new subscribers, 50 ready-to-make projects online, and sample smart material for a practice cut.)
FAQ
The Cricut model which is the most feature-packed device in this review.
All these products are available online.
It depends on a particular model, but it is not more complicated than reloading any printer.
Vinyl decal cutter and rolls of vinyl
This is a great toy encouraging children’s creativity.
Conclusion
Creating your own stickers in-house is easy. Thinking through your needs will help you make the best selection of machines. The all-around best machine is the XRN 500 with its flexibility in sizes, ease of use, kid-friendliness, and portability. For highly creative designers and those seeking professional products, the Cricut Explore Air 2 may be the best investment. And if you are looking for a gift or to provide a creative activity for kids, the Eff-icient or Crayola products might be the best.