Learn
Learn how to Design and Print a Sticker. Your sticker/s can be to give away or for a specific purpose like a laptop, table, or cabinet.
- You can start with this template in Canva
- Or you can create using Illustrator, Photoshop, or some other graphic editing software.
- You could even draw or paint it and then scan and size it in the computer.
- Practice using the automated cutting feature, include a cut line in your design. We’ll add that in Illustrator- it has to be a specific Roland Cut color swatch.
- Save your file as PNG or JPG at 300 dpi for the Roland Printer.
- Save as CMYK if prompted. RGB is ok too, but CMYK is better for print.
- Be sure your background color bleeds beyond the cut line. (What is a Bleed?)
- Use text and imagery of any kind (photo, graphic, texture, icons – more than just a gradient)
Think About
- What is your idea for your sticker?
- How does it relate to your semester-long core concept?
- Who is the sticker for? Why make it?
- to make people laugh?
- to identify as part of a tribe (fan sticker)?
- a comment on the state of things? Social justice, environmental justice, etc?
- a branding icon or marketing token?
- context change based on where it’s placed (ex: for a trash can that reads, “all my best ideas”
- Where do you want people to use the sticker?
- How does the size change the concept? What is the best size and shape for your sticker?
Activity
Discuss it with a partner and draft initial designs. Take a picture of your favorite design to submit.
Draft the sticker in Canva, Illustrator, Photoshop or another image editing software. View the sticker in grayscale to ensure maximum readability and contrast.
Save the sticker with these attributes for the MACHINE:
- at the actual print-size
- as a .jpg or .png??
- 300 dpi/ppi
- Flatten the image and outline the text
- Set the cut line using the special Roland color swatch.
- Print one row of stickers.
- Weed the background FIRST, then cut the individual stickers.