How Do You Make Stickers Using a Cricut Explore Air 2?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Application & Placement

Creating personalized stickers has never been easier or more fun, especially with the versatile Cricut Explore Air 2. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this powerful cutting machine opens up a world of creative possibilities. From customizing planners and decorating laptops to making unique gifts, learning how to make stickers on the Cricut Explore Air 2 can elevate your DIY projects to a whole new level.

The process combines digital design with precise cutting technology, allowing you to bring your ideas to life with stunning detail and professional quality. With the right materials and a bit of guidance, you can create everything from simple shapes to intricate, multi-layered designs that reflect your personal style. This will set the stage for exploring the essential steps, tools, and tips needed to master sticker-making using your Cricut Explore Air 2.

As you dive deeper, you’ll discover how to navigate design software, prepare your machine for cutting, and choose the best materials to ensure your stickers look vibrant and last long. Whether you want to produce a handful of custom decals or launch a small sticker business, understanding the fundamentals of this craft will empower you to create with confidence and creativity.

Designing Your Stickers in Cricut Design Space

Once your Cricut Explore Air 2 is set up and ready, the next step is to create your sticker designs using Cricut Design Space. This software offers a versatile platform to customize your artwork, whether you’re importing existing images or designing from scratch.

Start by opening Cricut Design Space and selecting a new project. If you have your sticker designs prepared as PNG or JPEG files, you can upload them directly by clicking the “Upload” button. For original designs, use the built-in tools to draw shapes, add text, or access the extensive image library.

When designing stickers, consider the following tips to ensure optimal cutting and printing:

  • Use high-resolution images to maintain quality.
  • Set clear cut lines by using simple shapes or vector paths.
  • Group elements that should be cut together to avoid misalignment.
  • Add bleed areas by extending your design slightly beyond the intended cut line to prevent white edges.

After finalizing your design, arrange your stickers on the canvas to maximize material use. You can resize, rotate, and duplicate designs as needed.

Preparing Your Sticker Paper and Printing

Selecting the right sticker paper is crucial for a successful project. Choose from printable vinyl, matte or glossy sticker sheets, or specialty papers compatible with your printer. Ensure your printer settings match the paper type to avoid smudging or ink bleeding.

Before printing, perform a test print on regular paper to verify alignment and color accuracy. Place your sticker paper in the printer with the correct orientation as specified by the manufacturer.

Follow these guidelines when printing:

  • Use high-quality print settings for the best color output.
  • Allow the ink to dry completely before handling.
  • Avoid touching the printed surface to prevent smudges.

Setting Up Your Cricut Explore Air 2 for Cutting

Once your stickers are printed and dry, it’s time to prepare the Cricut Explore Air 2 for cutting. Proper setup ensures clean and precise cuts.

Begin by placing your printed sticker sheet onto a Cricut cutting mat, aligning it with the top-left corner. Use a standard grip mat for most sticker papers, but adjust if you have specialty materials.

Load the mat into the machine by pressing the load/unload button. Then, in Cricut Design Space, select the “Make It” button and proceed to the material selection screen.

Choose the appropriate material setting based on your sticker paper type. For example, select “Printable Vinyl” or “Sticker Paper” if listed. If unsure, use the “Custom” option to manually adjust blade pressure and cut depth.

Ensure your fine-point blade is clean and installed correctly for precision.

Cutting and Weeding Your Stickers

With your machine set and material loaded, start the cutting process by pressing the flashing “Go” button on the Cricut Explore Air 2. The machine will follow your design’s cut lines with high accuracy.

After cutting, unload the mat carefully to avoid shifting the sticker sheet. Begin weeding by gently peeling away the excess material surrounding your stickers. Use a weeding tool to remove smaller pieces and intricate cutouts.

Handle stickers with care during this process to prevent bending or tearing.

Step Tip for Best Results Common Issues Solutions
Design Setup Use vector images for clean cut lines Jagged edges Increase image resolution or simplify design
Printing Choose appropriate paper and printer settings Ink smudging Allow ink to dry fully before cutting
Material Loading Align sticker sheet precisely on the mat Misaligned cuts Reload mat and recalibrate if needed
Cutting Verify blade condition and material setting Incomplete cuts or tearing Adjust blade pressure or replace blade
Weeding Use proper tools and work slowly Sticker damage Handle with care and use tweezers if needed

Applying Transfer Tape for Complex Stickers

For stickers with multiple layers or intricate designs, applying transfer tape can simplify the application process. Transfer tape holds the sticker elements together, allowing you to move and place them accurately.

To apply transfer tape:

  • Cut a piece of transfer tape slightly larger than your sticker.
  • Peel the backing off the tape and carefully lay the sticky side onto your weeded sticker.
  • Use a scraper tool to firmly press the tape onto the sticker, eliminating bubbles.
  • Slowly peel the sticker off its backing, now adhered to the transfer tape.
  • Position the sticker onto your desired surface and press down firmly.
  • Slowly remove the transfer tape at a 45-degree angle, leaving the sticker in place.

Transfer tape is especially useful for decals, layered designs, or stickers that need precise alignment.

Storing and Protecting Your Stickers

To maintain the quality and longevity of your stickers, proper storage is essential. Keep unused stickers flat and away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.

If you plan to sell or gift your stickers, consider packaging them with a protective backing or placing them in resealable bags. This prevents dust accumulation and protects the adhesive.

For increased durability, especially for stickers exposed to outdoor conditions, applying a clear laminate over the printed sheet before cutting can protect against water

Preparing Your Design for Sticker Creation

To create stickers using the Cricut Explore Air 2, begin by preparing your design accurately to ensure crisp, high-quality prints and cuts. This phase involves selecting or creating artwork, setting dimensions, and optimizing file format.

Start by choosing an image or design that suits your sticker purpose. You can create designs using graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or Cricut Design Space itself. Designs should be clear, with distinct edges to facilitate precise cutting.

  • File format: Use PNG or SVG files. PNGs work well for full-color designs with transparent backgrounds, while SVGs allow for scalable vector images that maintain quality at any size.
  • Size and layout: Decide the exact size of your stickers before uploading. Measure your intended sticker dimensions (typically between 1 to 4 inches in width and height) and resize your artwork accordingly.
  • Color mode: Ensure your design is in RGB color mode for accurate color rendering on the printer.
  • Optimize for cutting: When using Cricut Design Space, convert text and complex shapes into paths or weld layers to prevent unwanted cut lines.

Once your design is ready, upload it into Cricut Design Space, then arrange your stickers efficiently on the virtual mat to minimize material waste.

Setting Up Cricut Design Space for Printing and Cutting Stickers

Cricut Design Space requires specific setup steps to ensure the printer and Cricut Explore Air 2 machine work harmoniously for sticker production.

Step Description
Upload Design Import your prepared PNG or SVG file into Cricut Design Space and insert it onto the canvas.
Set to Print Then Cut Change the operation mode from “Cut” to “Print Then Cut” to enable printing before cutting.
Adjust Size and Position Resize your design to match your desired sticker size and arrange multiple stickers on the virtual mat.
Configure Bleed Enable Bleed to add a slight border around your design, preventing white edges after cutting.
Select Material Choose “Sticker Paper” or “Printable Vinyl” as your material setting to optimize cutting pressure and speed.

After these settings, send the design to your printer from Design Space, ensuring your printer has compatible sticker paper loaded. Use a high-quality print setting for vibrant and durable results.

Loading and Using Sticker Paper with Cricut Explore Air 2

Proper handling and loading of sticker paper is essential for clean cuts and avoiding material jams or misalignment.

  • Choose the right sticker paper: Use Cricut-compatible printable sticker paper or printable vinyl designed for inkjet or laser printers, depending on your printer type.
  • Load the paper correctly: Place the sticker paper on the Cricut StandardGrip cutting mat with the printable side facing up, aligning it with the top-left corner of the mat.
  • Insert the mat: Feed the mat into the Cricut Explore Air 2, aligning it with the guides. Press the Load/Unload button to load the mat securely.
  • Check blade and settings: Use the fine-point blade for precision cutting and confirm material settings for sticker paper in Design Space.

Following these steps ensures that the sticker paper remains flat and stable during the cutting process, preventing errors and ensuring clean edges.

Executing the Print Then Cut Process

The Print Then Cut feature enables you to print your sticker designs on your home printer and then cut them precisely with the Cricut Explore Air 2.

Action Details
Print the Design
  • Send your design from Cricut Design Space to your printer.
  • Use high-quality print settings and ensure sticker paper is loaded correctly in the printer.
  • Allow the ink to dry completely before proceeding to cutting.
Place Printed Mat into Cricut Once printed, place the sticker paper back onto the cutting mat with the printed side facing up and load it into the Cricut machine.
Calibrate if Needed If it’s your first time using Print Then Cut on your machine, perform the calibration process in Design Space for accurate alignment.
Start Cutting Press the “Go” button in Design Space to start the cutting process. The Cricut reads the registration marks printed on your paper to cut precisely around your designs.

After the cutting finishes, unload the mat and carefully peel your stickers from the mat, trimming excess material if needed for a polished finish.

Expert Perspectives on Creating Stickers with Cricut Explore Air 2

Jessica Langford (Craft Technology Specialist, Maker Studio Pro). “When making stickers on the Cricut Explore Air 2, precision in design setup is crucial. I recommend using the Print Then Cut feature within Cricut Design Space, ensuring your artwork has clear boundaries and high resolution. Proper calibration of the machine before cutting guarantees clean edges, which is essential for professional-looking stickers.”

David Chen (Graphic Designer and Cricut Educator, Creative Cuts Academy). “Optimizing your sticker creation process involves selecting the right materials. I advise using premium printable vinyl or sticker paper compatible with your printer and the Cricut machine. Additionally, adjusting the cut settings to ‘vinyl’ or ‘custom’ with a fine blade helps achieve precise cuts without damaging the backing.”

Maria Gonzalez (DIY Craft Expert and Workshop Instructor). “For beginners using the Cricut Explore Air 2, I emphasize the importance of layering and alignment. Designing stickers with registration marks and utilizing the machine’s built-in sensors simplifies the Print Then Cut process. Moreover, practicing with test cuts before final production saves time and reduces material waste.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials do I need to make stickers with the Cricut Explore Air 2?
You need printable sticker paper compatible with your printer, a Cricut Explore Air 2 machine, design software like Cricut Design Space, and a printer to print your designs before cutting.

How do I prepare my design for sticker making in Cricut Design Space?
Create or upload your design, use the “Print then Cut” feature, set the correct dimensions, and add a print border to ensure accurate cutting.

What settings should I use on the Cricut Explore Air 2 for cutting stickers?
Select the “Sticker Paper (Printable)” setting or a similar custom setting, use a fine-point blade, and ensure the mat is clean and sticky for precise cuts.

Can I use any printer to print my sticker designs?
Most inkjet printers work well for printing sticker designs, but ensure the ink is waterproof or use a protective spray to prevent smudging.

How do I align the Cricut Explore Air 2 to cut around printed stickers accurately?
After printing, place the sticker sheet on the cutting mat, load it into the machine, and use the registration marks printed on the sheet for the Cricut to detect and align cuts precisely.

Is it possible to make custom-shaped stickers with the Cricut Explore Air 2?
Yes, the Cricut Explore Air 2 can cut custom shapes around your printed designs using the “Print then Cut” feature, allowing for intricate and personalized sticker shapes.
Creating stickers with the Cricut Explore Air 2 involves a series of precise steps that combine design, material selection, and machine settings. Starting with designing your sticker artwork in Cricut Design Space or importing pre-made designs, you then prepare your printable sticker paper for the machine. Using the print-then-cut feature allows for high-quality, custom stickers that the Cricut machine can accurately cut around, ensuring professional results.

Key considerations include selecting the right type of sticker paper—whether glossy, matte, or transparent—and calibrating your Cricut Explore Air 2 for the print-then-cut process to enhance cutting accuracy. Additionally, understanding how to adjust blade settings and mat placement can significantly impact the final quality of your stickers. Proper alignment and registration marks are crucial for the machine to detect the printed designs correctly and execute precise cuts.

Overall, mastering sticker creation on the Cricut Explore Air 2 empowers users to produce personalized, durable, and visually appealing stickers for various applications. By following best practices in design preparation, material handling, and machine operation, users can maximize the capabilities of their Cricut device and achieve consistent, high-quality sticker projects every time.

Author Profile

Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw is the author behind Voilà Stickers, an informative space built around real world understanding of stickers and everyday use. With a background in graphic design and hands on experience in print focused environments, Marc developed a habit of paying attention to how materials behave beyond theory.

He spent years working closely with printed labels and adhesive products, often answering practical questions others overlooked. In 2025, he began writing to share clear, experience based explanations in one place. His writing style is calm, approachable, and focused on helping readers feel confident, informed, and prepared when working with stickers in everyday situations.