How to Make Glossy Kiss Cut Stickers with a Cricut at Home

I’ve always loved the look of glossy stickers—whether it’s decorating my water bottle or journaling, something about that shiny finish just makes me happy. But when I started making stickers at home, I quickly realized not all glossy sticker papers are created equal—some weren’t waterproof, and some peeled way too easily.

After plenty of trial and error (and a few sticker casualties), I finally figured out how to make high-quality, glossy waterproof kiss cut stickers right at home using my Cricut.

If you’re a fellow sticker lover, a small business owner, or someone who just loves DIY projects, I’ll walk you through exactly what you need and how to do it.

What is a Kiss Cut Sticker?

A kiss cut sticker is cut through just the top vinyl layer, leaving the backing paper intact. This makes it perfect for sticker sheets—you can peel each one off easily while keeping the rest safe on the backing.

Materials + Tools

1. Inkjet Printer

(I use: Canon Pixma Pro 200)
You can use a laser printer too, but check if your paper is compatible.

• Pros: Easy to use, great color output
• Cons: Ink can smudge if not sealed

2.Sticker Paper

(I use: OnlineLabels.com matte inkjet paper)

• Pros: Built-in shine and water resistance
• Cons: Can be a bit pricey

3. Laminating Sheets or Self-Adhesive Clear Vinyl

This gives that extra glossy finish and protection.

• Pros: Boosts durability and water resistance
• Cons: Requires a steady hand to apply bubble-free

4. Cutting Machine

(I use: Cricut Maker 3)
Scissors work in a pinch, but for professional results and clean kiss cuts, a Cricut is your best friend.

• Tip: Older Cricut models work just as well if you’re on a budget!

5. Squeegee or Credit Card

(I use: Cricut squeegee – but any plastic card works)
Helps you apply laminate smoothly without bubbles.

Step 1: Create Your Sticker Design

Use design software like Procreate, Canva, Photoshop, or Illustrator to create your artwork. Here’s what to remember:

• File type: PNG with transparent background
• Resolution: 300 DPI
• Color Profile: CMYK for print accuracy
• Pro tip: Add a white outline around your stickers for that classic peel-off look.

Sticker Sheet Setup (Kiss Cut):

• Canvas size: 4.5 x 6 inches or 1350 x 1800px
• You can fit two sticker sheets per A4 page this way.

Step 2: Print Your Design

Load your glossy waterproof sticker paper into your inkjet printer. Use the best quality settings available.

Here are my go-to settings:

• Paper type: Premium Photo Paper Glossy
• Print quality: Best
• Color adjustments: Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Contrast all set to +10

Let your print dry for a few minutes before moving on.

Step 3: Apply Laminate

Once your sticker sheet is dry, apply a clear laminating sheet or self-adhesive vinyl.

Tips:

• Use a squeegee or card to gently smooth out bubbles.
• Important: Keep the laminate inside the Cricut’s black registration marks so the machine can read where to cut.

Step 4: Set Up Cricut for Kiss Cut

Cricut Design Space Settings:

1. Upload your artwork as a “Complex” image
2. Add your sticker image to the canvas and set size to 4.5 x 6 inches
3. Rotate 90° if needed, then duplicate (Cmd+D) to fill the page
4. Select all elements and click Attach
5. Click Make It
6. On the print screen:
   • Bleed: Turn OFF
   • Use System Dialog: Turn ON to tweak printer settings

Step 5: Cut with Cricut (Kiss Cut Settings)

Once printed and laminated, place your sheet on a LightGrip or Standard mat, lining it up with the small arrow shown in Cricut Design Space.

• Material Setting: Washi Sheet
• Pressure: More

Start the cut by pressing the flashing Cricut button on your machine.

Tip: When removing your sticker sheet from the mat, gently roll the mat away—this helps prevent curling.

Step 6: Use or Sell Your Stickers!

Your kiss cut, glossy waterproof stickers are ready to go!
Stick them on water bottles, notebooks, laptops—or even package them up and sell them in your online shop.

Watch: How Kiss Cut Stickers at Home

Want to see the whole process in action? From design to print to cut, I show you everything step-by-step in this video:

Don’t Want to DIY?

If DIY isn’t your thing (or you just want to treat yourself), I’ve got you covered!

I sell high-quality glossy waterproof stickers featuring retro vibes, playful designs, and a whole lot of personality.

Shop my sticker collection → https://www.retrobananadesigns.com/shop/retro-stickers

Ready to Make Kiss Cut Stickers?

With the right tools and this step-by-step method, you can easily make professional-grade kiss cut stickers at home. Whether you’re doing it for fun or launching your own sticker biz—this is where it starts!