Creative Ways to Use Stickers, Decals and Magnets: 20 Ideas
Stickers, decals and magnets are the smallest items in a shop, and also the most flexible. They cost little, they travel well, and they can turn an ordinary object into something personal. If you have a few on hand, this guide shows 20 ways to use them, from a laptop lid to a fridge door.
Stickers, decals and magnets: what is the difference?
- Stickers are usually cut to a shape and stick to smooth, dry surfaces. See kiss-cut versus die-cut stickers for how the cutting styles differ.
- Vinyl decals are made for tougher places such as water bottles, car windows and laptops.
- Magnets hold to a metal surface, so they suit fridges, lockers and magnetic boards.
On the go: eight ideas
- Decorate a laptop lid. Leave a little space between stickers so the design can breathe.
- Label a water bottle with a decal. Wash it by hand to help the decal last.
- Personalize a travel mug or a lunch bag.
- Mark a suitcase so it is easy to spot at the airport. A luggage tag adds one more clue, see our travel accessories checklist.
- Dress up a plain phone case. For case ideas, see glossy versus matte phone cases.
- Brighten a notebook cover or a planner. Pair it with how to start a journal.
- Add a small decal to the back of a helmet or a guitar case.
- Put a pin button on a bag strap. See pin button, magnet and keyring ideas.
At home: six ideas
- Put a magnet on the fridge to hold a to-do list or a photo.
- Create a small message wall with magnets on a magnetic board.
- Mark storage boxes or jars with a decal. It is cheap and looks tidy.
- Decorate a desk drawer, a shelf or a mirror. Keep the surface clean first. More desk ideas are in desk setup upgrades.
- Brighten the inside of a cupboard door with a small quote.
- Add a decal to a window for a gentle seasonal touch.
As gifts: six ideas
- Slip a sticker into a birthday card.
- Add a magnet to a gift box as a small extra.
- Put a pin button on a gift bag or a thank-you note. See thank-you gift ideas under $30.
- Make a small gift set: a sticker, a keyring and a note. See our small gifts tier list.
- Use a decal on a plain mug or bottle, then wrap it. See how to wrap a gift.
- Fill a stocking with stickers, pins and a keyring. More ideas in stocking stuffer ideas under $20.
How to apply a sticker or decal cleanly
- Clean the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry fully.
- Peel the backing slowly and hold the sticker by the edges.
- Place one edge down first, then smooth the rest toward the other edge.
- Press from the center outward to push out air bubbles.
- Peel off any transfer tape slowly, at a low angle.
How to take care of them
- Hand wash items with decals instead of using a dishwasher.
- Keep magnets away from cards with a magnetic strip and from electronics.
- Do not stick items on freshly painted walls.
- Avoid a wet surface when applying.
Planning and timing
Everything in our shop is made to order, so allow about 3 to 5 business days for production, plus roughly two extra business days for non-apparel items. Check the Christmas 2026 order-by dates if you are buying for the holidays.
Ways to use stickers: FAQ
Do stickers damage a laptop?
Most stickers come off a smooth laptop lid, but leave a faint mark on some finishes. If you care about resale, use a removable decal and test a small corner first.
Can I use a decal outside?
Vinyl decals are made for tougher places. Even so, avoid pressure washing and harsh cleaners.
How do I remove an old sticker?
Warm it gently with a hairdryer, peel slowly and clean any residue with a little rubbing alcohol on a cloth.