Making stickers is a fun and creative way of expressing yourself, but water can quickly ruin your stickers. The good news? Protecting your stickers is easier than you think! With a few simple techniques, you can make your stickers waterproof and keep them charming for a long time, even in tough conditions.

In this DIY blog, we will explore the science behind waterproof stickers’ resilience and review some of the methods you can use to shield your designs from long-term water exposure. First, we'll clarify the crucial distinction between water-resistant and truly waterproof materials.

Waterproof materials prevent water from going through their surface, for about 5-10 years. But you shouldn’t confuse them with water-resistant materials that only prevent light water exposure such as light rain and can only last for less than 3 years.

You will find that most stickers are made of water-resistant materials such as vinyl. Vinyl stickers have smooth surfaces that make water beads up and roll off. You may also notice that most vinyl stickers are acrylic-based, enabling them to weather splashes and light rain. But they can't do this for long, after a while, the stickers begin to fade and lose their quality.

So, what makes a sticker waterproof? Applying materials such as adhesive and sealants that are waterproof makes your stickers waterproof. These waterproof materials have hydrophobic properties—basically, they repel water.

Another feature that helps in their waterproof abilities is the polymers. They bind tightly and stop water from seeping through them. Therefore, waterproof stickers become a more suitable option for their durability and consistency even when they are exposed to water.

When creating stickers for items such as water bottles, cars, luggage, helmets, and bikes, it’s necessary to waterproof them as they are often exposed to water, abrasions, and UV rays. Waterproofing them helps you to keep them as good as new while you continue to use them.

How you prepare your sticker’s surface also matters. Before you attach the waterproof material, clean and dry the sticker’s surface. This will enable the waterproof material to bind well with the sticker.

Apply the waterproof material carefully with a little pressure so as to avoid weak spots such as bubbles that may reduce its effect. You can use tools such as a squeegee to smoothen them out. 

The following additives are used to improve the effectiveness of waterproof materials:

Let’s look at them individually:

When used, this additive forms a flexible, rubber-like seal. They are great for sealing around sinks or bathtubs, and you can use them for outdoor decals. Apply thin layers for best results.

These are additives that harden into a solid, water-resistant layer. They are ideal for permanent designs on boats or outdoor furniture.

This type of additive forms a tough, long-lasting bond, yet it remains flexible with resisting water. It’s a good choice for waterproofing fabric coatings, and outdoor signs or decorations.

There are several methods you can use to waterproof your current stickers, some of them include using clear sealants, laminating sheets, and thermal laminating sheets. Let’s understand how they work:

Clear sealants create a protective layer over the sticker, blocking water and UV rays to avoid damage. Common clear sealants used to do this include clear acrylic sealer and polyurethane spray. 

What You Need: 

Instructions: 

To apply the clear sealant:

• Wipe away any residue or dirt from your sticker using a clean cloth

• Spray or apply the clear sealant evenly over your stickers, making sure each area is covered.

• Let the clear sealant dry for about 30-60 minutes, before applying another coat. You can apply 3-4 coats for a stronger seal.

These are transparent, plastic films that protect stickers from water and UV rays. You can buy items like self-adhesive laminating vinyl and squeegee from physical or online art and craft stores.

What You Will Need:

Instructions

To laminate your sticker:

• Clear any dust or residue from your sticker using a clean cloth

• Cut the laminating sheet to be slightly larger than your sticker

• Peel off the sheet backing

• Carefully apply the sheet over your sticker and try to avoid any bubbles

• Trim the excess laminating sheet

• Use the squeegee to smooth out any bubbles that may form

This method is similar to using laminating sheets but for this, you will use a thermal laminating machine to heat permanent adhesive laminating sheets over your sticker.

With the above methods, you can now waterproof your water bottle’s stickers and see them survive the dishwasher time and time again. Before we get into a step-by-step process of using self-adhesive laminating vinyl to waterproof your stickers, make sure you have the following materials:

After collecting all the required materials, let’s walk through the step-by-step guide to waterproofing your stickers using self-adhesive laminating vinyl:

In your designing software, go on to file and select the print option to open the design in a print preview section. Select the print button to open the printing setup options.

Then set your printer’s name, the page setup to standard, page size to US Letter, and print quality to normal vivid.

Finally, make sure the design is clear in your print preview. Then select the print button in the printing setup options to print your design.

Measure your stickers, and record your measurements. Then measure the laminating vinyl you will use to be slightly larger than your stickers, and cut it. Then peel back the top part of the laminate backing. 

With the front of the laminate facing your stickers, carefully align the laminate over your sticker.

Then slowly roll your stickers back and peel them forward while using a squeegee to avoid bubbles.

Cut along the outer edge of your design. Move the paper, not the scissors to have laminated stickers with smoother cuts.