How to Turn a Photo into a Sticker (Remove Background)

To turn a photo into a sticker, remove its background so the subject sits on a transparent PNG. On a supported iPhone you can touch and hold the subject and tap Add Sticker; on any device, a free background remover like imgmend gives you a transparent PNG you can use as a sticker or send to a printer.

Quick Facts
Core step	Remove the background → transparent PNG
iPhone (built in)	Touch and hold the subject → Add Sticker (supported iPhones, iOS 16 or later)
Any browser	imgmend background remover — no signup, 3/day free
For printing	High-resolution transparent PNG plus a cut line from your print shop's specs

Method 1: iPhone's Built-In Sticker Tool

1. Open the photo in the Photos app.
2. Touch and hold the subject until an outline appears.
3. Tap Add Sticker in the menu, as Apple describes in its iPhone guide. The sticker is saved so you can use it in Messages and other apps that support stickers.

Menu labels vary slightly between iOS versions, and not every device supports the feature. See our iPhone background removal guide for more.

Method 2: Make a Transparent PNG Sticker in Any Browser

1. Open imgmend.com/remove-background.
2. Upload a JPG, PNG or WEBP (up to 10 MB). Photos with a clearly separated subject cut out best.
3. Wait 10–30 seconds and check the edges on white, black and a custom color.
4. Download the transparent PNG. Free downloads carry a small watermark; Pro ($9.90 one-time) removes it.

Images above roughly 2 megapixels are scaled down before processing, so a very large photo comes back smaller — fine for chat stickers, but check the size if you plan to print.

Using Your Sticker

• Chat and messaging apps: WhatsApp, Telegram and others have their own sticker size and format rules (commonly around 512 px). Check the app's current requirements and resize or convert the PNG to match.
• Design projects: drop the PNG into Canva, Google Slides or PowerPoint; the transparent background lets it sit on any color.
• Printed or sold stickers: send the PNG to a sticker printer. Printers usually want a high-resolution file and add or ask for a cut line; follow their template and resolution guidance. Only sell stickers made from images you own or have rights to use.

Tips for Cleaner Sticker Cutouts

• Start with a photo where the subject contrasts with the background.
• Keep the subject in sharp focus — blurry edges produce rough cutouts.
• Check hair, fur and fine details at full zoom before you print or share.
• Face cutouts and photos of other people: get permission before sharing or selling stickers of someone's likeness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a sticker from a photo for free?

Remove the background and save a transparent PNG. On a supported iPhone, touch and hold the subject and tap Add Sticker. On any device, use a free browser tool like imgmend.

What file format should a sticker be?

PNG with a transparent background is the standard for digital stickers. Messaging apps may require their own format or size, so check their requirements.

Can I sell stickers made from my photos?

You can sell stickers made from images you own or have the rights to use. Don't use copyrighted images or someone's likeness without permission.

Remove a photo's background for a sticker — free →