7 Small Business Ideas for Teens: Turn Stickers and Tote Bags into Profits

Think you’re too young to start a business? Think again. Today, teens are becoming creative entrepreneurs by turning their talents into income—no suit or startup capital required. With platforms like Etsy, TikTok, and Instagram, launching a business has never been more accessible or exciting. Whether you’re into art, fashion, or digital design, there’s a place for you in the world of small business.

Two of the most popular and profitable trends right now? Stickers and tote bags.

From bold quotes and aesthetic vibes to eco-conscious designs and personalized prints, stickers and totes let you express your personality—and sell it. The best part? You can start small, from your bedroom, using basic tools and your creativity.

Here are 7 small business ideas for teens that combine your passion with profit, all while spotlighting the booming trend of stickers and tote bags.

1. Launch a Custom Sticker Shop

Stickers are tiny but mighty when it comes to profit potential. Whether it’s laptop stickers, water bottle decals, or planner decorations, people love to personalize their stuff—and your designs could be exactly what they’re looking for.

Startup Tips:

• Use free design tools like Canva, Procreate, or Adobe Express.

• Start with themes that reflect your style or passions (quotes, pop culture, cute animals, aesthetics).

• Sell on Etsy, Redbubble, or at local school events.

• Invest in a Cricut machine or order professionally printed stickers batches when sales grow.

Why It Works: Stickers are inexpensive to make and sell, but they have high appeal and are easy to ship or offer as digital downloads.

2. Design and Sell Custom Tote Bags

Eco-friendly, reusable, and stylish—tote bags are more than just a trend. They’re a fashion statement and a practical everyday item. From students to shoppers, everyone needs a tote, and teens are creating bold, fun designs that stand out.

Startup Tips:

• Start with simple screen printing or heat transfer vinyl (HTV) for your first batches or find a good supplier like these we recommend.

• Use Canva or hand-drawn art for your designs.

• Focus on niches: mental health quotes, fandom themes, school pride, or sustainability slogans.

• Sell them online or through pop-up events and school fundraisers.

Why It Works: Tote bags are the perfect canvas for creative expression—and people are willing to pay more for unique, handmade styles.

3. Create Matching Sticker & Tote Bag Collections

Why sell one when you can sell both? Design a themed collection where your stickers and tote bags match—like a “Back-to-School Vibes” pack or a “Self-Love & Positivity” bundle. This idea lets you build a mini-brand and increase your average order value.

Startup Tips:

• Pick 3–5 coordinating designs for each collection, when printing always look for good quality providers, these are my recommendations.

• Offer bundle pricing or free digital stickers with a tote purchase.

• Promote your collections on Instagram and Pinterest with lifestyle photos.

Why It Works: Shoppers love cohesive, themed products—and bundling makes your offer feel more valuable and curated.

4. Sell Custom Name or Monogram Stickers

Personalization sells. Teen entrepreneurs can offer custom name stickers for notebooks, phone cases, planners, or water bottles. These are especially popular for back-to-school season or gifts.

Startup Tips:

• Offer a variety of fonts, colors, and shapes.

• Let buyers choose their name or initials during checkout.

• Use waterproof vinyl for high-quality, long-lasting stickers like the ones stickermule prints.

Why It Works: People love seeing their name on things—it feels exclusive, personalized, and thoughtful, making it ideal for repeat and referral business.

5. Create Trendy Digital Stickers for Planners or Tablets

Not all stickers have to be physical! Digital stickers for iPads, GoodNotes, or digital planners are a growing market. If you love art or design but want a fully digital business, this one’s for you.

Startup Tips:

• Design in PNG format with transparent backgrounds.

• Bundle your stickers into themed packs (e.g., Study Set, Wellness Set, Daily Routine).

• Sell on Etsy or your own website with instant downloads.

Why It Works: No shipping, no inventory, and high-profit margins—digital stickers are perfect for creative teens with design skills.

6. Upcycle and Hand-Paint Tote Bags

Want to add a personal, artsy twist? Try hand-painting tote bags using fabric paint or markers. This is a great option if you love DIY, art, or fashion—and each bag becomes a one-of-a-kind creation.

Startup Tips:

• Use canvas tote blanks and fabric-safe paint.

• Consider custom commissions or let buyers choose from pre-made designs.

• Share time-lapse videos of your painting process on TikTok or Instagram Reels to attract fans.

Why It Works: Handmade items feel special—and buyers love knowing their purchase supports a young artist and isn’t mass-produced.

7. Offer Subscription Boxes with Themed Stickers and Mini Accessories

Take your sticker and tote bag business to the next level with a monthly subscription box. Each month, send your customers a fresh set of stickers, a mini tote, or even small matching items like keychains or pins.

Startup Tips:

• Start with a simple mailing list of interested customers.

• Offer seasonal themes (e.g., fall vibes, study starter kit, cozy winter).

• Keep it small—start with 10–20 subscribers and grow from there.

Why It Works: Subscription models create steady income and keep your customers coming back every month for more.

Conclusion: Start Creating, Start Selling

You don’t need to be a business expert or have tons of money to succeed. If you have a passion for creativity, design, and expression, you’re already halfway there. Whether you’re making funny stickers, or printing tote bags, or creating digital downloads, these small business ideas give teens the perfect path to explore entrepreneurship and earn real income.

Stickers and tote bags aren’t just products—they’re your gateway into the business world. They’re simple to start with, endlessly customizable, and give you space to grow your brand. Plus, every sale supports your dreams and shows the world what you’re capable of.

So grab your sketchbook, open up Canva, or pick up a paintbrush—it’s time to launch your first small business. Your creativity is your superpower, and now’s the perfect moment to turn it into a thriving side hustle.