How to Use Clipart: DIY Projects, Tips & Free Guide
Written by: WondersArtist
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Published on
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Time to read 13 min
💌 Introduction
Welcome, Wonderful You! 💖 If you’ve ever wondered how to use clipart in your crafts, cards, planners, or printable projects — you’re in the right place. This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using clipart, from file types and software tips to project ideas and licensing essentials.
🎨 At DearWonders, the official blog by WondersArtist, we help creative minds (like yours!) turn digital art into something joyful and handmade. Whether you’re crafting in Canva, layering PNGs in Word, or dreaming up your next Etsy design, clipart is one of the most versatile tools you can use.
In this post, you’ll learn:
What clipart actually is (and what it’s not)
Where to find it — free or paid
How to use clipart in Word, Canva, Photoshop, and more
Smart ways to organize your clipart collection
Creative ideas for crafting, journaling, and digital design
And as always, you’ll find a free printable sampler waiting for you 💌
Ready to learn how to use clipart in creative, simple ways? Let’s get started ✂️
Clipart is a digital image file — usually in PNG , JPEG , or SVG format — designed to be dropped into creative projects. Think of it as a digital sticker: a ready-made illustration you can add to cards, tags, printables, digital notebooks, and more.
🖼 The Evolution of Clipart
Old-school clipart : Remember the Microsoft Word days? Early clipart included basic cartoon icons, comic-style symbols, and quirky characters like that famous paperclip helper.
Modern clipart : Today’s clipart is beautifully hand-illustrated, high-resolution (300 DPI), and created by talented digital artists. It comes in themed bundles, often with coordinating elements like tags, sentiments, or backgrounds.
Whether you're buying from Etsy, browsing Creative Fabrica, or using WondersArtist bundles, modern clipart is now a go-to tool for DIY crafters, teachers, planners, and small business designers.
🌟 What Clipart Is:
A digital illustration file (not a font or brush)
Often with a transparent background (PNG or SVG)
Used for printing, cutting, decorating, or designing
🚫 What Clipart Is Not:
Not editable like a layered Photoshop file (unless it’s SVG or PSD)
Not meant to be resold as-is — most clipart has license limits
Not vector-based unless labeled as SVG or AI
Up next, let’s look at the common file types you’ll see when working with clipart — and how to use them on any device.
🔍 Common Clipart File Types (And How to Use Them)
When you download a clipart bundle, you’ll often see a few different file types. Each one has a specific use — and understanding them makes crafting so much easier.
📁 File Type Breakdown
File Type
Transparent Background?
Editable Layers?
Best Use
PNG
✅ Yes
❌ No
Most common; great for layering in any software
JPEG
❌ No
❌ No
Good for background use or when transparency isn’t needed
SVG
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Ideal for Cricut/Silhouette projects and scalable designs
PSD / AI
✅ / Optional
✅ Yes
Used in Photoshop or Illustrator for professional editing
🧰 What You’ll Typically Get
When you download a bundle (especially from places like Etsy or WondersArtist), it often arrives as a ZIP file. Inside, you’ll find:
PNGs and/or JPEGs (usually 300 DPI)
Licensing info or Terms of Use
Sometimes SVGs or layered PSDs
🖥 How to Open These Files
Windows : Right-click > “Extract All” to unzip
Mac : Double-click the ZIP file to unzip
Canva : Just drag and drop your PNGs to upload
Word/PowerPoint : Insert > Picture > This Device
Photoshop : File > Open or drag PNG into your canvas
Cricut Design Space : Upload SVG for cutting or PNG for print-then-cut
Even if you're not tech-savvy, you can work with PNG clipart in programs like Word, Canva, or any basic image editor. No fancy tools needed!
🧺 Lovely Clipart Bundles to Explore
Every crafting moment begins with a little inspiration - and sometimes, the right bundle of clipart or digital papers can spark a whole afternoon of joyful making.
Here are some of our most beloved WondersArtist bundles, all beautifully suited for printable crafts for adults:
These are just a handful from our ever-growing library of printable treasures. Whether you’re decorating a journal, making a seasonal card, or simply playing with paper and color, there’s a bundle waiting to inspire you.
🛠️ How to Use Clipart (Step-by-Step)
Using clipart might sound technical, but it's actually one of the easiest ways to create beautiful, personalized designs—especially once you’ve done it once or twice.
Here’s a gentle, beginner-friendly workflow to follow every time you use clipart:
✨ Step-by-Step Workflow (Beginner Friendly)
Download Your Clipart Pack
From Etsy, Creative Fabrica, WondersArtist, or another source.
The file will usually be in .zip format.
Unzip the File
Windows : Right-click the .zip > "Extract All"
Mac : Just double-click the .zip to open
Organize Your Files
Create folders like: Clipart > Artist Name > Theme (e.g. Clipart > WondersArtist > Autumn Leaves)
Canva : Drag the PNG into your uploads, then drop it into your project
Microsoft Word or PowerPoint : Insert > Picture > This Device
Photoshop : Drag PNG into your canvas
Cricut Design Space : Upload SVG or PNG for cut projects
Procreate (iPad) : Import via “Insert a photo”
Create Something!
Use PNGs to layer onto:
Journal pages
DIY greeting cards
Printable tags or labels
Planner spreads
Instagram graphics
Scrapbook layouts
Save or Print Your Design
For printing: Save as PDF or JPG, and print at 100% on cardstock or matte paper
For digital sharing: Save as PNG or JPG
This basic process works for almost all types of clipart, and once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature.
Next up: we’ll explore real projects you can create using clipart — from stickers to wall art. Ready?
🖼 Creative Projects You Can Make with Clipart
Clipart is one of the most versatile tools in the crafting world. Whether you’re creating something to sell or just adding joy to your own planner or journal, there’s no limit to what you can make.
Here are some beginner-friendly and creative project ideas using clipart:
🖨️ Physical Crafts
Handmade Greeting Cards Layer floral PNGs, sentiments, or themed clipart onto card fronts. Print, cut, and embellish with ribbon or glitter.
Printable Stickers Upload clipart into Cricut Design Space or use sticker paper to make your own sheets. Great for planners, journals, or packaging!
Junk Journal Ephemera Print vintage or seasonal clipart as journaling cards, tuck-in tags, and embellishments.
Scrapbook Pages Decorate pages with clipart borders, digital florals, and labels to match your themes.
Wall Art & Posters Create your own prints using botanical clipart, quotes, and watercolor backgrounds.
💻 Digital Products & Projects
Printable Etsy Products Use clipart in planners, printable worksheets, reward charts, or home decor.
Instagram Graphics or Pinterest Pins Layer PNGs over pastel backgrounds in Canva for soft, shareable posts.
Digital Planners & Notebooks Add clipart stickers, frames, or icons into GoodNotes or Notability layouts.
Small Business Branding Use licensed clipart in thank-you cards, packaging, or Instagram highlight icons.
You don’t need fancy equipment - just a basic printer or simple design software like Canva or Word can bring your clipart to life. ✂️
Next, let’s quickly review licensing - it’s a must-know before using clipart for business or commercial designs.
Before you start crafting or selling with clipart, it’s important to know what you can and can’t do. Every artist or shop sets different rules — and breaking them can lead to trouble (even if by accident!).
Here’s a simple breakdown to guide you:
📄 Common Types of Clipart Licenses
Personal Use Perfect for your own journaling, crafts, or classroom projects. No selling or sharing of the files.
Commercial Use (Standard or Basic) Allows you to sell handmade or digital products, often with usage limits (like 100 or 500 units). May require artist credit.
Extended Commercial Use Offers broader freedom — no usage limits, often no credit needed. Great for small business owners and creators who sell frequently.
💖 What Makes WondersArtist Clipart Different
All of our WondersArtist clipart comes with an unlimited commercial use license — included automatically with every product. This means:
✅ No usage caps — create and sell as many products as you like
✅ No extra licensing fees
✅ No required credit (but it’s always appreciated)
✅ Use in physical or digital designs (as long as the artwork isn’t shared as-is)
It’s our way of supporting your small business, your creativity, and your confidence as a creator.
✨ Smart Tips for Clipart Use
Keep a “Licenses” folder with each artist’s terms
Don’t sell or share clipart files directly (even freebies)
If you’re ever unsure, contact the artist for clarification
Use your license responsibly — it protects you and the artist
📦 Where to Find Clipart Online
Whether you’re making journal pages, cards, or digital products, finding the right clipart can make all the difference. From hand-painted watercolor bundles to educational icons, here’s where creatives love to shop:
🌟 WondersArtist (Our Favorite Place, of Course!)
Home to whimsical, cozy, and elegant watercolor clipart
Unlimited commercial use included
Bundles include themed clipart, sentiments, digital papers, and more
Creative Fabrica Huge library of clipart, fonts, and designs. Great for crafters, teachers, and Etsy sellers. Look for daily freebies and subscription deals.
Design Bundles Flash deals, lifetime access bundles, and affordable SVGs — perfect for Cricut or Silhouette users.
Etsy Discover unique, hand-drawn clipart from small artists. Licensing varies by shop — always check terms.
Teachers Pay Teachers (TpT) Clipart made specifically for educational resources, classroom decor, and student worksheets.
Freepik / Canva Great starting point for free clipart and design elements. Be sure to check license requirements — free use may require credit.
Each site has its strengths — some are best for bold, graphic styles, while others (like WondersArtist) specialize in soft watercolor magic and printable charm 🌸
🔧 Best Tools for Working with Clipart
Clipart is incredibly versatile — and the best part is, you don’t need fancy software to start creating! Whether you’re printing tags, designing cards, or selling digital downloads, here are beginner- and pro-friendly tools to explore:
🖥️ Easy Tools for Beginners
Canva Drag-and-drop PNGs into premade templates. Perfect for cards, planner pages, social media graphics, and more.
Microsoft Word or PowerPoint Yes, really! You can insert clipart, arrange elements, and even export as a PDF to print or share.
Google Slides Free and browser-based — great for layering images and designing simple layouts.
🎨 Creative Tools for Artists
Procreate (iPad) Add clipart as layers in your artwork, recolor, or combine with your own illustrations.
Photoshop Offers full control over layering, blending, and exporting. Great for printable designs and product mockups.
Cricut Design Space / Silhouette Studio Use SVG files for print-and-cut projects like stickers, cards, and decals.
✏️ Vector Editing Tools
Inkscape (Free) Open-source vector editor — great for working with SVG files and customizing designs.
Affinity Designer / Adobe Illustrator Professional tools for editing layered clipart, scaling without losing quality, and designing your own icons or stickers.
✨ Tip: If you’re just starting out, Canva is a gentle and powerful place to begin — you can always upgrade to Procreate or Photoshop as your skills grow.
🎁 Free Printable Craft Sampler
Every cozy project begins with something simple and beautiful — so we’ve tucked a soft little surprise inside this post, just for you 🌸
To match the calm, crafty spirit of this article, we’ve created a free Printable Craft Sampler — a gentle bundle of printable clipart elements designed to spark your next creative moment.
🌷 This free download includes cozy, seasonal designs — perfect for layering in your journals, printing for cards or envelopes, or adding a soft handmade touch to your day.
✨ Want to download it? Just sign up below and we’ll send your FREE SAMPLER straight to your inbox 💌
As a member of our creative circle, you’ll also receive:
Clipart is more than just an image — it’s a spark of creativity. It helps crafters, teachers, and designers bring their ideas to life faster, easier, and more beautifully.
Whether you’re printing a handmade card, decorating a journal page, or designing an Etsy listing, clipart gives you the power to:
✅ Save time — skip the drawing, start designing ✅ Add polish — even simple projects look professional ✅ Work in your favorite apps — Word, Canva, Cricut & more ✅ Create affordably — reuse it across dozens of ideas ✅ Enjoy unlimited creative freedom — every WondersArtist bundle includes unlimited commercial use
💌 This article includes a themed Printable Clipart Sampler — a gentle, lovely set of designs to help you test, print, and play. Scroll to the sampler section above to download your free treat.
And if you're ready to explore deeper — from exclusive bundles to weekly creative gifts — we’d love to welcome you into WondersCircle, our membership made just for digital crafters.
Until next time, keep crafting with heart 💖 We’re so happy to be creating alongside you.
📚 Want a clear overview of what the DearWonders blog is all about — and how it connects our cozy tutorials, free images, and crafting resources? Read what The DearWonders Blog is for the full story.
🎥 This Week on WondersArtist TV 📺
Feeling inspired to craft something meaningful? Join us on this week’s cozy episode of WondersArtist TV, where we guide you through making a heartfelt DIY graduation card using our Graduation Celebration Clipart 🎓✨
Whether you're celebrating a loved one’s milestone or creating a keepsake to tuck into a gift, this tutorial is a joyful way to honor the season — filled with watercolor charm and creative delight.
❓FAQs: How to Use Clipart for Crafts, Cards & Digital Designs
What exactly is clipart?
Clipart is a digital image file — like a PNG, JPEG, or SVG — that you can use in creative projects. It's often described as a “digital sticker” you can drag into your cards, journals, planner pages, or digital designs.
How do I open and use clipart after downloading it?
Clipart usually comes in a ZIP file. Just unzip it (right-click > “Extract All” on Windows or double-click on Mac), and then upload or drag your images into programs like Canva, Microsoft Word, Cricut Design Space, or Photoshop.
What’s the easiest software to use clipart with?
Canva is the most beginner-friendly. You can also use Microsoft Word, Google Slides, or PowerPoint — they all support PNG images and let you design layouts with ease.
Can I use clipart in physical crafts like handmade cards or stickers?
Yes! Print clipart onto cardstock, matte paper, or sticker paper. It’s perfect for DIY greeting cards, labels, planner decorations, and junk journal elements.
Can I sell things I make using clipart?
You can, if the clipart license allows it. All WondersArtist bundles come with unlimited commercial use, so you're free to create and sell your finished products without limits.
What file type is best for printing?
PNG is ideal because it usually has a transparent background and high resolution. Always look for 300 DPI for best print quality.
Do I need Photoshop or Procreate to use clipart?
Not at all! While those are wonderful tools, many crafters use Canva, Word, or even Google Slides — no fancy tech skills needed.
How should I organize my clipart collection?
Create folders by artist or theme (like “Spring Flowers” or “Vintage”). You can rename files for clarity and keep license info in a “Read Me” folder so everything’s easy to find.
Where can I find cute, high-quality clipart?
WondersArtist is a lovely place to begin. Our bundles include watercolor clipart, printable sentiments, seasonal tags, and more — all ready for DIY projects and small business use.
Do you offer free clipart?
Yes! Every article on DearWonders Blog includes a themed Free Printable Craft Sampler. Just sign up and we’ll send it straight to your inbox 💌
WondersArtist
Here’s a cozy little recap of what we explored in this article:
🖼 Clipart is a digital image file (PNG, JPEG, SVG) you can drag into cards, tags, journals, and digital designs
💾 Download bundles as ZIP files , unzip them, and organize by artist or theme
✂️ Use clipart in crafts like greeting cards, printable stickers, scrapbook pages, wall art, and more
🎨 Design software options include Canva, Word, PowerPoint, Photoshop, Procreate, and Cricut Design Space
🧾 Check licensing rules — all WondersArtist bundles include unlimited commercial use (no caps, no credit needed)
📚 Beginner tools like Canva and Google Slides make crafting easy and fun — no advanced tech skills needed
🧺 Create both physical crafts and digital products , from Etsy printables to Instagram graphics
🎁 This article includes a free clipart sampler — download it to start creating right away
🌟 WondersArtist clipart bundles are hand-painted, high-resolution, and perfect for layering, printing, and crafting
Feel free to return to any section above for inspiration whenever you’re ready to create.
