Use a measuring tape to measure the area of the lighter on which you would like to apply your art design.
Open your design software on your computer and click "File," then "New." Click "Format" and enter in the measurements from the lighter. Use the software design tools to apply a pattern or create a new drawing. When you are done, click "Save," type in "Lighter" as the file name and save the file to your desktop.
Load the see-through, white or colored adhesive-backed paper into your color printer. Use paper on which you feel your design will look better. Load the paper so that when the file prints the design will print on the non-adhesive side. Open your "Lighter" file, click "File" and select "Print."
Remove the sheet of paper from the printer after your design has finished printing. Cut out the design with scissors. Carefully peel the backing from the paper. Starting at one end of the lighter, press the design onto the lighter, smoothing out air bubbles as you apply the design.