Who invented stickers and when?

Stickers were invented in 1935

Let’s start with the big question: When were stickers invented? Most people agree the answer is 1935, the year modern stickers made their official debut. It was the beginning of a new concept in labelling, and it would soon change how we tag, decorate, and communicate through sticky paper.

That year, self-adhesive labels became a reality thanks to one clever inventor.

Meet the father of the modern sticker: R. Stanton Avery

Inventor R. Stanton Avery (sometimes known as Stan Avery or Ray Stanton Avery) is the guy who made sticker history. He developed the first self-adhesive label using a clever system that included adhesive paper, a backing layer, and pressure-sensitive glue. This allowed for easy removal and quick application — no water, no mess.

His invention wasn’t just a new kind of label. It was the first self-adhesive sticker, what many people now call the beginning of modern stickers. And it didn’t stop there. Avery went on to found the Avery Products Corporation, which eventually became Avery Dennison, a name still connected to sticker innovation and Avery adhesives today.

Were there ancient stickers?

Before modern inventions, people still found ways to label things. Ancient Egyptians used ivory tags, bone, and papyrus to mark storage containers and trade goods. These were like the earliest price tags or name tags, but without adhesive. Just tied or tucked into place.

So while ancient Egypt may not have invented stickers, they certainly understood the value of a good label.

The postage stamp revolution: 1839

In 1839, Rowland Hill (also known as Sir Rowland Hill) created the first self-adhesive postage stamp. It was a huge step forward for communication and labelling. These postal stamps had glue on the back that you had to lick — so they were sticky, but not self-adhesive.

Still, this was an early clue that adhesive labels could be mass-produced and standardised. The concept of a sticker was evolving.

Stickers after 1935: from business to pop culture

After Avery’s invention, stickers evolved quickly. First, Avery labels helped businesses display prices, track inventory, and ship goods. Then came the sticker craze of the 1960s and 70s.

• Kum Kleen price stickers made pricing items easier in shops
• Kids fell in love with sticker books
  
  
• Artists started using stickers as street art and graffiti
  
  
• Tech lovers personalised their gear with laptop stickers and decals
  
  
• Brands began offering custom stickers in all shapes and sizes

Today, contemporary stickers are part of everyday life, found on everything from packaging to temporary tattoos.

Why do we love stickers so much?

Stickers have a timeless appeal. They’re affordable, customisable, and let you express yourself. Whether you want to decorate your water bottle, brand your business, or relive childhood memories, stickers today are more versatile than ever.

Whether it's a modern day sticker or one of the first stickers ever made, their charm has always stuck with us.

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