What are stickers made of?

Stickers might look simple, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. Behind every label, logo, or decal is a layered combination of materials that determines how it looks, feels, and performs.

At their core, most stickers are made of three main components: a face material (like vinyl or paper), an adhesive, and a backing. Each layer plays a crucial role in how the sticker sticks, resists wear, and holds up in different environments.

In this guide, we’ll break down the materials that make up a sticker—from everyday paper labels to weatherproof vinyl and specialty options like holographic or eco-friendly films. Whether you're curious about how stickers are built or choosing the right material for your project, you’ll find everything you need to know right here.

Paper stickers

Paper stickers are low-cost and best for indoor use. They work well for promotional items, packaging, product labels, and short-term labeling. Common types include matte and glossy finishes, or kraft paper for a natural look.

They’re not waterproof and don’t hold up to extreme heat, moisture, or wear. Avoid using them on flat glass surfaces, metal curved areas, or outdoors. They may leave adhesive residue when removed.

Vinyl stickers

Vinyl stickers are the most popular material for outdoor use. They’re waterproof, UV-resistant, scratch resistant, and can withstand elements like rain, heat, and cold weather. Use them on curved surfaces, plastic surfaces, flat surfaces, and more.

They’re made from white vinyl or clear vinyl, and some include matte or gloss lamination to protect against excessive handling. Many are created using permanent adhesive white vinyl for long-lasting stickers. Common uses include bumper stickers, safety labels, and stickers printed for business or personal use.

BOPP (Polypropylene) stickers

BOPP stickers are plastic-based and made for applications that require durability, such as withstanding elements like oil, water, and heat. They’re ideal for products that need to stay intact in cold weather or wet environments.

Common types include white permanent glossy BOPP, white permanent matte BOPP, and clear BOPP. These are often used for cosmetics, food jars, and refrigerated goods. They resist fading and tearing and don’t usually leave adhesive residue.

Polyester & PET stickers

Polyester and PET stickers are used when strength and durability matter, especially in resisting extreme temperatures. They resist heat, chemicals, and abrasion. These are often used for safety labels, equipment tags, and industrial parts.

They hold up on flat surfaces, plastic surfaces, and even near engines or machines. Most use a permanent adhesive and can last for years without peeling or fading.

Static cling

Static cling stickers are ideal for window application, sticking without adhesive. They work on smooth, flat glass surfaces like storefront windows and mirrors. They’re easy to apply, remove, and reuse.

Best for temporary signs, seasonal promos, or opaque surfaces where you don’t want residue. Avoid using them on textured glass surfaces or anywhere they might get wet.

Specialty materials (optional but valuable)

Some sticker materials have unique looks or features. Some specialty materials even glow green in the dark. These aren’t always needed, but can be useful for specific branding or design goals.

Holographic stickers

Made from metalized vinyl that reflects light. Great for making designs stand out on packaging or event promos. Works well on flat surfaces and curved surfaces.

Glitter stickers

Similar to holographic but with a holographic flake finish. Eye-catching and trendy sticker design, often used for fashion, stationery, or promotional items.

Magnetic stickers

Printed on magnetic sheeting instead of adhesive. Stick to metal and can be moved or reused. Good for vehicles, appliances, or flexible signage.

Washi stickers

Made from thin Japanese paper. Often used in journals, planners, and crafts. They’re writable, semi-transparent, and easy to remove.

Eco-friendly stickers

Made from recycled or compostable materials. Useful for brands that focus on sustainability. May not last as long as white vinyl but serve a different purpose.

Adhesive types and their functions

The adhesive affects how well a sticker sticks and how easy it is to remove. For example, a permanent sticker uses a strong adhesive that ensures a long-lasting bond but may leave adhesive residue if removed. Choosing the right type helps avoid issues like damage or adhesive residue.

Permanent adhesive

Forms a strong bond. Hard to remove and may leave adhesive residue. Used for permanent stickers, safety labels, equipment tags, and long-term outdoor use.

Removable adhesive

Peels off cleanly without damage. Ideal for indoor use, short-term labels, promotional items, and painted indoor walls. Often used with low tack adhesive for easier removal.

No adhesive (Static cling & magnetic)

Static cling uses static electricity to stick to flat glass surfaces. No residue, great for temporary use. Magnetic sheeting attaches to metal. Reusable and easy to move.

Sticker finishes and laminations

The finish and lamination affect how a sticker looks and how well it holds up over time. An additional layer of transparent lamination protects against UV rays, moisture, and temperature extremes.

Gloss lamination

Adds shine and makes colors pop. Common on printed stickers used for branding or high-impact visuals.

Matte lamination

Gives a soft, non-reflective finish. Better for a natural look or writable surfaces. Often used on paper stickers or white matte vinyl.

Printing methods that affect material choice

The printing method influences which sticker materials work best. One such technique is 'reverse print,' used for clear vinyl, where white ink is layered behind the design for inside applications. It also affects cost, color quality, and durability.

Digital printing

Fast and flexible. Great for custom designs, small batches, and full-color prints. Works well on white vinyl, clear vinyl, and paper stickers.

Screen printing

Best for bulk orders and sticker sheets. It creates bold, long-lasting colors that resist wear and withstand elements. Ideal for bumper stickers, safety labels, and outdoor use.

Which sticker material is best?

The right sticker material depends on how and where you’ll use it.

• Use paper stickers for packaging, short-term labels, and indoor promotions.
• Choose vinyl stickers specifically created for outdoor use, curved surfaces, or anything that needs to last.
• Pick BOPP designed specifically for products exposed to oil, water, or cold, like cosmetics or food jars.
• Go with polyester or PET for industrial uses or safety labels that must resist heat and chemicals.
• Use static cling or magnetic sheeting when you need something removable or reusable.
• Try specialty materials like holographic, glitter, or eco-friendly for unique branding.

At Sticker it, we have a wide range of high-quality, custom stickers for every use. Whether you need durable, waterproof vinyl or eye-catching glitter stickers, our materials are designed to perform and impress.

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