What's the difference between die cut and regular stickers?

The main difference between die-cut and regular stickers is their shape. Die-cut stickers are cut in the exact shape of your design, while regular stickers usually have standard shapes.

Let’s take a closer look at what custom-printed die-cut stickers are, what other sticker options exist, and when to choose each type.

What are custom die-cut stickers?

Die-cut stickers are custom-cut stickers that can be made in any shape. They're typically cut around the outline of your design or logo.

The name “die-cut” comes from the traditional manufacturing method where custom metal dies were used to create specific shapes.

Today, the die-cutting process is done digitally, which means you can create incredibly detailed shapes. Just take a look at this example below.

You can see even more cool die-cut sticker designs here.

When to choose a die-cut sticker

Choose a die-cut sticker if you want individually cut stickers in a custom shape.

They’re great for eye-catching logo stickers, custom packaging seals, limited edition releases, or just adding visual interest to packaging, boxes, or envelopes.

Depending on the material you choose, they can also be used outdoors for up to three years, or even run through the dishwasher!

What are regular stickers?

“Regular stickers” is a common term for stickers in standard shapes like circles, squares, or rectangles.

However, in the world of custom stickers, there’s really no such thing as a “regular” sticker.

Even if you choose a standard shape, you can still customize the material, size, and quantity.

Generally speaking, regular stickers refer to pre-cut stickers you might order from marketplaces like Amazon. See what other types of stickers are there.

What other custom-cut sticker options are available?

If die-cut, circle, square, or rectangular stickers aren’t quite what you're looking for, you might want to consider kiss-cut stickers.

Die-cut stickers vs. kiss-cut stickers

Just like die-cut stickers, kiss-cut stickers are cut around the shape of your design.

But while die-cut stickers are cut through both the vinyl and the paper backing, kiss-cut stickers are only cut through the top material layer, leaving the backing paper intact.

That might sound a bit technical, but this visual should help clear things up:

When to choose a kiss-cut sticker

Since the backing paper stays intact, kiss-cut stickers are easier to peel than die-cut stickers. That makes them perfect for branded giveaways. Why not include one in every order?

The great thing about kiss-cut stickers is that you get all the benefits of a die-cut sticker, plus some extra material.

You can even use the excess backing to print your business info or a QR code that links to your website.

Read a more thorough comparison of kiss-cut and die-cut stickers.

FAQs

Are die-cut stickers more expensive?

No, they’re not. It’s easy to assume die-cut stickers cost more than regular stickers because of the detailed cut line, but that’s not the case.

Our pricing depends on the type and amount of material used, not the time it takes to cut or print.

The price of your die-cut stickers may vary based on the material you choose.

You can explore each option using the live pricing calculator on the die-cut stickers page.

Can I get die-cut labels?

Yes, you can.

Just like die-cut stickers, die-cut labels have a custom shape, but they come on sheets (usually letter-size or half-letter-size) that you peel your labels from.

Once applied, die-cut stickers and die-cut labels look identical, no one would be able to tell the difference.

Recap

• Die-cut stickers are individually cut to match your design’s shape
  
• “Regular stickers” usually refers to pre-cut standard shapes sold on marketplaces
  
• With us, even standard shapes are fully customizable in material, size, and quantity
  
• Kiss-cut stickers offer a similar cut with extra backing, great for events and promotions
  
• You can also order die-cut labels on sheets for convenient storage and application
  

If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours. Or, you can see what type of custom stickers we offer!