Stickers - Die-Cut vs. Kiss-Cut

Stickers: Everything you need to know about the popular stickers – and the difference between die-cut and kiss-cut

Stickers have become an indispensable part of our everyday lives. Whether as advertising material, decorative elements or as an expression of one's own personality - the small adhesive images can be used in many different ways. There are different types of stickers, each of which is suitable for different purposes. Two of the most well-known types of stickers are die-cut and kiss-cut . In this blog entry, you will learn what these terms mean, what the differences are and when which type of sticker is the better choice.

Why stickers are so popular

Stickers are not only fun for kids, but also a versatile tool for adults and businesses. They serve as a creative medium to promote a brand, spread a message or simply bring joy. They can be applied to almost any surface - from laptops and water bottles to cars and walls. It's no wonder that stickers have experienced a real renaissance in recent years.

What are die-cut stickers?

Die-cut stickers are precisely cut to the contour of the design. Both the sticker itself and the carrier material are punched out in the desired shape. The result is a sticker that exactly matches the shape of the design - whether round, square or in a unique, individual shape.

Advantages of die-cut stickers:

• High-quality appearance, as the design determines the entire shape of the sticker.

• Ideal for creative, eye-catching stickers that stand out from the crowd.

• Perfect for marketing as they look professional and tailored.

Application examples:

• brand logos

• illustrations and works of art

• Individual product packaging

What are kiss-cut stickers?

Kiss-cut stickers are also cut into the desired shape, but the carrier material (the background) remains intact. The cut only penetrates the top layer, i.e. the sticker itself, but not the carrier material. This leaves a rectangular or square background from which the sticker can easily be removed.

Advantages of kiss-cut stickers:

• Easier to remove because the sticker is protected by the additional carrier material.

• More space for additional information or decorative elements on the background.

• Particularly suitable for sticker sheets on which several designs are combined.

Application examples:

• Sticker sheets with several small stickers.

• Advertising materials with additional text information or logos.

• Gift items with writable background.

The main differences between Die-Cut and Kiss-Cut

feature Die-Cut kiss-cut

carrier material Will be cut in the same shape as the sticker. Remains intact, sticker is easily removable.

optics High quality, tailor-made. Functional, with additional space on the background.

deductibility A little harder to pull off. Easier thanks to the intact carrier material.

possible uses Branding, single stickers. Sticker sheets, promotional materials.

Which type of sticker is right for you?

The choice between die-cut and kiss-cut depends entirely on your intended use:

• If you want eye-catching, custom stickers that put the design front and center, die-cut stickers are the perfect choice. They look professional and are ideal for branding or artistic purposes.

• If you are planning sticker sheets or simple promotional materials where functionality and ease of use are paramount, you should choose kiss-cut stickers.

Conclusion

Stickers are a creative and versatile medium that comes in a variety of shapes and designs. The choice between die-cut and kiss-cut stickers depends largely on how you plan to use them. Both options have their advantages and it's worth knowing the differences to get the best result for your project.

Do you already have an idea for your own stickers? Whether die-cut or kiss-cut – with a creative design and high-quality production you can definitely make an impression!