Die Cut vs Kiss Cut Stickers: What's the Difference?

Die Cut vs Kiss Cut Stickers: What's the Difference?

Laura Laura
5 minute read

What is the Difference Between Die Cut and Kiss Cut Stickers, the Quick Answer:

Die Cut Stickers are cut to the shape of your design. The stickers are cut all the way through the backing paper, giving them a professional look even before they have been applied.

Kiss Cut Stickers are not cut through the backing paper, so the backing paper acts as a frame around the sticker. Kiss cut stickers are often printed onto sheets, but they can be made individually as well. 

The first peel-off, self-adhesive labels - the precursor of modern stickers - were invented by R Stanton Avery in 1935, today stickers are more popular than ever, and with a huge range of materials, designs, and styles, stickers are a great tool for marketing, labeling, or just expressing values or ideas. 

Today we'll talk about the difference between two popular types of stickers - die-cut and kiss cut so you can decide which is better for your project.

What Are Kiss Cut Stickers

Kiss-cut stickers are custom stickers cut through the sticker layer only, leaving the backing paper intact. Sticker sheets are a very common application of kiss-cutting stickers. However, individual kiss-cut stickers are also relatively common. 

Kiss-Cut Sticker Benefits

There are several benefits that kiss-cut stickers offer over die-cut stickers. 

First, there is additional space for printing because they have an intact backing sheet that frames the design. Adding extra branding or information you may want on something other than the sticker itself is easy. You can add your brand name, logo, QR code, website, or more in the extra space. 

Another great benefit of Kiss Cut is the option to put multiple stickers on a single sheet. Whether its multiple copies of one design, or a bunch of different designs on one sheet. 

Finally, since the cut does not go through the backing paper, it's easier to make highly intricate cut patterns without losing the structure and stability of the finished sticker. 

kiss cut sticker sheets

Regarding quality and durability, we use vinyl for all our sticker sheets. This means they are durable and weatherproof. They are laminated, so the print is protected from scratches, sunlight, and more. 

Cost-wise, kiss cut stickers are also a great value, especially compared to other promotional products like t-shirts.

When To Use Kiss-Cut Stickers

Kiss-cut stickers have a wide range of applications. Undoubtedly, they can be used as promotional material for your brand. Alternatively, you can use your kiss-cut design to brand your packages and orders. Some additional uses of kiss-cut stickers include:

  • Branding purposes
  • Business tasks
  • Labeling products and inventory

Unlike die-cut stickers, kiss-cuts are easy to peel, meaning that you can peel and apply them quickly. What’s more, extra details of the design can be added to the backing sheet around the sticker for extra information.

Custom Sticker Sheets

Custom Sticker Sheets

$8.99

Custom Sheet Stickers | Waterproof Kiss Cut Stickers Custom Stickers are the full-color classics. Our Kiss Cut Sticker Sheets are a fast and easy way to promote your business, brand, or event. You can get multiple stickers on one sheet. Printed on… read more

What are Die-Cut Stickers

Die-cut stickers, on the other hand, are cut through both the sticker material and the backing paper, resulting in a sticker that matches the exact shape of the design. This cutting method creates a custom-shaped sticker with no extra material around the edges, offering a clean, precise look ideal for eye-catching designs and branding purposes.

Die-Cut Sticker Benefits

Die-cut stickers are ideal for handing out because they are made up of a single, professional-looking design or logo. Many companies also include them as freebies in packages or products. Think Apple, and the inclusion of the Apple logo in all iPhone and iPad products.

Another great use case for die cut, is when you want a single logo or image to be the focus of the sticker. Since they don't have excess vinyl surrounding the design, the main design is front and center, leading to a memorable and eye-catching look.

Logos are a super common use case for businesses.

die cut stickers

Die-cut stickers have a more appealing look and are often preferred for “customer-facing” tasks. For example, businesses might use die-cut stickers as a free gift, as promotional material, or as part of their marketing effort.

Finally, die cut stickers are sometimes easier to apply, since they don't have excess vinyl and material getting in the way. Not a huge benefit, but worth mentioning.

Die Cut Stickers

Die Cut Stickers

$5.99

Description Custom Die Cut Stickers | Waterproof Die Cut Stickers Die Cut Stickers are our best-selling product. Die cut means that we cut your stickers to the shape of your design. This gives them a fantastic look even before they've been applied. They… read more

How to Design Stand-out Stickers

Here are a handful of design tips to consider no matter which type of sticker you choose.

  1. Simplicity: Keep the concept clear and straightforward to ensure immediate understanding.
  2. Shape: Utilize unique or non-traditional shapes to grab attention and make your sticker memorable.
  3. Minimal Detail: Overly intricate designs can clutter the sticker, diluting its impact. Opt for a cleaner look.
  4. Brand Colors: Align sticker colors with your brand to strengthen brand recognition and association.
  5. Text Readability: If text is used, ensure it's large and clear enough to be easily read from a distance.

Bottom Line: Consult an Expert Sticker Designer

Custom stickers are an affordable and highly customizable marketing option for most businesses. Check out all our sticker options and decide what makes sense for you. But no matter your budget, you can avoid redesigns and unnecessary waste by getting in touch with a professional and finding the right sticker type for your unique needs. Get in touch with our team before submitting your order!

Now take a look at our guide on Raster vs Vector images

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