The main difference between the two sticker types is the way the backing paper is cut. In die-cut stickers, the backing paper is cut completely according to the shape of the stickers. While in the kiss-cut stickers, the backing paper remains intact, and the sticker is cut according to the designed shape. Once peeled and applied to the surface, both look the same, but before peeling, they are very different in visuals, peeling experience, and even design. You will learn about the core difference between the two sticker types, their making, and intended uses in this blog. 

Key differences: Die-Cut vs. Kiss-Cut Stickers

Let’s look at the main differences between the two stickers before we go into the details. Here is a comparison of both the stickers:

Key feature	Die-cut sticker	Kiss-cut sticker
Backing cut	The backing sheet is also cut according to the customized shape	The vinyl layer is cut only while the backing remains intact
Appearance	Exact shape of your design	Has a backing of a rectangle, square, or any other shape
Peeling experience	A little difficult	Easy, as you have to peel from the border of the backing edges
Edge protection	Edges can bend occasionally	Edges can’t be bent because of the surrounding border
Extra printing space	None, the back is identical to the sticker design	Yes, the backing has an area where you can print a URL or a logo
Sticker sheets	No	Yes

What are die-cut stickers?

Die-cut stickers are the ones in which the vinyl layer and backing are both cut exactly according to the customized design options. This means that you do not see an extra border or white edges around the stickers. It does not matter what the shape of the design is; it is cut according to that. Be it a cat, a star, or any other shape. You exactly know how the sticker will look on the subject because the shape is very visible. 

How are they made

The die-cut stickers are made in the following way:

• Analyzing: 

The machine analyzes the design and maps out a vector path known as a “cut line” or “die line.”

• Printing:

The printing process prints high-grade inks on the vinyl sheets. 

• Lamination:

A gloss or matte lamination is applied according to the demand of the customers to protect the stickers from damage. 

• Cutting:

This is the most crucial part of making die-cut stickers. The blade applies high pressure to cut completely through the vinyl layer, adhesive layer, and heavy paper layer all at once. This step leads to the formation of die-cut stickers. 

• Finishing:

In this step, the prepared stickers are collected and checked for quality. These are then packed to be shipped to the customers. 

What are kiss-cut stickers?

Kiss-cut stickers are made in such a way that only the vinyl layer is cut according to the customized shape. The shape of the backing paper is usually square or rectangular. You can print the name of your company or URL on the extra space. 

How are they made

The initial steps of making kiss-cut stickers are the same as those of die-cut stickers. But the major difference lies in the cutting step. Here is what happens during that step:

• Vinyl cutting:

The blade applies pressure carefully and cuts only the vinyl layer while keeping the backing intact. 

• Backing cutting:

The blades cut the backing paper into square, rectangular, or broader custom shapes rather than precisely according to the shape of the design.

• Sheet packaging:

These stickers are also available in the form of stickers. Also, these stickers are recommended when you have different types of related stickers. 

Customized stickers 

There are different types of customization options available for these stickers, such as the following:

• Matte or glossy lamination 
• Spot UV 
• Foil stamping
• Holographic overlay for custom holographic stickers 
• Debossing
• Embossing

Common uses of these stickers

These stickers appear the same after they are applied. The use varies depending on their pre-applied states. 

Uses of die-cut stickers:

• Business promotion:

Many companies use these custom stickers to promote their brand at different events in a more innovative way. 

• Attract audience:

At different expos, many stalls use these custom stickers to attract the audience and give promotional codes for their businesses on these stickers. 

• Alternative for business cards:

Many smart businesses use these stickers to give the details of all their business and include them in goodie bags that are handed to different guests during events. 

Uses of kiss-cut sticker:

• Custom sticker sheets:

Many brands use custom sticker sheets that include stickers for planners, or even nowadays, meme-based sticker sheets are also popular. 

• Fast labeling work:

They are recommended when you want to paste the labels of your products quickly. This is because the peeling process of these stickers is easy. 

• Informational handouts: 

Brands use the extra space behind these stickers to print the URL and QR code, and/or other brand-related information that they usually promote at events. 

Pros and cons of each sticker type 

Here are the pros and cons of both types of stickers:

Type	Pros	Cons
Die-cut sticker	Looks premium even before it is applied Can be sold as a single item No extra paper wastage as borders are according to the sticker	It is often harder to peel The delicate edges of some designs may get damaged if not handled properly
Kiss-cut sticker	Easy to peel  Extra space on the backing paper provides room for branding Delicate edges are not damaged	More paper waste Not visually appealing at first sight

Intended use of both stickers 

If you are confused about which sticker to choose when you want to place an order for your products, here is a guide on which sticker to choose depending on your goal:

Goal	Sticker type	Reason
Selling individual items at a premium	Die-cut stickers	Promotes your brand in a very innovative way
Promote your brand at a business event	Die-cut stickers	Attract customers
Custom sticker sheets for planners	Kiss-cut stickers	When you want to make a custom sticker sheet of different events
Labeling products in the production line	Kiss-cut stickers	When your worker needs to speed up the reaction

Choose according to your needs

After reading this blog, you will be able to understand the difference between the stickers. This will help you choose wisely when you place an order for custom die-cut stickers or custom kiss-cut stickers. 

If you want to fasten the work for labeling the product, you should choose kiss-cut stickers. On the other hand, if you want to use them for a promotional or product launch event, you should go for die-cut stickers. If you are interested in the types of stickers and want to place an order, you can visit Custom Stickers Pro and start your order process.