Sticker and label printing guide: materials, shapes and finishes
Use vinyl for waterproof, durable stickers, paper for indoor and short-term labels, choose a cut shape that matches your design and add a gloss or matte laminate for protection.
Stickers and labels identify products, seal packages, decorate gifts and promote your brand wherever they stick. Because they live on different surfaces, the material and finish matter as much as the design.
Vinyl or paper?
Vinyl is flexible and water-resistant, which makes it a good fit for products that get wet, outdoor use and long-lasting stickers. Paper labels are great for indoor packaging, gift tags and short-term promotions.
- Vinyl: durable, waterproof, outdoor-friendly
- Paper: simple, writable, great for indoor use
Shapes and cuts
A kiss-cut sticker is cut through the sticker layer but not the backing, so it peels off the sheet. A die-cut sticker is cut to the exact shape of your design. Standard shapes such as circles, squares and rectangles are practical for labels, while custom shapes help promotional stickers stand out.
Protect with a laminate
A clear gloss laminate boosts color and protects against scratches. A matte laminate has a soft, modern look and reduces glare. For items that get handled often, ask about protective coatings.
Design and file setup
Add bleed past the cut line and keep text away from the edge. Use vector artwork for logos so edges stay sharp. If you want a custom cut, send a separate outline of the shape.
Where stickers work best
Product packaging, bottles, boxes, shipping labels, event giveaways and window decals are all common uses. Tell us where the sticker will go and we will suggest the right material.
Pick the material for where the sticker will live, then the shape and coating that fit your brand.
Discount Printing Team
Frequently asked questions
Are vinyl stickers waterproof?
Vinyl is water-resistant and durable. Ask us about coatings and options for specific uses.
What is the difference between kiss-cut and die-cut?
Kiss-cut cuts only the sticker layer and leaves the backing intact. Die-cut cuts through both layers to the exact shape.
Can I order custom-shaped stickers?
Yes. Send us your artwork and tell us the shape you want.
Need printing for your project?
Tell us what you need and we will prepare a no-obligation quote. Call (954) 709-8309, email sales@discountprintinggroup.com or send us a message. You can also visit our shop at 1249 Stirling Rd Store #10, Dania Beach, FL 33004.
Ready to start your order?
Get a no-obligation quote from our print shop in Dania Beach.