When it comes to custom stickers, knowing the difference between die-cut and kiss-cut is key to picking the right one for your labels and stickers. Both options have their own perks and work better for different purposes, so choosing the right one for you needs is essential to ensure you labels are perfect for your requirements.
What Are Die-Cut Stickers?
Also referred to as; Custom-Shaped Stickers, Contour Cut Stickers, Decal Stickers
A Die-cut Sticker or label is produced by cutting all the way through both the top face and backing material to produce one final custom shape sticker or label, for example if your artwork is a rocket shape, your backing will also be a rocket shape, resulting in a clean custom shaped label with no extra backing material, however they usually cost more due to the extra production step of cutting both the face material and the backing.
Die-cut labels can be harder to peel, unless you get a crack and peel sometimes referred to as 'crack back' labels, which applies a cut down the centre of your backing material allowing you to bend and peel the labels more easily. Die-cut stickers offer a more premium finish but is less cost effective than Kiss-cut options, however they do have a cleaner edge if the overall finished appearance of your labels is important.
Key features:
Cut to shape: Die cut labels follow the contour of your design, whether it's a square, rectangle, circle, oval or a custom shape your design defines the shape of the backing.
Professional Finish: Die Cut labels offer a unique, sleek look to your labels and stickers with no extra backing around the design.
Design focused: Die-cut stickers are perfect for designs that need to stand out with unique shapes. Whether it's a logo, intricate artwork, or a custom shape, the die-cut process ensures your design is perfectly outlined.
Best for:
- Product Branding Promotions and Marketing
- Unique shapes and logo-centric designs
- Smaller runs for simple distribution
What are Kiss-Cut Stickers?
Also referred to as; Partial Cut Stickers, individually cut stickers, Sticker sheets
Kiss-cut Stickers are like Die-cut Stickers; however, the main difference is that only the top face of the material is cut through, leaving the backing material intact as a protective surround for your artwork, this is used for rolls, sheets and individually cut. Kiss-cutting produces an easy to peel secure option for any shape and size. Kiss-cut labels are a more cost-effective solution and very suitable for long runs.
The edge of the labels is less clean that Die-cut, so may be less suitable if the delivered appearance of the labels is important, this requires extra care when packing, as folding or damaging the backing could ruin the appearance, however Kiss-cut labels are easier to handle and store that Die-cut, and if choosing rolls give you the chance to set up your labels for automated machine application.
Key features:
Easy to Peel: due to the extra backing around the label your labels and stickers are much easier to peel by simply lifting and edge and peeling from the backing, perfect for more complex or intricate shapes.
Application: Kiss-cutting is perfect for producing labels on rolls and sheets, the intact backing forms part of the structure making mechanical application easier and offering more protection whilst your labels are in transit.
Practicality: Kiss-cut stickers and labels are combined with their backing meaning larger runs are much easier to handle, ship and store.
Best for:
- Longer runs and intricate designs
- Multi design sticker sheets
- Rolls and sheets
Design Tip: Embrace the Cost-Effectiveness of Individually Cut Kiss-Cut Stickers
We've found that individually cut kiss-cut stickers are both budget-friendly and easy to manage. Because the surrounding material is removed, each sticker peels easily, unlike die-cut / crack-back labels, which require bending the sticker and risking creases. Additionally, if you have different shapes cut to the same overall size, the similar backings allow for neat storage and lower the chance of damage. This approach helps distribution and maximises your return on investment.
Which should I choose?
Choose Die-Cut Stickers if:
You need a sticker that follows a custom shape and offers a premium look for branding or marketing. These are perfect for logos, intricate designs, and when the shape is important to the message you are trying to convey.
Choose Kiss-Cut Stickers if:
You are looking for cost-effective stickers in bulk, especially for giveaways or events. If you need multiple designs on a single sheet or a simple peel-and-stick experience, kiss-cut is the way to go.