Inspiration, Tips and Advice

Die Cut vs. Kiss Cut Stickers: Which One is Right for You?

Stickers can be a creative outlet, and a perfect way to bring your brand to life. But when it comes to Custom Stickers, you’ll often hear two terms thrown around: die cut Stickers and kiss cut Stickers. Not sure which is the right choice for your project? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

This post will explain everything you need to know about die cut and kiss cut Stickers, from their unique features to their practical uses. By the end, you’ll know exactly which style suits your needs (and your brand).

Printed die cut custom shape stickers

Custom Shape Die Cut Stickers

What are Die Cut Stickers?

The Basics

Die cut Sticker printing produces Stickers cut into custom shapes that follow the design of your artwork. Imagine handing someone a sticker of your logo, only to find it’s been perfectly trimmed around the edges. That’s Custom Shape Die Cut Stickers!

These Stickers are precision-cut through both the vinyl and backing paper, creating a backing that perfectly matches the shape of the sticker. The result? A sleek, professional design that not only makes your Stickers stand out but also makes them easier to hand out.

We offer die cut Stickers in a variety of classic shapes like rectangle, square, and round. Looking for something a little different? Our custom shape option lets you bring your unique ideas to life with ease. Whether you prefer traditional designs or want to get creative, we’re here to help make your vision a reality.

Why Choose Die Cut Stickers?

1. Professional Appeal 

If you’re going for a polished, high-quality aesthetic, die cut Stickers are an excellent choice. That seamless shape screams professional branding and works especially well for logos, personalised hand outs or dynamic designs.

2. Great for Small Businesses 

For small business owners looking to impress customers, die cut Stickers can double as promotional gems. Use them in packaging inserts, giveaways, or customer orders to make your brand memorable.

3. Durability & Versatility 

Die cut Stickers can withstand a lot. Whether you use them to decorate water bottles, laptops, or car bumpers, their precise shape and tough vinyl material make them ideal for long-term use in any environment.

When to Use Them

  • Event Giveaways that let recipients decide where and when to use them.
  • Custom designs that benefit from having a clean, complete shape.
  • Packaging inserts for an added touch of creativity.

Fun Fact

Their name comes from the cutting tool (a “die”) used to shape them.

Printed die cut custom shape stickers

Custom Shape Die Cut Stickers

What are Kiss Cut Stickers?

The Basics

Kiss cut Stickers are also cut to the shape of your design, but there’s a key difference. Instead of cutting through both the sticker and the backing paper, it only cuts through the sticker itself. The backing paper remains intact, leaving the extra sheet material around the sticker.

This makes kiss cut Stickers ultra-easy to peel and handle, which is why you’ll often see them in sticker sheets or as single Stickers with a protective border.

Our kiss cut Stickers, are a great way to bring your ideas to life. They come in a variety of standard shapes, similar to our die cut options, and even include an Eco-Friendly Sticker Sheets for a more sustainable choice. Plus, Stickers on a Roll are also kiss cut with the outer vinyl removed, making application quicker and easier. Whether you’re looking for style or convenience, we’ve got you covered!

Eco Friendly Round Sticker Sheets

Image Credit – Bare Bones Chocolate

Why Choose Kiss Cut Stickers?

1. Easy to Peel 

The additional backing paper on a kiss cut sticker makes peeling quick and easy, making it an excellent option for sticker books or similar uses.

2. Application Speed

The easier peel means they are perfect for product labels, packaging, address labels, and other applications where quick application and turn around to customers is crucial. 

3. Space for Extra Branding 

That uncut backing paper? It’s prime real estate for additional branding! Print your company’s name, website, or selling points alongside the sticker for added visibility

When to Use Them

  • Brand Awareness campaigns looking to leave a lasting impression.
  • Packaging that deserves an extra special touch.
  • Promotional uses where an extra branding message can shine.

Top Tip

Want a variety of Stickers in one go? Kiss cut Custom Sticker Sheets allow you to print multiple designs on the same backing.

Kiss cut custom shape sticker sheets

Custom Sticker Sheets

Die Cut vs. Kiss Cut Stickers

Now that you know what die cut and kiss cut stickers are, the big question remains. Which one should you choose? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Key Differences

FeatureDie Cut StickersKiss Cut Stickers
DesignBacking cut to the shape of your designStickers cut to the shape of your design but left on backing paper
HandlingSlightly less flexible during peelingEasy to peel thanks to backing paper
Branding SpaceSticker-only focusExtra space for branding on backing
Best ForClean, professional aestheticsHanding out/giveaways

Side-by-Side Comparison

Choose Die Cut Stickers If You Want: 

  • A clean, polished look that highlights your design. 
  • Enjoy the flexibility to use individual stickers anytime, anywhere.
  • A versatile sticker style that works with any branding initiative.

Choose Kiss Cut Stickers If You Want: 

  • Extra protection for delicate, intricate designs. 
  • A practical option for quicker application to packaging and products.
  • Custom Sticker Sheets leave additional room for branding or notes on the backing. 

Maximise Your Marketing with Branded Stickers

Branded Stickers are a smart and budget-friendly way to elevate your marketing efforts. From enhancing packaging to promoting events, they’re a creative and affordable tool for growing your brand’s visibility. 

Whether you’re a graphic designer with bold ideas or a small business owner looking to strengthen customer connections, investing in sticker printing is a simple yet impactful way to engage your audience. It’s a personalised touch that leaves a lasting impression.

die cut branded sticker labels

Rectangle Die Cut Stickers

Why Quality Sticker Printing Matters

When you’re investing in Stickers, quality is everything. A professional printing service ensures:

  • Vibrant Colours (that won’t fade over time) 
  • Precision Cuts (to showcase your design perfectly) 
  • Sustainable Choices (Biodegradable options to make environmentally friendly choices)

Working with an expert printer means your Stickers will look and feel as premium as your brand.

Stick with Confidence

Stickers are more than just fun add-ons. They’re a smart way to extend your branding, create emotional connections with customers, and support practically every aspect of your business. Whether you go for kiss cut or die cut Stickers, make sure your Stickers truly represent your brand.

Want to explore our full sticker range? Take a look here. We’ve created clear and detailed artwork guidelines for both kiss cut single design Stickers and custom shape die cut Stickers. These guidelines are here to make it easy for you to prepare your artwork perfectly for printing.

If you are still looking for more expert advice our Customer Service Team is always happy to help bring your design to life.

About the author

Meet Drew! As part of the Printed.com marketing team, Drew spends her days crafting content. When she’s not working her magic on marketing, you’ll find her enjoying quality time with her daughter and her furry friend, Archie.

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