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Stickers are one of the most fun and versatile merch items out there. Who doesn’t love stickers? With so many sizes, shapes, and design options, they make great swag for brands, influencers, events, and more. But what’s the difference between kiss cut vs die cut? The cutting technique impacts the sticker shape, edges, and usage. Die cut stickers have crisp edges perfect for logos. Kiss cut stickers lend themselves to custom shapes and photos.
This post breaks down the pros, cons and ideal uses for kiss cut vs die cut to help choose the best method for your stickers business. We’ll also cover tips for working with manufacturers and integrating sticker merch into your ecommerce store or campaigns.
Let’s jump right in!
What is a Kiss Cut Sticker?
A kiss cut sticker is carefully cut from a vinyl sheet, but it does more than that. While many stickers are cut right through, the kiss cut makes sure only the sticker’s vinyl layer is sliced, leaving the backing whole. This cutting style gets its name from the delicate “kiss" the cutting tool gives, making sure it’s not too deep.
These stickers are made with high-tech machines—either laser or die-cutting—which are good at keeping the right depth. After printing your design onto a vinyl sheet, it goes through these machines. With pre-set settings, the machine’s cutting tool smoothly moves over the sheet, outlining the design’s shape while keeping the backing paper whole.
Pros of Kiss Cut Stickers:
- Easy to Use: The whole backing paper offers more grip, so it’s a breeze to peel and stick.
- Cost-friendly: Making them is simpler than die-cut stickers, which usually means better prices.
- Flexibility: You can stick them on your laptop, a window, or a notebook. They adhere seamlessly to various surfaces.
- Creative Freedom: With the machine’s precision, you can go wild with shapes, not just the usual ones.
- Toughness: Made of top-quality vinyl, these stickers can handle fading, scratches, and tearing. They might not last as long as die-cut stickers in tough situations but are strong for everyday use.
Cons of Kiss Cut Stickers:
- Aesthetic Concerns: The additional border, characteristic of kiss cut stickers, might not appeal to everyone.
- Comparative Durability: They might wear out quicker than die-cut stickers, especially if you’re tough on them.
- Visual Appeal: Die-cut stickers, cut right to the design, might have a fancier look.
What is a Die Cut Sticker?
A die cut sticker is a cool artwork. Unlike regular stickers with regular shapes, die cut stickers are custom-shaped the specific shape of the design. This means that both the vinyl layer and the backing material are precisely cut to match the sticker’s design, leaving no extra background or border.
The creation process mirrors that of kiss-cut stickers to an extent, but with an emphasis on precision. After transferring the design onto the vinyl sheet, it undergoes a specialized cutting machine. However, here, the machine is calibrated to slice through both the vinyl and the backing, resulting in a standalone sticker that embodies the design’s true form.
Pros of Die Cut Stickers:
- Unique Look: The precision of the cut, along with the absence of any background, gives it a pro look.
- Lasts Long: They’re made to last, especially when they get lots of handling, like on gadgets.
- Can Stick Anywhere: Made for all sorts of surfaces, they really shine where looks really matter.
- Keeps the Design: Every curve, edge, or detailed part of the design is kept, leading to the sticker you imagine.
Cons of Die Cut Stickers:
- Price: Being precise isn’t cheap. The custom cutting can bump up the price.
- Application Nuances: Due to the absence of any protective borders, one needs to be careful while applying to ensure that the edges adhere well and uniformly.
- Transportation Concerns: Without the protective backing seen in kiss-cut variants, they might be more susceptible to damages like creasing during transit.
Key Differences Between Kiss Cut and Die Cut
When comparing the main features of kiss cut and die cut stickers, it’s helpful to visualize their distinct characteristics side by side. Here’s a table to illustrate the differences:
| Feature | Kiss Cut Stickers | Die Cut Stickers |
| Cutting Depth & Precision | Cut only goes through the vinyl layer, leaving a border of uncut backing around the design. Offers protection especially during transit. | Cut goes through both vinyl and backing paper, yielding a custom-shaped sticker that exactly follows the design contours. Enhanced visual appeal. |
| Cost | Generally more cost-effective due to simpler cutting process. Only top vinyl layer is sliced, making production quicker. | Typically pricier due to the intricacies involved in the cutting process. Custom shapes require precision, leading to higher production costs. |
| Material Versatility | Adheres to a broader range of materials. Ideal for stickers, labels, and decals. Suitable for sticker collections on a single sheet. | More restricted in terms of material versatility. Unique shapes make them stand out. Preferred for branding, promotional materials, and packaging designs. |
| Applications | Perfect for situations where multiple stickers on a single sheet are desired or for simpler designs. | Ideal for situations demanding distinct designs, brand prominence, or when a custom shape can enhance branding. |
Which Type of Sticker is Right for You?
When selecting custom stickers, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to go with kiss cut or die cut. Both have their unique benefits depending on your specific needs and goals. Here’s a quick guide:
Kiss Cut Stickers
Best For:
- Beginners – The surrounding backing makes kiss cut stickers super easy to peel and apply, even if you’re new to stickers.
- Cost Savings – Kiss cut stickers allow for more stickers per sheet. Combined with more affordable production, they offer budget-friendly bulk ordering.
- Versatile Usage – With the backing layer, kiss cut stickers can adhere well to most smooth surfaces. Great multi-purpose option.
Die Cut Stickers
Best For:
- Distinctive Design – Die cutting accentuates customized shapes, lending eye-catching style. Great way for brands to establish recognizable visual identity.
- Durability – Die cut stickers last longer on frequently handled items like laptops, reusable bottles, etc thanks to durable materials.
- Targeted Messaging – Detailed die cuts enhance specific information & direct attention towards key elements like dates, locations.
Main Takeaway: Kiss cut = Cost-effective, User-Friendly Die cut = Striking Style, Longevity
Choose what best aligns with your goals and intended usage! Once decided, our Sticker Creation Guide will walk you through the entire sticker-making process seamlessly.
Now that you have known the key differences between kiss cut vs die cut stickers, don’t forget to check out our guide on How to sell stickers on Etsy in simple to start a lucrative venture!
Start your successful sticker business with Merchize
When you’re ready to turn your designs into quality sticker merch, partnering with the right manufacturer is key. Look for companies that specialize in custom stickers with options for kiss cut, die cut, and other specialty cuts.
Merchize is a great option – we offer super fast turnaround times, top notch printing quality, and materials like holographic stickers and glow-in-the-dark! Our platform makes it easy to upload designs, get pricing, order samples, and track orders.
Merchize can even help you seamlessly integrate stickers into your online store or merch shop using product APIs and automation. This allows you to scale sticker sales faster.
Promote your stickers by offering free samples in existing orders, social giveaways, and bundling sets for impulse buys. Use stickers to unlock loyalty and community – people love sharing and trading stickers!
With the right partner, cool designs, and smart promotion, custom stickers can become both a merch best-seller and great marketing for your brand. Slap your logo and designs on laptops, phones, and more!
