Kiss Cut vs Die Cut Stickers: What's the Difference?
Die cut stickers are cut through sticker and backing into a custom shape. Kiss cut stickers are cut through the vinyl only, staying on a square backing — easier to peel and post.
Die cut stickers are cut all the way through — sticker and backing — so the finished product is the shape of your design. Kiss cut stickers are cut through the vinyl layer only, leaving the sticker sitting on a larger (usually square) backing sheet, which makes them easier to peel, protects edges in the post, and allows printing on the backing.
Which should you choose?
| Die cut | Kiss cut | |
|---|---|---|
| Finished look | Premium — the shape is the product | Sticker on visible backing |
| Peeling | Fiddlier, edges exposed | Easy, edge protected |
| Posting/packaging inserts | Fine | Better (backing protects) |
| Backing branding | No | Yes — print instructions/logo behind |
| Cost | Similar at small runs | Similar |
What about sticker sheets?
Multiple kiss-cut designs on one sheet — the cheapest per-design route when you want variety (e.g. six small designs for packaging). Popular with makers and market traders.
Artwork requirements
Supply the design with a separate cut line (a vector path), or send the design and we'll build the cut line with a small offset. Custom shapes need 3mm bleed beyond the cut path and no critical detail within 2mm inside it.
Material choices
Waterproof vinyl (gloss or matt) for products, bottles and outdoor use; paper stock for cheap indoor labels and packaging seals. Costs and minimums here.
FAQ
Which lasts outdoors? Vinyl either way — the cut style doesn't affect durability. Small runs possible? Yes — short-run stickers in Ipswich without four-figure minimums. Laptop stickers? Die cut matt vinyl is the classic spec.
Last updated: 16 June 2026