Kiss cut vs die cut stickers are two popular sticker options for businesses and individuals. You often see them on phones, laptops, cars, and other items. But what’s the difference between these two types of stickers? In this article, we will explain what is a die cut sticker and kiss cut sticker. We also explore kiss cut sticker vs die cut differences in further detail so you can make an informed decision when choosing which style of sticker suits your needs.
What are kiss cut stickers?
Definition
Kiss cut stickers are stickers that are cut through the material layer only, while the backing paper remains intact. This creates a border around your design which enables you to peel your custom stickers much more easily.
Methods of production
Stickers of the kiss-cut kind are stickers that have been die-cut to take on a particular form. During this step, you will cut through the vinyl substance of the sticker with a sharp blade. However, the adhesive backing will remain intact. The end product is a sticker that can be peeled right off its backside and adhered to any flat surface.
Benefits and drawbacks
Benefits:
- The backing material protects the edges of the sticker until peeled away, which prevents wear and tear during transportation or handling.
- They are easier to peel off, especially if your design has complex or delicate edges.
- You can use the backing material for branding purposes, such as adding your logo or website.
Drawbacks:
- They may look less appealing or professional as they have extra backing material around the sticker.
- Multi-up stickers on a sheet.
- Can’t judge the finished look until the backing paper is removed.
What are die cut stickers?
Definition
Die cut stickers are stickers that are cut precisely to the shape of your design, so there is no extra backing material around the sticker.
You may want to read more on our related blog “What are die cut stickers? Die cut sticker vs. regular stickers“
Methods of production
Die-cut stickers are made using a metal die etched with the appropriate shape to cut through the sticker’s vinyl, leaving the design in its intended form. Since the die for cutting the sticker may be designed to cut any form, this opens up various options for the sticker’s dimensions and layout.
Benefits and drawbacks
Benefits
- They are cost-efficient, as they require less cutting per sticker and less material waste.
- They look good, have a clean and professional appearance that matches your design.
- They are popular and widely used for various purposes, such as branding, promotion, decoration, and personalization.
Drawbacks
- They may be more prone to damage during transportation or handling, as they have no extra backing material to protect their edges.
- They may be more difficult to peel off, especially if your design has complex or delicate edges.
- They may not allow you to use the backing material for branding or marketing purposes, as they have no extra space around the sticker.
How do kiss cut vs die cut stickers differ?
Kiss cut vs die cut stickers are two kinds that are widely used in both personal and commercial projects. Despite the fact that these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, die cut vs kiss cut stickers are two distinct types. It’s also worth noting that each option will work with a certain set of materials and applications.
So, below is a deep comparison of kiss cut vs die cut stickers. We will compare them focusing on three primary aspects: their appearance, functionality, and production process.
Appearance
Kiss cut stickers have a larger paper backing that surrounds the sticker, which can be used for branding or marketing purposes. Die cut stickers have no extra backing material, which gives them a clean and professional look that matches the design.
Kiss cut vs die cut stickers look exactly the same once they are peeled and applied. They can both be printed on any material and have any shape or size.
Functionality
Kiss cut stickers are easier to peel off, especially if the design has complex or delicate edges. Die cut stickers may be more difficult to peel off, as they have no extra space around the sticker.
Kiss cut stickers protect the edges of the sticker from damage during transportation or handling, as they have extra backing material. On the other hand, die cut stickers have no extra protection. So, they may be more prone to damage.
Production process
Kiss cut stickers are made by cutting only through the sticker material and not the paper backing, using a laser or a metal die that lightly touches or “kisses” the paper.
Oh the other hand, die cut stickers are made by cutting through both the sticker material and the paper backing, using a rotary die cutter, a flatbed cutter, or a laser cutter.
After learning the specific differences between kiss cut stickers vs die cut stickers, the biggest consideration is: between kiss cut vs die cut cutting method, which one should you choose?
Which cutting method should you choose?
There is no definitive answer to which cutting method you should choose between kiss cut vs die cut, as it depends on your personal preference and needs. However, here are some general guidelines that may help you decide to choose between kiss cut stickers vs die cut stickers:
Design complexity
If your design is complex or has delicate edges, you may want to choose kiss cut stickers, as they are easier to peel off and protect the shape of your sticker. In contrast, if your design is simple or has clear edges, you may want to choose die cut stickers, which have a clean and professional appearance that matches your design.
Intended use
Suppose you intend to use the stickers for branding or marketing purposes, you may want to choose kiss cut stickers. They allow you to use the extra backing material for adding your logo or website.
However, in the event you consider to use the stickers for decoration or personalization purposes, you should choose die cut stickers. These stickers have no extra backing material that may interfere with the surface.
Budget
In case you have a tight budget, choose die cut stickers. They tend to be lower cost than kiss cut stickers due to less cutting and material waste.
When your budget is more flexible, you can purchase kiss cut stickers because they offer more variety and flexibility in terms of design and shape.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Consider these factors to choose which one is better for you. After evaluating all considerations, if you still can not find out which suits your needs better, you can also order kiss cut vs die cut stickers samples. This method will help you make the final decision.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting kiss cut vs die cut stickers for your projects and products, understanding the differences between them is important.
While kiss cut stickers are more cost-effective, they can be challenging to peel off after application. Die cut stickers provide better performance with a guaranteed result but there’s an added cost associated with them. And there are more differences mentioned above.
Understanding these will help you decide which type of sticker should you choose when working on your project. Now, after reading our analysis, it’s time you pick out the more suitable sticker types between kiss cut vs die cut. Hopefully, we can help you find out one that meets your unique preferences and usage scenarios.
