Everyone loves stickers, you can place them on almost everything. There are however differences between stickers and their different uses.
You might have noticed that some stickers their colors fade over time, or you can damage them quickly. Allow me to explain the differences to you in this blog by using the stickers I offer in my shop ✨
Shapes and types
• Sticker sheets (kiss cut stickers)
Sticker sheets are sometimes called kiss cut stickers. They are precisely cut on their backing paper for easier peeling.
• Sticker flakes
Sticker flakes are the most known stickers. They are basically the opposite of a sticker sheet. Just one sticker, they come in many different shapes and sizes.
Different sticker materials
• Paper stickers
These stickers feel like regular paper which can be either matte or glossy paper. The type of paper can change a bit but in general these stickers are not waterproof or UV resistant. Which means they will fade over time if placed in sunlight. Often times sticker packs consist of only paper stickers, unless stated otherwise.
• Vinyl stickers
Vinyl stickers are the special type that can be placed on water bottles, skateboards and even cars. These stickers are waterproof and UV resistant which means they won't fall off when it comes in touch with water nor will the colors fade at all.
There are also stickers that have a special finish that feels like it's a vinyl sticker but are not water proof. They can withstand some water tho, so these are often called splash proof instead of water proof.
• Special effect stickers
In general terms these stickers are often vinyl stickers with a special foil effect in them. There are also paper stickers with a special effect on them, these are not waterproof or UV resistant but will have a fun (sparkly) effect on them.
So now you know the differences between sticker sheets, stickers and all their possible finishes. But why should you know this?
Each sticker type has a different use. If you wish to decorate a water bottle, it's better to look for vinyl stickers.
While vinyl stickers can be used in planners and other paper works, it often is a very sturdy thick paper and they are often more expensive to buy.
Personally I only use paper stickers on papers, like planners, letters or decorating envelopes. I use splash proof stickers and vinyl stickers on water bottles I hand wash and on phone cases or laptops.
As of writing this blog there will be more variants, seeing artists and product designers keep coming up with new cool ideas! I hope these general points can help you find the perfect type of sticker you are looking for.