Last Updated on January 30, 2022 by
Are you interested in getting some custom stickers for your new brand, project, or just because they look nice? Maybe you’ve come across the term ‘die-cut sticker,’ and you don’t really know what it means.
We’re here to explain everything about die-cut stickers, how they’re made, and when to use them. So let’s get stuck straight in!
Table of Contents
What are die-cut stickers?
The term die-cut means to cut around the edge of your artwork. A more appropriate name would be custom-shaped stickers. A die cut sticker is cut in a bespoke shape around your design’s edge through both the sticker and paper layers.
Significantly, die-cutting, in the sticker world, does not impact the material of your sticker. They can be paper, plastic, durable, waterproof, or neither – the material your label is printed on changes these characteristics.
Here’s a great example of a die-cut sticker:
Where does the word die-cut originate?
Time for some history.
Die-cutting was invented throughout the Industrial Revolution because manufacturers needed to produce standardized parts. Back in the mid-1800s, people cut pieces using a pattern and a knife. However, by the late 1800s, pieces got cut with die-cutting presses, mainly for shoe manufacturing.
Other industries slowly adopted the process of die-cutting, including the sticker & label industry.
How are they made?
Die-cut stickers are made in a number of ways.
Traditionally they’re cut with pre-made metal dies. Ultra-thin strips are formed into the required shape to make the die. However, they are mostly cut with digitally controlled knives and lasers to cut custom shapes of all sizes.
Read More: How to make your own Clear stickers?
Typical uses of die-cut stickers
Die-cut or custom-shaped stickers are the most versatile. They can be any shape, size, and material, so the choices and uses are endless.
Here are a few great examples of die-cut stickers:
These holographic stickers are individually die-cut in a custom shape around the head. They’re perfect for artists to sell on platforms like Etsy. The holographic material creates incredible, premium effects, making this design look awesome.
These are also printed on a holographic material but are a branded logo sticker. Add these to your packages to get your brand seen by more of your potential future customers. Big businesses like Apple and Google both do this – there are excellent reasons why!
And there we have it. We hope you know much more about what die-cutting is and how you can get beautiful stickers. If you have any questions, please get in touch below.
