Are custom labels and stickers the same? At first glance, they may seem so, but, they aren’t. Many people assume labels and stickers are equal and use the terms interchangeably. Yet doing so is like comparing a movie to a video or a car to a vehicle. Well, there are differences between them. However, two of the biggest ones to consider in this article are, what are stickers and labels made from, and how do you use them. Here at Afrilabel, we produce both self-adhesive labels and stickers. So, we thought it may be useful to highlight the differences between the two and their uses. But, how you choose to use them is entirely up to you.
Custom labels and stickers similarities?
For instance, both custom labels and stickers are sticky. Often both labels and stickers will use a durable vinyl or film material that has a paper backing that protects the “sticky” adhesive. They’re available with permanent or removable adhesive. Printing on them often occurs on similar pieces of equipment.
What is custom labels?
The primary purpose of custom labels is to mark products or objects. Unlike stickers, custom labels contain information about products. hence this makes them suitable for packaging, shipping boxes, envelopes and warehouse shelving. Custom printed labels are available on either paper or film substrate. Custom label materials are often thinner and designed for quick straight forward peeling. Additionally, custom labels are mainly available in two formats. Sheet labels, that are perfect for smaller projects and as such, hand applying them tends to be the norm. Conversely, higher volume jobs are better suited to roll labels. This is due to their suitability for both hand and machine application.
What is custom stickers?
Custom stickers have endless usage possibilities, including brand promotion, team or club representation. Custom stickers are usually printed and manufacturers supply them cut on a sheet or roll. Unlike custom labels, stickers get sold or given out and generally, you don’t know their final use. The end-users decide what to with their custom stickers. It could put on a laptop, thermal bottle, skateboard helmet, window or kept to add to their collection. Moreover, due to exposure to tough environments, it is best to print them on either vinyl or film material. For added durability, some labels use UV layers. This guards them against things like water, sunlight and incidental scratches and scuffing.
Stickers are can be available in two formats –
Die-cut or kiss cut
Die-cut custom stickers when cut to size don’t have any extra backing or liner around the sticker. Consequently, these are perfect if you would like custom shapes like an Apple, Pear or Rose. But, when cutting Kiss-cut stickers only the very top substrate layer is cut. This leaves the paper backing intact, resulting in a free edge. This edge is useful for instance, to feature things like your company’s contact information or website. So, both custom labels and stickers are excellent tools to reinforce your business. Moreover, Afrilabel produces both kiss-cut stickers and labels on rolls. So whether it’s labels for your products or a sticker marketing needs get in contact and let’s chat.
