> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.printery.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Stickers & Decals

> Design custom stickers for products, promotions, and branding

## Project Overview

Stickers are versatile marketing tools and products. This guide covers everything from simple round stickers to complex die-cut shapes.

<Note>
  **Time to Complete**: 30-90 minutes
  **Difficulty**: Beginner to Intermediate
</Note>

## Types of Stickers

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Kiss-Cut Stickers">
    **What**: Cut through sticker, not backing

    **Result**: Individual stickers on sheet, easy to peel

    **Shapes**: Any shape (die-cut around design)

    **Best for**: Custom shapes, logos, detailed designs

    ✅ **Most popular choice**

    **Example**: Logo sticker with custom outline
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Die-Cut Stickers">
    **What**: Cut exactly to shape (no background)

    **Result**: Sticker follows design contour

    **Shapes**: Custom (matches your design)

    **Best for**: Logos, characters, text

    **Same as**: Kiss-cut (often used interchangeably)

    **Example**: Circle, custom shape, letter cutout
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Sheet Stickers">
    **What**: Multiple stickers on one sheet

    **Cut**: Individual shapes or grid

    **Best for**: Multi-packs, organization labels

    **Common**: Address labels, product labels

    **Example**: 10 small stickers on 8.5×11" sheet
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Roll Stickers">
    **What**: Continuous roll, same design repeated

    **Application**: Dispensed one at a time

    **Best for**: Product labeling, shipping, high volume

    **MOQ**: Usually higher (500-1000+)

    **Example**: "Thank You" stickers for packaging
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Transfer Stickers (Decals)">
    **What**: Sticker with transfer tape, no background

    **Application**: Transfer design to surface, remove tape

    **Best for**: Window decals, car stickers, signage

    **Durable**: Outdoor vinyl

    **Example**: Window logo, car decal
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Common Sizes

### Individual Stickers

| Size                    | Use Case            | Typical Cost (100 qty) |
| ----------------------- | ------------------- | ---------------------- |
| **1" × 1"**             | Tiny logo, seal     | \$20-40                |
| **2" × 2"**             | Small logo, icon    | \$30-60                |
| **3" × 3"**             | Standard logo       | \$40-80                |
| **4" × 4"**             | Large logo          | \$50-100               |
| **3" × 2"**             | Rectangle, name tag | \$35-70                |
| **Bumper (3" × 11.5")** | Bumper sticker      | \$60-120               |
| **Circle 2.5"**         | Round logo          | \$35-70                |
| **Custom shape**        | Any size/shape      | Varies                 |

### Sticker Sheets

| Size           | Common Use                    |
| -------------- | ----------------------------- |
| **8.5" × 11"** | Full sheet, multiple stickers |
| **4" × 6"**    | Small sheet                   |
| **2" × 3.5"**  | Business card size sheet      |

## Design Specifications

### Standard Kiss-Cut Sticker

| Specification    | Value                           |
| ---------------- | ------------------------------- |
| **Minimum Size** | 1" × 1"                         |
| **Maximum Size** | 12" × 12" (varies by printer)   |
| **Resolution**   | 300 DPI minimum                 |
| **Color Mode**   | CMYK (or spot colors)           |
| **File Format**  | PDF, AI, or EPS                 |
| **Bleed**        | 0.0625-0.125" (1.5-3mm)         |
| **Safety Zone**  | 0.0625" (1.5mm) inside cut line |

## Shape Options

### Standard Shapes

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Circle">
    **Most popular**: Clean, classic

    **Sizes**: 1"-12" diameter

    **Design tip**: Centered composition

    **Best for**: Logos, icons, badges

    **Example**:

    ```
        ┌─────┐
       ╱       ╲
      │  LOGO   │
       ╲       ╱
        └─────┘
    ```

    **Specify**: Diameter (e.g., "3 inch circle")
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Square / Rectangle">
    **Simple**: Straightforward design

    **Sizes**: Any dimensions

    **Corners**: Rounded or sharp

    **Best for**: Text, badges, labels

    **Example**:

    ```
    ┌───────────┐
    │   TEXT    │
    │   STICKER │
    └───────────┘
    ```

    **Specify**: Width × Height
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Oval">
    **Elegant**: Softer than rectangle

    **Orientation**: Horizontal or vertical

    **Best for**: Brand names, elegant designs

    **Example**:

    ```
       ┌─────┐
      ╱       ╲
     │  BRAND  │
      ╲       ╱
       └─────┘
    ```
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Custom Die-Cut">
    **Any shape**: Follows your design

    **Examples**:

    * Logo outline
    * Character shape
    * Text cutout
    * Complex shapes

    **Cost**: Same as standard (usually)

    **Requires**: Cut line specification

    **Example**: Sticker cut to exact logo shape
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

### Creating Custom Shapes

<Steps>
  <Step title="Design Your Sticker">
    Create artwork in Figma

    **Size**: Actual sticker size (e.g., 3" × 3")

    **Include**: All visual elements
  </Step>

  <Step title="Create Cut Line">
    **Method 1: Offset Path**

    * Duplicate artwork
    * Create outline 0.125" around edges
    * This becomes cut line

    **Method 2: Custom Shape**

    * Draw path around design
    * Smooth curves
    * No sharp angles \< 90° (hard to cut)

    **Method 3: Use Shape**

    * Circle, square, etc.
    * Easier, but less custom
  </Step>

  <Step title="Mark Cut Line">
    **In Figma**:

    * Create stroke layer for cut line
    * Use distinct color (e.g., magenta)
    * Name layer "Cut Line" or "Die Line"

    **Specifications**:

    * Stroke: 1pt
    * Color: Magenta or as printer specifies

    **Note**: Some printers want separate layer
  </Step>

  <Step title="Bleed">
    **Extend design**: 0.0625-0.125" beyond cut line

    **Why**: Ensures no white edges

    **Background**: Must extend to bleed

    **Important**: Colors/images reach past cut
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Material Options

### Vinyl Stickers

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="White Vinyl">
    **Most common**: Opaque white background

    **Characteristics**:

    * Bright colors
    * Weather-resistant
    * Durable (2-4 years)

    **Best for**: General use, outdoor

    ✅ **Standard choice**

    **Finish**: Gloss, matte, or clear laminate
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Clear/Transparent Vinyl">
    **Effect**: See-through background

    **Design**: Plan for transparency

    **Best for**: Glass, windows, premium look

    **White ink**: Optional white layer under design

    **Example**: Logo with transparent areas

    **Cost**: Usually same as white
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Holographic">
    **Effect**: Rainbow shimmer

    **Design**: Looks best with simple designs

    **Popular for**: Fun, eye-catching stickers

    **Cost**: Moderate premium
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Metallic">
    **Options**: Gold, silver, copper

    **Effect**: Shiny metallic surface

    **Design**: Plan for metallic base showing through

    **Best for**: Premium, luxury

    **Cost**: Moderate premium
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

### Paper Stickers

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Matte Paper">
    **Characteristics**:

    * Writeable surface
    * Matte finish
    * Natural look

    **Best for**: Product labels, handmade goods

    **Durability**: Indoor only

    **Cost**: Lower than vinyl
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Gloss Paper">
    **Characteristics**:

    * Shiny finish
    * Vibrant colors

    **Best for**: Indoor stickers, labels

    **Durability**: Indoor only

    **Cost**: Lower than vinyl
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

### Adhesive Types

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Permanent">
    **Strength**: Strong bond

    **Removal**: Difficult, may damage surface

    **Best for**: Long-term application, products

    ✅ **Most common**
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Removable">
    **Strength**: Medium bond

    **Removal**: Clean removal

    **Best for**: Temporary, planners, walls (kids)

    **Cost**: Slight premium
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="High-Tack">
    **Strength**: Extra strong

    **Surface**: Rough or textured surfaces

    **Best for**: Outdoor, difficult surfaces

    **Cost**: Moderate premium
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Finishes & Coatings

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Gloss Laminate">
    **Appearance**: Shiny, vibrant

    **Protection**: UV, water, scratch resistant

    **Best for**: Outdoor, high-use

    **Feel**: Smooth

    ✅ **Most popular**
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Matte Laminate">
    **Appearance**: Flat, no glare

    **Protection**: UV, water, scratch resistant

    **Best for**: Sophisticated, elegant

    **Feel**: Soft touch

    **Benefit**: No fingerprints
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Crack-and-Peel">
    **Method**: Score lines for easy removal from backing

    **Best for**: Sheet stickers, multiple stickers

    **Benefit**: Easy individual removal
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="No Laminate">
    **Appearance**: Direct print

    **Protection**: Minimal

    **Cost**: Lowest

    **Use for**: Indoor, temporary
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Designing Great Stickers

### Design Best Practices

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Bold & Simple" icon="shapes">
    **Stickers are small**: Design should read clearly

    **Avoid**:

    * Tiny text (\< 8pt)
    * Fine details
    * Complex patterns

    **Use**:

    * Bold shapes
    * High contrast
    * Large text

    **Test**: View at actual size
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Contrast Matters" icon="adjust">
    **High contrast**: Better visibility

    **Examples**:

    * Dark on light
    * Light on dark
    * Bold outlines

    **Avoid**: Similar tones (hard to read)

    **Test**: Grayscale view

    **Tip**: Add stroke/outline if needed
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Account for Cut Line" icon="scissors">
    **Keep clear**: 0.0625" (1.5mm) from cut

    **Why**: Cutting tolerance

    **Important elements**: Further from edge

    **Bleed**: Extend backgrounds beyond cut

    **Example**:

    ```
    ┌─────────────┐ ← Bleed edge
    │ ┌─────────┐ │ ← Cut line
    │ │ [TEXT]  │ │ ← Safe area (important content)
    │ └─────────┘ │
    └─────────────┘
    ```
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="White Borders" icon="border-all">
    **Option**: Add white border around design

    **Benefits**:

    * Easier to see on any background
    * Cleaner look
    * Hides slight cut variation

    **Width**: 0.125-0.25" typical

    **Popular**: For logo stickers

    **Example**:

    ```
    ┌──────────────┐
    │ ┌──────────┐ │ ← White border
    │ │  DESIGN  │ │
    │ └──────────┘ │
    └──────────────┘
    ```
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Color Mode" icon="palette">
    **CMYK**: For full-color designs

    **Spot Colors**: For brand accuracy

    **Transparent areas**: Plan if using clear vinyl

    **Test**: Convert to CMYK early, check colors

    **Remember**: Screen ≠ print

    See [Color Guide](/color/overview)
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

### Text on Stickers

**Minimum sizes**:

* Readable text: 10pt+
* Fine print: 8pt minimum
* Headlines: 24pt+

**Font choices**:

* Bold fonts better than thin
* Sans-serif often clearer
* Outline helps readability

**Stroke/outline**:

* Add stroke to text for visibility
* Especially on complex backgrounds

## Step-by-Step: Round Logo Sticker

<Steps>
  <Step title="Set Up Document">
    **Frame size**: 3.25" × 3.25" (3" circle + bleed)

    Press `F`, create frame

    Name: "Sticker - 3 inch Circle"
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add Cut Line">
    **Create circle**: 3" diameter

    **Center**: In frame

    **Stroke**: 1pt, magenta (or printer's spec)

    **No fill**: Just outline

    **Lock layer**: Name "Cut Line", lock it
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add Bleed Area">
    **Create circle**: 3.125" diameter

    **Center**: Same as cut line

    **This marks**: Bleed extent

    **Use as guide**: Design extends here
  </Step>

  <Step title="Design Sticker">
    **Background**: Extend to bleed circle (3.125")

    **Logo**: Center, keep 0.0625" from cut line

    **Text** (if any): Large, bold, clear

    **Ensure**: Design extends beyond cut to bleed
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check Safety Zone">
    **Important content**: At least 0.0625" inside cut line

    **Test**: Create inner circle 2.875" diameter

    **Verify**: All critical elements inside this
  </Step>

  <Step title="Export with Printery">
    **Select frame**

    **Settings**:

    * DPI: 300 ✓
    * CMYK: Yes ✓
    * ICC Profile: ISO Coated v2 ✓
    * Bleed: 0.0625" ✓
    * Crop marks: Optional

    **Export PDF**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Submit to Printer">
    **Specifications to provide**:

    ```
    Shape: 3" circle (diameter)
    Material: White vinyl
    Finish: Gloss laminate
    Quantity: [number]
    Adhesive: Permanent
    File: [filename].pdf
    ```

    **Include**: Cut line visible or marked
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Ordering Stickers

### Quantity & Pricing

| Quantity | Unit Cost (3" circle) | Total      |
| -------- | --------------------- | ---------- |
| 50       | \$0.60-1.20           | \$30-60    |
| 100      | \$0.40-0.80           | \$40-80    |
| 250      | \$0.25-0.50           | \$65-125   |
| 500      | \$0.20-0.40           | \$100-200  |
| 1000     | \$0.15-0.30           | \$150-300  |
| 5000+    | \$0.10-0.20           | \$500-1000 |

**Factors affecting cost**:

* Size (larger = more)
* Quantity (bulk discounts)
* Material (vinyl vs paper)
* Finish (laminate adds cost)
* Shape (custom die may cost more)
* Colors (spot colors may affect price)

### Recommended Printers

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Sticker Mule">
    **Specialty**: Custom die-cut stickers

    **Quality**: Excellent

    **MOQ**: 10-50 (very low!)

    **Turnaround**: 4-14 days

    **Price**: Premium

    **Best for**: Samples, small batches, quality
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="StickerYou">
    **Specialty**: Custom shapes, low MOQ

    **Quality**: Good

    **MOQ**: 1+ (yes, 1 sticker!)

    **Options**: Many materials and sizes

    **Best for**: Personal, samples, variety
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="UPrinting">
    **Specialty**: Bulk stickers, sheets

    **Quality**: Good

    **MOQ**: 100-250

    **Price**: Economical for bulk

    **Best for**: Large quantities, budget
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Local Print Shop">
    **Specialty**: Varies

    **Quality**: Varies

    **Benefit**: Face-to-face, quick turnaround

    **Best for**: Local business, immediate needs
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

### Sample Before Bulk

<Warning>
  **Always order samples first!**

  **Why**:

  * Verify colors (screen ≠ print)
  * Check material/finish
  * Confirm size
  * Test adhesive strength
  * Catch any errors

  **Cost**: \$10-50 for sample pack

  **Saves**: Hundreds/thousands on wrong bulk order
</Warning>

## Common Uses

### Marketing & Branding

* **Logo stickers**: Brand awareness
* **Packaging stickers**: Seal boxes, add branding
* **Promotional stickers**: Giveaways, events
* **Business stickers**: With contact info
* **Thank you stickers**: Customer appreciation

### Product Labeling

* **Product labels**: Ingredients, branding
* **Jar labels**: Homemade goods, candles
* **Bottle labels**: Beverages, sauces
* **Packaging labels**: Identify products

### Personal & Fun

* **Planner stickers**: Organization, decoration
* **Laptop stickers**: Personalization
* **Water bottle stickers**: Custom designs
* **Sticker packs**: Collections, art

## Sticker Design Checklist

Before ordering:

* [ ] **Size confirmed**: Actual dimensions specified
* [ ] **Shape defined**: Circle, square, custom cut line
* [ ] **Resolution 300 DPI**: All images high quality
* [ ] **Bleed added**: 0.0625" beyond cut line
* [ ] **Safety zone respected**: Important content 0.0625" inside cut
* [ ] **Colors CMYK**: Converted and verified
* [ ] **Text readable**: Minimum 8-10pt
* [ ] **Cut line marked**: Visible or specified
* [ ] **Material chosen**: Vinyl, paper, finish
* [ ] **Adhesive type selected**: Permanent, removable, etc.
* [ ] **Quantity determined**: Based on needs and budget
* [ ] **Proofread**: Spelling, details accurate
* [ ] **Sample ordered**: Before bulk production (recommended)

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Stickers cutting too close to design" icon="scissors">
    **Problem**: Not enough bleed

    **Solution**:

    * Extend design 0.125" beyond cut line
    * Or add white border
    * Increase safety margin

    **Prevention**: Follow bleed requirements
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Colors look different than screen" icon="palette">
    **Normal**: Screen (RGB) ≠ Print (CMYK)

    **Solutions**:

    * Order sample to verify
    * Use Pantone for brand colors
    * Calibrate monitor (if possible)
    * Accept some variation

    **Remember**: Physical sample is truth
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Text too small to read" icon="font">
    **Problem**: Font size too small

    **Fix**: Increase to minimum 10pt

    **Test**: View at actual size

    **Remember**: Small stickers = larger text needed
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Cut line missing from export" icon="exclamation">
    **Problem**: Cut line not included

    **Solutions**:

    * Ensure cut line layer visible
    * Use distinct color (magenta)
    * Check printer requirements
    * Or submit separate cut file

    **Ask printer**: Format they need
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Learn More

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Color Management" icon="palette" href="/color/overview">
    Get colors right for print
  </Card>

  <Card title="DPI & Resolution" icon="image" href="/basics/dpi-resolution">
    Image quality essentials
  </Card>

  <Card title="Spot Colors" icon="droplet" href="/color/spot-colors">
    Brand color accuracy
  </Card>

  <Card title="Export Settings" icon="file-export" href="/features/export-settings">
    PDF export configuration
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

<Info>
  **Pro Tip**: Order a small sample pack first! Test colors, material, and adhesive before committing to 1000+ stickers.
</Info>