There are numerous methods, types, and paper materials for stickers printing . Different methods, designs, and paper materials produce different effects and functions. So, what stickers can be used? The most commonly used are glossy stickers and printed stickers. More specialized stickers include transparent stickers, kraft stickers, anti-counterfeit fragile stickers, and shiny silver dragon stickers. Below, we’ll explain the characteristics of each sticker type and their common applications.

The Difference Between Offset and Digital Printing

When choosing printing, we often encounter offset and digital printing. What exactly are offset and digital printing? Since offset and digital printing differ in their processes, layout, and color, how should we choose? Offset printing uses a roller to transfer information, text, and images from a printing plate to paper. This process involves plate making, typesetting, and layout. Offset printing is suitable for high-volume printing, including single-format, color, and translucent effects. It offers high efficiency, high quality, and low cost. Digital printing is another printing method that has achieved remarkable results in both speed and quality. Digital printing eliminates the need for platemaking, variable printing, or on-demand printing. Without compromising print quality, digital printing is faster and more flexible, even allowing for printing from one sheet to the next. The printed content can also be varied from sheet to sheet, making it more convenient, faster, and more flexible than traditional printing. Stickers are also categorized into offset printing and digital printing.

Offset-printed stickers

Offset-printed color stickers are generally divided into glossy stickers and printed stickers. Sticker designs can include color or large-scale images. Glossy and printed stickers are the most common and affordable materials on the market, offering excellent printing results. Applying glossy or matte lamination to the sticker surface can provide a basic waterproof effect, but excessive water can seep through the sides and easily tear. These stickers are commonly used for printing product labels, name tags, and instructions on products, events, and souvenirs.

Recommended Applications for Printed Offset Stickers

1. Products: Use round and square stickers and print your company logo on them to establish your brand image.

2. Events: Use glossy round and rectangular stickers for durability and easy application.

3. Souvenirs: Use irregular or die-cut stickers to highlight your brand image and style.

Digitally Printed Stickers

Digitally printed stickers are similar to offset color stickers. The printing paper comes in glossy or printed versions, but print runs are extremely low, even starting at a single sheet. Digital stickers can be combined with common geometric shapes. Homemade digital stickers are perfect for giving to friends or for small company events. They’re low-cost and offer creative expression to suit different needs.

Label Stickers

What are label stickers? Do they simply print barcodes? Label stickers certainly aren’t just for barcodes. Label stickers come in a variety of paper types, including transparent stickers, kraft paper, and anti-counterfeit, fragile stickers. Label stickers are widely used and can be applied to products made of various materials, including glass, metal, and plastic. These include various product and packaging stickers, such as food and beverage stickers, bottle stickers, warning stickers, food labels, product labels, event labels, and barcodes. First, you need to choose the right sticker based on your needs to maximize the properties of the sticker material and create a perfect sticker. Below, I’ll explain the characteristics of each sticker type and recommended usage methods.

Choosing Label Sticker Paper and Applications

1. Transparent Sticker: Made from plastic, it’s completely transparent and water-resistant. It’s abrasion-resistant, scratch-resistant, and has minimal water resistance, and it won’t cover the product’s base color. It’s recommended for company logos, beverage bottle stickers, and other applications. High-quality, gold-stamped, silver-plated transparent stickers are suitable for weddings.

2. Kraft Paper Sticker: Its darker, rougher texture creates a soft, natural look. This sticker creates a nostalgic and retro feel. The surface of the kraft paper sticker is writable, making it recommended for use on natural or eco-friendly product labels or packaging.

3. Anti-counterfeit Fragile Sticker: This sticker, also known as eggshell sticker, will break when peeled. It’s recommended for use on mobile phone or electronic product packaging to prevent tampering or as a warranty.

4. Glossy White PE Sticker: This sticker has a smooth and delicate surface and is generally waterproof. Compared to glossy and written stickers, glossy white PE sticker is more durable. It’s recommended for product ingredient labels, bottle labels, and shower products.

5. Bright Silver Dragon Sticker: This sticker is bright silver, tear-resistant, and waterproof. Due to its silvery hue, lighter colors are not recommended. This sticker is commonly used on electronic products or labels.

6. Glassine Copperplate Sticker: This sticker is more commonly found in the market, boasts a richer color, and is inexpensive. This sticker is commonly used for signage, company addresses, and name stickers.

7. Brushed Gold/Silver Stickers: These stickers have a silky, striped surface and are commonly used on electronic products.

Are printed stickers waterproof?

Many people wonder if printed stickers are waterproof. Whether a sticker is waterproof depends on the material it’s made of. If the base material isn’t waterproof, even with a UV or adhesive film applied, it only provides basic waterproofing and doesn’t qualify as waterproof. Stickers printed with water-soluble inks also aren’t waterproof.

Stickers represent your company and products. Choosing the right color can significantly enhance customer experience, increase repeat purchases, and enhance the image of your company’s other products. If you’re printing a small number of stickers for an event or personal use, consider digital stickers, which save waste and allow you to print multiple designs.