sticker

A sticker is a piece of material with an adhesive backing and a printed design or message intended to be affixed to surfaces. The facing side may be protected with a laminate to resist moisture or UV exposure. Stickers are produced from various base materials and adhesives and are designed for a range of durability. The term is often used interchangeably with decals, but stickers generally rely on a pressure-sensitive adhesive and a removable liner that is peeled away before application.

Common base materials include paper, vinyl, and polyester. Finishes range from matte to gloss, and some stickers are clear or translucent. Adhesives are typically pressure-sensitive, and the liner protects the adhesive until use. Some formulations are designed to be permanent, others removable with minimal residue.

Manufacture involves design, printing (digital or offset), and cutting. Contour cutting creates a shape that follows the design’s outline, while kiss-cutting leaves the backing intact. Laminating or coating adds durability, and a release liner is used for packaging and handling.

Stickers are used for branding and product labeling, promotional campaigns, vehicle and window applications, electronics labeling, and personal expression in crafts or scrapbooks. They are common on packaging, marketing inserts, and event souvenirs.

Removal may be straightforward by peeling, sometimes aided by heat. Adhesives can leave residue or damage delicate surfaces, and some vinyl stickers are not easily recyclable. Environmentally conscious options include paper-based or water-based adhesives, and designs that allow for reuse or recycling.