Die-Cut vs Kiss-Cut Stickers: Which Should You Order?

2026-08-13

The practical difference between die-cut and kiss-cut stickers, how each affects your cut line file, and when to choose one over the other.

Die-cut

A die-cut sticker is cut through both the vinyl and the backing paper, so the sticker takes the exact shape of your design. It looks premium and is the standard for single stickers sold in packs.

File requirement: one closed contour that follows the artwork with a small uniform offset, usually 2 mm.

Kiss-cut

A kiss-cut sticker is cut only through the vinyl; the backing sheet stays rectangular (or any larger shape). It is easier to peel, easier to mail flat, and gives you room for branding around the sticker.

File requirement: two paths — the sticker contour plus an outer sheet shape. Generate the contour first, then place it inside your rectangle in the layout.

How to decide

• Selling individual stickers with maximum shelf appeal: die-cut.
• Handing out stickers at events or shipping in envelopes: kiss-cut.
• Very thin or spiky artwork (lettering, flames, antlers): kiss-cut, or increase the offset so the die-cut shape survives handling.
• Sticker sheets with several designs: kiss-cut, with an individual contour per element.

Common mistakes

• Sending the cut line in black — printers may interpret it as artwork. Use magenta.
• Filled cut paths instead of stroke-only paths.
• A contour that touches the artwork, leaving no white border at all.