Defining sticker cut types…

Ever wonder what makes one sticker easier to peel or why some have such perfectly sculpted edges? Whether you’re creating custom merch, packaging your products, or just curious about the print process, understanding sticker cuts can help you choose the right style for your needs. In this quick guide, we’ll break down the two most common sticker cut types—easy peel and contour cut—and show you exactly how they differ, both in form and function. Let’s dive into the details and find the perfect fit for your next sticker project!

Easy Peel Cuts…

In the die-cut sticker industry, “easy peel” (typically known as ‘kiss-cutting’) refers to a cutting method where only the top layer of the sticker material (typically the vinyl or paper sticker face) is cut, while the backing paper remains intact. This allows the sticker to be peeled away easily from the surrounding material without removing the entire backing.

Easy peel (kiss cut) – A type of precision cut in which the sticker design is cut through the adhesive layer and face material, but not through the backing liner, enabling effortless removal of the sticker while keeping the full backing sheet intact.

Key Characteristics:

  • User-friendly: Stickers are easier to peel off, especially in intricate designs.
  • Presentation: Often used to include multiple designs on one sheet or to maintain a clean, professional look.
  • Flexibility: Allows additional branding or information to be printed on the surrounding backing.

This method is ideal for sticker sheets, promotional handouts, and packaging labels where ease of peeling and application is important.

Contour Cuts…

A contour cut is a cutting method where both the sticker material and its backing paper are cut all the way through, following the precise shape or outline of the design. This results in an individual sticker that is trimmed exactly to its edges or silhouette, with no extra backing around it.

Contour cut – A full cut that follows the exact outline of a sticker design, slicing through both the top layer and the backing paper to create a standalone sticker in the shape of the artwork.

Key Characteristics:

  • Custom shape: Matches the outer edges of the design closely.
  • High impact: Offers a bold, professional presentation, ideal for branding and giveaways.
  • Individually cut: Each sticker is separated from the sheet or roll.

Contour cutting is commonly used for logos, character art, or decorative designs where the unique shape is part of the visual appeal.

Here at SquareBoxPrint Studios, we’re able to provide both contour and kiss cuts for your designs.

The two techniques can also be merged together to create a professional custom cut around your designs, with an ease peel feature for your customers to enjoy.