What’s the difference?
Vinyl decals and stickers are two popular ways to personalize and decorate various surfaces. The terms “vinyl decal” and “sticker” are used interchangeably, but there are some very important differences between the two that make them suitable for distinct purposes. We’ll explore these differences and help you understand when to use vinyl decals and when to opt for stickers.
Production method:
Vinyl decals are made by cutting a design out of a solid sheet of vinyl. This can be done using a die-cutter or a plotter. Stickers, on the other hand, are made by printing a design with ink onto a sheet of vinyl with an adhesive backing.
Application:
Vinyl decals are applied using a transfer tape. This is a clear film that is used to hold the decal in place while it is being applied. Vinyl decals are best on smooth, hard surfaces such as car windows. The transfer tape is then removed once the decal is in place.
Stickers, on the other hand, are applied directly to the surface via “peel and stick”. Because their adhesive is usually weaker and they don’t require transfer tape to apply them, they work on many more surfaces so as paper or journals.
Durability:
Vinyl decals are generally more durable than stickers. This is because they are made from a thicker material and ink is not used. Vinyl decals can withstand outdoor conditions and are less likely to fade or peel. Stickers, on the other hand, are made for temporary or indoor conditions. They are more likely to fade or peel unless a protective layer is applied increasing cost.
Design:
Vinyl decals are typically limited to single-color designs. This is because they are cut out of a solid sheet of vinyl. But vinyl comes in various color options such as holographic, metallics and even glow-in-the-dark that stickers are not able to achieve. Stickers, on the other hand, can be printed with full-color designs in anything a printer can produce.
Pros and Cons list
Vinyl Decals
Pros
- Can be water or weatherproof, made for car windows
- Lasting years in outdoor conditions if care is taken when applying
- Can be made with empty space between pieces, showing the color or surface of the background
- Can be made in sizes up to 23″ x 11.5″
Cons
- Made by hand so cost of the human labor is a factor in their price and how quickly they can be produced
- While multi-color decals can be made, that requires separate vinyl and cutting for each color used and then all the colors must be assembled by hand, greatly increasing the cost
- Have issues with smaller sizes. Decal sizes are limited by their smallest piece or thinnest lines which can break with any wear and tear or during application
- Requires transfer tape and are applied all at once. Removing decals requires taking up any small pieces that are not attached
Stickers
Pros
- Can be multi-color, anything a printer can print
- Can be made in small sizes or with small details
- Made from cheaper materials and can be produced much faster so usually orders of magnitude cheaper than vinyl decals
- Due to their decreased price, they work great for temporary use such as labels
Cons
- Usually made small, less than 6.75″ x 9.25″ inches while vinyl decals can be made up to 23″ x 11.5″ inches.
- Not made for outdoor use. The material, either vinyl or paper, are not specifically made for outdoor use. And inks can also fade, even individual colors if not UV protected
- Some are made from paper, greatly reducing their durability
- Usually a solid background so don’t show any surface behind them
Which one is right for you?
The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs. If you are looking for a durable, long-lasting adhesive, on a smooth, hard surface, then a vinyl decal is a good option. If you are looking for a sticker with a full-color design, use on a surface that can rip easily or for temporary use, then a sticker is a better choice.
Common use cases
Vinyl decals
Vehicle Graphics: Vinyl decals are an excellent choice for decorating cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. They can withstand outdoor conditions, making them ideal for showcasing logos, graphics, or custom designs on your vehicle’s body or windows. They are perfect for numbering commercial vehicles per DOT requirements.
Business Signage: Vinyl decals are often used for storefront signage and window displays. They offer a professional look and are durable enough to endure exposure to the elements.
Laptop and Electronics Personalization: If you want to personalize your laptop, smartphone, or other electronic devices, vinyl decals provide a sleek and long-lasting option to display your favorite designs or branding. I recommend putting them in a place that does not get too much “rubbing” like the back of a phone without a case over it.
Home Decor: Vinyl decals can be used to create wall art, quote decals, or decorative accents in your home. They adhere well to mirrors, glass, and signs enhancing your interior design. (Do not use permanent vinyl directly on walls as it will likely ruin the paint when removed)
Product Labeling: Many products, especially those exposed to moisture or handling, benefit from vinyl decals for labeling. They remain intact and legible even under harsh conditions.
Stickers
Promotional Materials: Stickers are often used for promotional purposes, such as event marketing, product launches, or political campaigns. Their lower cost and ease of distribution make them an ideal choice for short-term promotions.
Packaging and Labels: Stickers are commonly used on product packaging for branding and providing essential information. They are easy to apply and perfect to add a personal touch when shipping.
Educational and Reward Stickers: Teachers often use stickers as rewards for students, and parents use them for chore charts and motivational purposes. Stickers are a fun and interactive way to engage with children.
Personal Events: For special events like weddings, birthdays, or baby showers, stickers can be used on invitations, party favors, and decor. They offer a quick and cost-effective way to add a personal touch to your celebrations.
In summary, the choice between vinyl decals and stickers depends on the intended use, the desired level of durability, and the need for customization. Consider these factors when deciding which adhesive decoration best suits your specific project or application.
