What are Die Cut Stickers?
Die cut stickers are cut to match the exact shape of your design. Instead of a standard circle or rectangle, the outline of your artwork becomes the final sticker.
They’re produced as individual pieces rather than sheets, which makes them feel more like standalone items than labels.
Is this the right choice for you?
This works well if you’re:
- Handing out stickers at events or including them in orders
- Creating branded merchandise
- Working with logos or illustrations where the shape matters
Compared to vinyl stickers on sheets, these are more about presentation than bulk use. Compared to clear stickers, they stand out more rather than blending into the surface.
When to consider something else
You might want a different option if:
- You need stickers on sheets or rolls for fast application
- You want a transparent, “no-label” look (clear stickers are better for that)
- You’re prioritizing multiple designs in one order (vinyl stickers support that more easily)
At a glance
- Format: Individual stickers (not on sheets or rolls)
- Shape: Custom-cut to match your design
- Material options: Matte Paper, Coated Paper, Clear, Gold Metallic, Silver Metallic
- Resolution: 300 DPI recommended for clean edges
Sizes and shape behavior
Die cut stickers are available in standard size areas:
|
2"x2" |
3"x3" |
|
4"x4" |
5"x5" |
Your design is scaled to fit within the selected size.
A small border (around 2mm) is added between your design and the cut line, and its color depends on the material you choose.
How they compare
- Compared to vinyl stickers, these are less about durability and more about shape and individuality
- Compared to paper stickers on sheets, these are more suited to handouts or retail use
- Compared to metallic or clear stickers, the visual effect depends on the material you choose rather than the format itself
Think of “die cut” as a format choice, not a material. The finish and durability come from the material you select.
Customization: what to expect
The key difference here is how the shape is created:
- Automatic Tracing: Simply upload your design, and our tool automatically creates a custom cut line for you to approve.
- Background Matters: Upload your custom shape on a white or transparent background. If your artwork has a white background, the background of the sticker will print white.
| Example 1 is how our tool will interpret a design with a non-white, non-transparent background: | Example 2 is how our tool will interpret a design with a white or transparent background: | |
- The Tracing Tool: If you use a non-white or non-transparent background, the tool will treat that background as part of the design and place the cut line around it.
- Metallic & Clear Options: We recommend a transparent background for these materials. Any transparent areas in your design will expose the sticker material underneath.
- Can I make this feel like me or my brand? Absolutely. By choosing between a sleek metallic finish for a luxury feel or a classic matte paper for a "hand-crafted" look, you can align the sticker's physical feel with your brand's voice. Because the shape is entirely up to you, your sticker won't look like a template—it will look like your brand.
Application and handling
- These don’t have an easy-peel backing, so you’ll peel from the edge
- The backing stays as one piece, matching the sticker shape
- They’re designed to feel like a single, finished item rather than a label
Sustainability
We offer options for brands prioritizing environmental impact:
- Recyclability: Both the Matte Paper and Coated Paper versions are recyclable.
- FSC®: Matte Paper Stickers are FSC® Certified. You can learn more at moo.com/about/fsc.
Common questions
Can I create any shape I want?
You can create most shapes, but they need to be a single connected piece.
What is the difference between "die cut" and "variable cut"?
"Die cut" traditionally refers to using a physical metal die like a cookie cutter. "Variable cut" refers to a digital, less manual version of this process. We use the term "Die Cut Singles," but our process uses digital variable cutting.
What is the difference between "die cut" and "kiss cut"?
With die cut stickers, the backing is cut through in the same shape as the design. With kiss cut, the design is cut out but remains on a larger square backing.
Can I order a custom sticker size?
We don't currently offer custom sizing. Your design will be scaled to fit within the standard 2"x2", 3"x3", 4"x4", or 5"x5" areas.
What if I don't like my cut line?
First, ensure you are using the recommended file types and specs. Review your design to remove shapes that might be interfering with the line, and try re-uploading. If you are still having trouble, contact our Support Team.