When ordering custom stickers or decals, one detail that often comes up is kiss-cut vs. thru-cut. While they may sound similar, they serve different purposes depending on how you plan to use them.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose the right option.
What is Kiss-Cut?
A kiss-cut means the blade cuts through the sticker material, but not the backing paper. The result is a sticker that stays attached to a larger sheet.
This leaves a border around the design, making it easier to peel and handle.
Kiss-cut is a good option for:
- Sticker sheets
- Designs with detailed edges
- Projects where easier peeling matters
- Multiple stickers on one sheet
What is Thru-Cut?
A thru-cut (sometimes called a die-cut) goes all the way through both the sticker and the backing material. Each sticker is cut into its final shape and ready to use individually.
There’s no extra backing around the design—just the sticker itself.
Thru-cut is a good option for:
- Individual sticker handouts
- Giveaways or packaging inserts
- Clean, custom-shaped stickers
- Branding or promotional use
Key Differences
The main difference comes down to how the sticker is cut and how it’s used:
- Backing: Kiss-cut keeps the backing intact, while thru-cut removes it
- Presentation: Kiss-cut stickers are typically on sheets, while thru-cut stickers are individual
- Function: Kiss-cut focuses on ease of use and organization, while thru-cut is more about presentation and distribution
How to Choose
The right option depends on your project.
If you need something easy to peel or want multiple designs grouped together, kiss-cut is usually the better choice.
If you’re handing out stickers, including them in packaging, or want a clean, finished look, thru-cut tends to work better.
Not Sure Which One You Need?
If you’re unsure which option makes the most sense for your project, we’re happy to help. We can take a look at your design and recommend the best approach based on how you plan to use it—plus make sure everything is set up correctly for print.
