Stickers vs. Labels – What's the Difference?
The two terms, "sticker" and "label," are a bit paradoxical. They're so similar yet they have distinct differences. Can they be used interchangeably? While there's no right or wrong answer, it doesn't hurt to dispel any confusion. Let's explore accepted definitions, similarities and differences, and examples to help you differentiate each word and product. Then, keep reading for instructions on how to make your own.
Definitions
Stickers
| Cambridge Dictionary | A small piece of paper with a picture or writing on one side and a sticky substance on the other |
| Dictionary.com | A person or thing that sticks, an adhesive label |
| Merriam-Webster | One that adheres or causes adhesion, a slip of paper with adhesive back that can be fastened to a surface |
| Oxford Dictionary | An adhesive label or notice, generally printed or illustrated |
Labels
| Cambridge Dictionary | A piece of paper or other material that gives information about the object it is attached to |
| Dictionary.com | A slip of paper, cloth, or other material, marked or inscribed, for attachment to something to indicate its manufacturer, nature, ownership, destination, etc. |
| Merriam-Webster | A slip (as of paper or cloth) inscribed and affixed to something for identification or description, written or printed matter accompanying an article to furnish identification or other information |
| Oxford Dictionary | A small piece of paper, fabric, plastic, or similar material attached to an object and giving information about it |
Similarities
- They can both be printed on the same materials
- You can create any shape
- They can be produced in any size
- You can order as many or as few as you want
- They're both adhesive
Differences
| Stickers | Labels |
|---|---|
| Created without a specific destination in mind | Created for a specific product, container, or use |
| Size and shape are design elements | Sized to fit a specific space |
| More design focused | More information-based |
| Used for decorative or promotional purposes | Used for business applications |
| Individually cut | A small piece of paper, fabric, plastic, or similar material attached to an object and giving information about it |
| Individually cut | Comes on a full sheet |
| Printed on weatherproof materials | Available as paper with different coatings |
| Adheres to smooth surfaces | Adheres to cardboard, plastic, and many other surfaces |
| Non-permanent | Options for permanent or removable |
How to Make Your Own
Stickers
This process works best with electronic cutting machines like the Silhouette Cameo, Cricut Explore, and Brother Scan N Cut.
- Pick your sticker paper sheet size. If you're doing this by hand, you may want to opt for a liner with back slits. Browse all full sheet options.
- Select a sticker paper material.
- Choose your desired quantity.
- Complete your order.
- Start designing in your cutting machine's design software.
- Print your design. Follow these printing tips for best results.
- Load your printed sheet into your machine and get to cutting.
- Hand out as you see fit.
Labels
- Pick your desired label shape and size.
- Select a label material.
- Choose your desired quantity.
- Complete your order.
- Use our free blank or pre-designed templates in Maestro Label Designer to create your design.
- Print your design. Read through our printing tips before getting started.
- Peel and apply when you're ready.
While incredibly similar, labels and stickers do have their differences. Whichever you're looking to create, we're happy to help. Reach out to our customer service team if you have any questions throughout the process or visit our article centre for more expert tips.
