FAQ: Decals vs. Stickers
What is the difference between stickers and decals?
What is a sticker?
A sticker is a printed design on a backing material with adhesive on one side. Stickers typically have a border around the design and can be made from various materials such as paper or vinyl. They are excellent for quick use and are often used for branding, promotional purposes, or decoration.
What is a decal?
A decal is a design cut out without a background or border. Only the design itself adheres to the surface, creating a seamless, professional look. Decals are typically made of vinyl and are durable, making them ideal for outdoor use, vehicles, windows, and walls.
Key differences
- Appearance: Stickers have a visible border or backing, while decals appear as if the design is painted directly onto the surface.
- Durability: Decals are generally more weather-resistant and durable than stickers.
- Application: Stickers are quicker and easier to apply, while decals may require more careful application for optimal results.
- Removal: Stickers often leave less residue upon removal than some decals. Additionally, with decal lettering, all individual letters and elements must be removed separately, which is more time-consuming.
Areas of application
Stickers are perfect for laptops, planners, and promotional items. Decals are ideal for car windows, storefronts, signs, and permanent applications.
Which option should I choose?
Choose stickers if you want quick and easy application with a playful, casual look or if you only plan to use them temporarily.
Choose decals if you need a professional, seamless appearance that will last outdoors or on vehicles, or if you want the design to look as if it's part of the surface.
Do you have any further questions?
Feel free to contact us if you need help deciding which product is right for your project!
Preliminary information on our design costs:
Prices for design services:
- Design work for RC models – €15/hour
- Design work for real cars, storefronts, signs, etc. – €40/hour
- Setup service and troubleshooting for Mimaki plotters – €50/hour
- Travel costs to the site – €50/hour
Vinyl Printing
- RC decal sheets (2–3 A4 sheets) – €50/set (minimum 3 sets for special requests)
- Decals for real cars – €50/m² (printing/laminating/cutting)
- Printed vinyl stickers – €50/m² (unlaminated, cut) 20% discount on orders over 6 m²
- Printed vinyl stickers – €70/m² (laminated and cut) 20% discount on orders over 6 m²
Plotting
- General stickers – Oracal – 751C €55/m² (cut and with transfer film)
- General stickers – Oracal – 951C €65/m² (cut and with transfer film)
- Vehicle lettering – Oracal 970RA Premium – €40/m² (cut without transfer film)
- Vehicle lettering – Oracal 970RA – MT90 Premium – €65/m² (cut with transfer film)