We all know what stickers are and we all know what decals are… or do we? Did you know that there is actually a difference between a sticker and a decal?
You may think that these terms are interchangeable, since most people actually do use them interchangeably, but the fact is there are many differences between a sticker and a decal that you may not be aware of. Their use cases are different, their durability and material are different, and even the way they are made can be different.
While most people may never realize that a sticker and a decal are different, you may run into a point in your life where you need to promote something in a visual way, and knowing the difference between these two types of adhesive based promotions could mean the difference between a successful promotion and a failure.
What is a Sticker?
A sticker is a type of adhesive label typically made from paper or vinyl. They can be cut into a variety of different shapes and sizes depending on their use. Stickers are typically used for promoting brands and services, labeling products, decorating other materials, and other applications.
Stickers are a very affordable way to promote anything you can think of. They can be stuck almost anywhere and are eye catching to the passerby. They are easy to print and can be mass produced for relatively cheap through many online retailers, including Sport Decals.
In addition to that, there are may different printing techniques that you can use when printing stickers. Digital prints, offset printing, and even screen printing can be used to permanently adhere your design to a sticker.
What is a Decal?
A decal is a different type of adhesive graphic that are typically made to withstand the elements better than a sticker would. With stickers, when placed outside where they are exposed to rain, snow, and other types of weather, they can often deteriorate, fade, and eventually lose their adhesive properties and fall off. With decals, they are designed to withstand these types of weather conditions, so they are can be better suited for use cases where the elements may be a problem.
Decals are often made from a vinyl material and digitally printed rather than screen printed or offset printed. This helps maintain a higher range of color and greater precision that you sometimes can’t get with those other types of printing.
Because of the way decals are manufactured, printed, and the material used to create them, they are better suited for things that are exposed to the elements and need to last a longer time. Decals are perfect for vehicles (cars, boats, planes) and windows, as well as things like laptops, water bottles, and other small items that might require something with a little more durability.
Sticker vs. Decal
The main difference between a sticker and a decal is durability. Decals tend to stand up to more abuse than a sticker would and can be used outdoors without worry about losing its adhesive or getting ruined by the sun. Stickers are used more on indoor items, promotions, and as a decoration. If you were running a fundraiser or a promotion, you would probably opt to give out stickers as opposed to decals, just because stickers are going to be cheaper to produce and don’t need to last for a long period of time.
If you wanted to advertise your business on your car or promote your team on your football helmet or business window, then a decal would be the best option as they are more durable and can withstand the elements better.
In most cases people don’t know the difference between a sticker and a decal, and most don’t really care, but it’s important to know what you’re going to be using these stickers or decals for so you can best determine which option works for your application.
Make sure you get the best quality decals you can, for any application, by contacting us at Sport Decals. We can provide window decals, car decals, helmet decals, and more. Our goal is to provide the best quality printing at great rates. Contact us today to discuss how we can help with your next project!