What material are custom stickers made of?
Our stickers are printed on 3 mil premium vinyl from 3M and General Formulations with a permanent acrylic adhesive, then covered with a protective UV laminate. That build is waterproof, dishwasher safe, scratch resistant and rated for 5+ years outdoors.
| Face stock | 3 mil cast / calendared vinyl |
|---|---|
| Brands | 3M, General Formulations |
| Adhesive | Permanent acrylic (removable on request) |
| Laminate | UV gloss, matte or luster, included free |
| Outdoor rating | 5+ years |
The layers, top to bottom
- Laminate. A clear UV-blocking film that takes the abrasion, water, chemicals and sunlight instead of your ink. Included on every sticker at no charge; many printers charge extra or skip it.
- Ink. Eco-solvent 11-color Epson UltraChrome, which cures into the vinyl rather than sitting on top of it.
- Vinyl face stock. 3 mil premium vinyl. Thick enough to handle without curling, thin enough to conform to curved surfaces like bottles and helmets.
- Adhesive. Permanent pressure-sensitive acrylic. Bonds fully after about 24 hours.
- Liner. Silicone-coated backing paper, split-back on request for easier peeling on large decals.
Cast vs calendared
Calendared vinyl is rolled flat and is the right choice for flat and gently curved surfaces, which covers most sticker work. Cast vinyl is poured, thinner and more conformable, and we use it for compound curves like vehicle bodywork and helmets. Both are laminated the same way.
Not paper, not "sticker paper"
Anything printed on paper stock will pulp the first time it gets wet and will fade within a season outdoors. If a vendor's price seems impossibly low, check whether you are being sold paper labels described as stickers.
Specialty stocks we also run
Clear polyester, holographic prismatic film, brushed metallic film, static cling (no adhesive), and heavy-duty industrial stocks with high-tack adhesive for textured or powder-coated equipment.