Help Center / Materials & Finishes

What are transfer stickers?

Transfer stickers, often called transfer decals, are letters or shapes cut from solid vinyl with no background. They come on a backing sheet under a layer of transfer tape, which holds the pieces in place while you apply them, then peels away so only the letters remain. Printed stickers are different: they have a full-color printed face and peel off in one piece.
Transfer decalCut vinyl, no background, applied with tape
Printed stickerFull-color print, one piece
Common usesWindows, doors, vehicles, walls

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How a transfer decal is applied

  • Clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol.
  • Peel the backing so the letters stay stuck to the transfer tape.
  • Place the tape on the surface and press firmly with a squeegee.
  • Peel the transfer tape back slowly at a low angle. The letters stay on the surface.

Which do you need?

  • Transfer decal / cut lettering: one solid color, nothing between the letters. Good for store hours, vehicle lettering and wall quotes.
  • Printed sticker: full color, gradients and photos. Good for logos, merch and products.

We make both: custom cut vinyl lettering, quoted per job, and full-color printed die-cut stickers.

Related questions

Are transfer stickers the same as rub-on transfers?
No. Rub-on transfers are craft products rubbed onto paper or wood. Vinyl transfer decals are applied with transfer tape and hold up outdoors.

Last updated 2026-10-13. Reviewed by the Stickerine production team, Name Badges, LLC, Greenville, SC.

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