Glossy stickers are shiny and vibrant, great for bold designs, while matte stickers are non-reflective and ideal for a softer look; pairs well with solid colors and small text. While it may sound like a simple personal-preference, one crucial decision you’ll face is how to choose between glossy and matte stickers. Each type has its unique attributes, and understanding the difference can help you make the best choice for your needs. When it comes to personal, promotional, or creative uses you will want to dive into the details to help you make an informed choice.
Glossy Stickers: Shiny and Vibrant
HOW LIGHT INTERACTS WITH GLOSSY STICKERS
One of the biggest differences between the two sticker finishes is how they handle glare. Glossy stickers have a shiny, reflective finish that enhances colors and creates a vibrant look, while matte stickers reduce glare and diffuse light for a softer appearance. If you want your sticker to stand out with bold hues and high contrast, a glossy finish is the way to go. Glossy is the preferred finish for outdoor applications as it makes the colors pop and gives a dramatic effect in any element. When taking photos, glossy stickers may need more attentiveness to avoid giving off a harsh glare or being washed-out.
COLOR
The brightness of the glossy stickers are better for showing off contrasts between colors on the sticker. Designs with lots of detail and many colors are usually preferred with a glossy laminate. The shine can also give your logo a sleek, professional look.
TOUCH & FEEL OF GLOSSY STICKERS
Glossy stickers have a smooth, slick texture. While this can enhance the visual appeal, the surface may also show fingerprints and smudges a little more.
WHAT ARE IDEAL USES OF GLOSSY STICKERS?
Vibrant and busy Artwork & logos, promotional materials, event giveaways, outdoor stickers, car and bumper stickers.
Matte Stickers: Subtle and Sophisticated
HOW LIGHT INTERACTS WITH MATTE STICKERS
Matte stickers have a non-reflective finish that provides a more subtle and sophisticated appearance. The absence of shine results in a softer appearance with muted colors and reduced glare. Matte will remain unaffected under various light conditions. With that being said, matte does very well with product photography.
COLOR
If your goal is to achieve a classic or sophisticated style, matte stickers provide a refined aesthetic. The non-glare finish is also advantageous for designs with intricate details or fine lines that might be obscured by a glossy sheen. Matte laminate will offer a slightly more muted and subtle look for the sticker. Simpler logos and designs with solid colors, as well as designs with a “vintage” or “traditional” look may be inclined to go with a matte finish. Matte can also enhance any small text that is on the sticker, and some believe that matte finishes allow for easier reading.
TOUCH & FEEL OF MATTE STICKERS
Matte stickers have a textured, velvety surface that many people find appealing. This tactile quality can add a unique dimension to your design, offering a more tactile and less slippery feel than glossy stickers.
WHAT ARE IDEAL USES OF MATTE STICKERS?
Artwork with solid colors, simple designs with small text, “vintage designs”, product labels and packaging.
What Is The Best Finish For Stickers?
Glossy stickers give a sleek and bold appearance that stands-out and reflects light, while matte stickers offer a sophisticated look and are easy-to-read. No matter what finish you decide on, know that both glossy and matte stickers have the same durability. They have the same thickness, 100% waterproof, UV resistant, scratch resistant, dishwasher safe, and microwave safe! The information above gives an insight on how the finishes work with different designs and settings, however, the choice between glossy and matte is totally up to you as you cannot go wrong with either!