What Is Adhesive Paper? Understanding Its Uses and Benefits

When ordering stickers or labels, it is essential to understand "Adhesive Paper" and select the appropriate material and adhesive for your needs. We hope this information is helpful for those considering ordering stickers and labels.

Adhesive Paper

Adhesive Paper refers to materials with adhesive applied to the back side, used for stickers, labels, and decals. Adhesive Paper consists of three layers: "surface material," "adhesive," and "release liner."

・Surface Material (the part where printing is applied)
・Adhesive (the glue part)
・Release Liner (the backing paper that protects the adhesive and is discarded after use)

Paper and Film Options

The surface material of adhesive paper is primarily divided into "paper materials" and "film materials." It is important to choose between these two types depending on the purpose and situation, so it is useful to remember this distinction.

・Paper Material (Lacks durability and water resistance but popular for its natural paper texture)
・Film Material (Excellent durability and water resistance; some special materials unique to films)

Additionally, adhesive paper is selected based on the product or design.

(Example) Paper: For Japanese sweets, use “Japanese paper / washi” to enhance the natural paper texture with hot stamping.
(Example) Film: For use outdoors for over five years, choose high-durability PET.

Therefore, selecting the appropriate adhesive paper for your purpose and environment is essential.

Pros and Cons of Paper and Film

Understanding the suitability of paper and film materials is also important. Both durability and compatibility with design and processing should be considered. We hope this information is helpful.

・Paper Material

Pros: Offers a variety of textures, which can be used as part of the design. Compatible with foil stamping and embossing, and generally less expensive than film.

Cons: Not suitable for outdoor or wet environments, can tear and not peel off cleanly.

・Film Material

Pros: Durable, suitable for both outdoor and wet environments, making it ideal for industrial stickers and decals.

Cons: Lacks the natural texture of paper, can be less compatible with embossing, and generally more costly than paper.

Adhesive Strength Options

The adhesive strength can be selected based on the intended use. Generally, "standard adhesive" or "strong adhesive" is used. Recently, there is a trend towards considering removability, with "weak adhesive" and "strong re-removable" adhesives becoming popular.

Adhesive types for tack paper include the following:

・Standard Adhesive (common adhesive)
・Strong Adhesive (stronger than standard adhesive)
・Extra Strong Adhesive (stronger than strong adhesive)
・For Rough Surfaces (can be applied to concrete)
・Weak Adhesive (low adhesion, easy to remove)
・Low Adhesive (like sticky notes)
・Strong Re-removable (sticks well and can be cleanly removed)
・Refrigerator Adhesive (for use in refrigerators)
・Freezer Adhesive (adheres even in subzero temperatures)
・Ham Adhesive (can be applied to uneven surfaces in refrigerators)
・Tire Adhesive (for tires with low adhesion)

Thus, the adhesive type for adhesive paper can be chosen based on the usage environment. If none of the standard options meet your needs, custom adhesives can also be manufactured.

For detailed information about adhesives, please refer to A Comprehensive Guide to Adhesive Types for Your Business.

Selection of Backing Paper (Separators)

A separator (release paper) is the paper that protects the adhesive. It is the part that is removed and disposed of during use.

There are two types of separators: "Craft Separator" and "Glassine Separator." They should be used according to their respective purposes as described below.

Craft Separator (Thick)

The Craft Separator refers to a thick release paper, suitable for hand-applied labels and stickers.
It is appropriate for sheet finishes and die-cut finishes.

Glassine Separator (Thin)

The Glassine Separator refers to a thin release paper. Due to its thinness, it is ideal for label applicators (automatic labelers). Remember to have it finished in rolls. By the way, if you are producing labels in bulk, we recommend using a labeler as it is much more efficient than applying labels one by one manually.

Free Samples of Adhesive Paper Available

Samples can be obtained free of charge by contacting a sticker printing company. By sharing your intended use, they can provide the appropriate adhesive paper for your needs.

We also offer this service with same-day shipping available. Feel free to reach out to us. If you have specific manufacturer preferences, please let us know. Our adhesive paper suppliers are listed below.

Tack Paper Manufacturers

Lintec Corporation (Industry Leader)
Maruu Adhesive Corporation
Shintack Chemical Co., Ltd.

Sample Request

Sticker and label printing companies need to understand your "intended use" to recommend the most suitable adhesive paper and adhesive type. Factors such as texture, durability, cost, and quality are crucial, and your preferences will guide their recommendations. Don’t hesitate to share your detailed requirements.

Proposing the right adhesive paper is part of what a sticker printing company does.

We also handle SDS and RoHS compliance checks. Printing companies are aware of strict regulations regarding hazardous substances. All our adhesive paper manufacturers are thoroughly vetted, and we can make arrangements quickly. Please feel free to use our services.

Summary of Adhesive Paper

・Adhesive paper has a three-layer structure
・Available in paper and film materials
・Select adhesive based on intended use
・Choose the release liner type
・Free samples can be arranged

This concludes the explanation of adhesive paper. We hope this helps you understand the key points when ordering labels, stickers, or decals. Start by arranging a free sample to see what best suits your needs.

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