Top 10 Recommended Sticker Papers: Selection Guide and Material Characteristics

There are various types of sticker papers, each with its own characteristics. Therefore, choosing the appropriate paper for the intended use is essential.

This article introduces recommended sticker papers, their features, and how to choose them. If you are considering producing stickers, please use this as a reference.

As a sticker printing company that handles a wide range of papers, we create custom-made stickers to suit various needs. If you are having trouble selecting the right sticker paper, please feel free to contact us using the link below.

Sticker Papers Come in Two Types: "Paper Material" and "Film Material"

Sticker papers are broadly divided into two types: "paper material" and "film material".

First, let’s take a closer look at the differences between them.

Type 1: Paper Material

Paper material is lower in cost than film material and is suitable for indoor use.

Advantages	- A wide variety of paper types - Numerous adhesive combinations offering high versatility - More affordable than film material
Disadvantages	- Vulnerable to water and prone to getting dirty - Less durable compared to film-based papers
Representative Papers	Art paper, mirror coated paper, premium paper, kraft paper, washi, etc.

Paper material comes in various types and offers a wide range of adhesive combinations, providing high versatility. However, since it is made of paper, it tends to deteriorate easily when exposed to water.

Type 2: Film Material

Film material is made by processing plastics and is used even outdoors.

Advantages	- Excellent water resistance and durability - Suitable for outdoor and long-term use - A wide variety of adhesives available
Disadvantages	- More expensive than paper material
Representative Papers	Yupo, transparent PET, hologram, pearl paper, PVC, etc.

Film material offers excellent water resistance and durability, making it ideal for outdoor use, long-term applications, and wet environments.

4 Key Tips for Choosing Sticker Paper

The main tips for choosing sticker paper are as follows:

Tip 1: Choose According to the Printing Method

When creating your own stickers, it is important to choose paper that is compatible with your printer.

Sticker papers are mainly available in three types.

For home printers, inkjet is most common. Inkjet printers use either dye-based or pigment-based inks, so please check which type your printer uses and choose the corresponding paper.

Tip 2: Determine the Required Quantity and Select the Optimal Size

Sticker paper is typically available in A4 size, which is compatible with most printers. When producing stickers, check the size you want to create and calculate how many can be produced from one A4 sheet, then prepare the necessary number of sheets.

Sticker paper comes in types that are pre-cut into rectangles or circles, as well as continuous, uncut types. Choose the type that best fits your needs.

Tip 3: Select a Paper That Suits the Intended Use

When choosing sticker paper, it is crucial to select one that is appropriate for the environment and intended use.

For example, if the stickers will be used in a bathroom or kitchen where they might get wet, choose paper that is water-resistant. Water-resistant sticker paper will prevent the label from smudging or tearing even when wet.

Also, home printer inks and pigments are generally not water-resistant, so avoid using them in wet areas. If you must use them, consider laminating the printed surface to protect it.

If the goal is to promote a store or increase brand recognition, choosing eye-catching paper is also recommended. Always select sticker paper that is appropriate for its intended use.

Tip 4: Choose the Appropriate Adhesive Strength

When choosing sticker paper, do not forget to consider the adhesive strength.

Sticker papers are available with a range of adhesive strengths—from standard adhesives, to strong adhesives that ensure a secure bond, to removable adhesives that allow easy removal. Choosing the sticker paper with the appropriate adhesive strength for the intended use is key.

The main types of adhesives are summarized in the table below.

Standard Adhesive	- Offers moderate adhesion suitable for general use - Commonly used for indoor or temporary labels and packaging
Strong Adhesive	- Provides powerful adhesion for securely attaching stickers or labels - Suitable for permanent or long-term applications, especially outdoors or in harsh environments
Weak Adhesive	- Features a weak adhesive that allows for easy removal - Ideal for reusable stickers or temporary markings
Removable Adhesive	- Can be easily removed without leaving much residue - Best suited for stickers or labels intended for temporary use

As a sticker printing company, we have produced countless stickers over the years. We offer proposals for the best paper and materials based on your intended use, so please feel free to contact us via the "Contact" page.

Top 10 Recommended Sticker Papers! A Guide by Type

Here, we introduce our top recommended sticker papers for both paper and film materials. We also explain the features and applications of each type, to help you choose the right sticker paper.

Paper Material: 5 Recommended Sticker Papers

Our top 5 recommended papers for paper-based sticker materials are as follows:

Art Paper: Offers a Subtle Gloss for a Refined Look

Art Paper is characterized by its subtle gloss and excellent ink reproduction. It is widely used in magazines, catalogs, and pamphlets due to its ability to print vibrant colors.

It is relatively inexpensive compared to other papers and is primarily used for indoor stickers and labels.

The key features of Art Paper are summarized below.

Gloss	Yes (Subtle gloss)
Texture	Smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping - Embossing (with minimal relief)
Main Uses	- Product packaging - Ribbon stickers - Barcode labels and more

Below is an example of food labels produced using Art Paper.

For more examples of work using Art Paper, please refer to the article below.

Work Example｜Hitsujiya – Package Stickers

Mirror Coated Paper: Captivates with Vivid Color and Shine

Mirror Coated Paper features a strong mirror-like gloss. It is ideal for printing colorful images and photographs vividly, making it a popular choice for advertisements. Its excellent ink reproduction makes for eye-catching labels.

It is also relatively affordable while being versatile for a wide range of applications.

Gloss	Yes
Texture	Smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping - Embossing (with minimal relief)
Main Uses	- Product packaging - Campaign stickers - Novelty stickers and more

Below is an example of stickers for an apparel brand produced using Mirror Coated Paper.

Premium Paper: Natural Texture for an Elegant Look

Premium Paper is characterized by its matte texture and lack of gloss. Without a coating, the ink may appear slightly darker, giving a subdued, refined impression.

Premium Paper is mainly used for labels on cosmetics, food, and beverages.

Gloss	None
Texture	Smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping - Embossing (with minimal relief)
Main Uses	- Product packaging - Novelty stickers - Gift stickers and more

Below is an example of coffee labels produced using Premium Paper.

For more examples of work using Premium Paper, please refer to the article below.

Work Example｜Kiitos – Product Label

Work Example｜Akase Corporation – Embossed Foil Stamps

Matte Coated Paper: Matte Texture for Readable Text

Matte Coated Paper is known for its matte texture and pure white color. Although the ink may appear slightly darker due to its absorbency, its non-reflective surface makes text highly readable. This quality makes it suitable for printed materials such as flyers and pamphlets.

Gloss	None
Texture	Feels as smooth as copy paper
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping - Embossing (with minimal relief)
Main Uses	- Product packaging - Labels for alcoholic beverages - Correction stickers and more

Below is an example of package stickers produced using Matte Coated Paper.

Washi: Expressing a Traditional Japanese Impression

Washi is characterized by its unique matte texture. Due to its fibrous nature, washi has a slightly uneven surface that can make the ink appear a bit darker, yet it exudes a sense of luxury.

In addition to the standard white washi, there are various types such as "Dairei" with coarse fibers, "Crepe" with pronounced texture, and "Kin" which is sprinkled with gold dust. The visible fibers lend a distinctive look, making washi popular for labels on alcoholic beverages and traditional sweets.

Gloss	None
Texture	Smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping - Embossing (with minimal relief)
Main Uses	- Labels for alcoholic beverages - Packaging for traditional sweets - Novelty stickers for ryokan and more

Below is an example of product stickers produced using washi.

For more examples of work using washi, please refer to the following article.

Work Example｜Donnerdugateau Corp – Product Sticker

Work Example｜KOU Inc. – Embossed Foil Sticker

Film Material: 5 Recommended Sticker Papers

If water resistance and durability are required, film material is recommended.

The main film materials are as follows:

Yupo: Offers Water Resistance Suitable for Refrigerators and Wet Environments

Yupo is a synthetic paper made from polypropylene resin. It excels in durability and water resistance, making it suitable for stickers used outdoors or in wet areas.

It is also used for labels on refrigerated or frozen foods, as it minimizes wrinkles caused by condensation from temperature changes.

Yupo is cost-effective and is utilized in a wide range of applications.

Gloss	None
Texture	Paper-like feel and a smooth touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping - Embossing (with very minimal relief)
Main Uses	- Labels for refrigerated and frozen foods - Stickers for wet areas - Pharmaceutical labels and more

Below is an example of craft beer labels produced using Yupo.

For additional work examples using Yupo, please refer to the following article.

Work Example｜Ethical Beauty Inc. – Shampoo Bottle Label

Work Example｜Yorocco Beer – Washed Out

Transparent PET: Used for Creating Transparent Stickers

Transparent PET is a polyester film used for stickers.

Because it is transparent, only the printed portion stands out, making it ideal for transparent stickers where a subtle presence is desired while still highlighting the design.

It also offers high durability and water resistance, making it versatile for various applications.

Gloss	Available in Gloss and Matte
Texture	Gloss: Very smooth Matte: Smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping
Main Uses	- Window stickers - Package labels - Product labels and more

Below is an example of transparent novelty stickers produced using Transparent PET.

For more examples of work using Transparent PET, please refer to the article below.

Work Example｜Yamaha Inc. – Multi-layer Labels

Hologram: Captivates with Changing Colors as It Moves

Hologram Stickers are made from a special material that changes its reflective color depending on the viewing angle. They exude a beautiful presence and are highly eye-catching.

Hologram stickers are durable and water-resistant. For outdoor use, applying a gloss laminate further extends their lifespan. However, among film materials, holograms are relatively high in price.

Holograms are also used on banknotes, ID cards, passports, etc., as their light-reflecting properties make them very difficult to counterfeit.

Gloss	Yes
Texture	Very smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	None in particular
Main Uses	- Campaign stickers - Novelty stickers - Anti-counterfeit stickers for documents and more

Below is an example of hologram sticker production.

For more work examples using holograms, please refer to the following article.

Work Example｜Members Inc. – Hologram Stickers

Pearl Paper: Exudes an Elegant Shine and a Sense of Luxury

Pearl Paper is characterized by a lustrous, pearl-like shine. It reproduces ink beautifully and creates a high-end look. It is ideal for emphasizing gloss and a three-dimensional effect. The fine texture provides a high-quality luster.

When applied to curved surfaces like bottles, the unique qualities of pearl paper stand out even more.

Gloss	Yes (Subtle gloss)
Texture	Very smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping
Main Uses	- Labels for high-end food products - Cosmetic labels - Alcohol labels and more

PVC: Offers Superior Durability and Weather Resistance for Outdoor Use

PVC (Envy) is highly durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor sticker applications.

PVC is available in both "white PVC" and "transparent PVC".

White PVC is a white film sticker with color printing applied on top, while transparent PVC is printed directly with color without a white base, giving it a stained-glass-like appearance.

There are also colored PVC options such as black, red, blue, yellow, and green; however, due to limited color availability, they are less frequently used and are mainly employed for industrial warning plates, etc.

Gloss	Available in Gloss and Matte
Texture	Very smooth to the touch
Compatible Finishes	- Foil stamping
Main Uses	- Labels for high-end food products - Cosmetic labels - Car stickers - Snowboard stickers - Helmet stickers and more

Below is an example of potting stickers produced using PVC.

Know the Characteristics of Materials and Choose the Right Paper

There are various types of sticker papers available. Although it is possible to produce them on your own, choosing the wrong paper can cause the sticker to peel off or the ink to bleed, so caution is necessary.

When producing stickers or labels for products, it is recommended to work with a printing company. Printing companies have the specialized technology and equipment to produce high-quality stickers.

We offer a wide range of sticker papers and create custom-made stickers and labels tailored to our customers' needs. We provide thorough support from material selection to final production, so please feel free to contact us.