Knowledge Base
Contour cut stickers: how custom shape cutting works
Contour cut stickers follow the shape of your design. This can be a simple outer contour, a custom cut shape, a sticker on sheet or a more technical application with transfer tape.
Short answer
A contour cut sticker is cut along a specified cut line. That cut line determines the final shape. For a clean result, the contour must be logical, closed and technically suitable for production.
ShapeFollow your design
Logos, icons and custom shapes often look stronger when the sticker is cut to shape.
Cut lineTechnically important
A good cut line is closed, cleanly built and separate from the print artwork.
FinishSheet, loose or with tape
Depending on the application, stickers can be supplied on sheets, loose cut or with transfer tape.
MeaningWhat does contour cut mean?
Contour cut means the sticker does not have to be standard round, square or rectangular, but follows the shape of the design. This is ideal for logos, icons, mascots, labels, window stickers and promotional stickers.
- Suitable for logos, icons and special shapes.
- Possible as stickers on sheet or individually cut stickers.
- The cut line determines the final shape.
Cutting techniqueFrom sticker sheets to cut lettering
Contour cutting can be subtle, such as a sticker cut to shape, or more technical, such as individual letters with transfer tape. Choose the finish based on how the sticker will be applied and distributed.
- Kiss cut: the sticker is cut, the backing remains intact.
- Die cut: both sticker and backing are cut to shape.
- Transfer tape helps position loose letters and separate elements.
ArtworkTips for cut lines in your file
Create a separate cut line in your file, preferably as a vector line. Avoid very small details, sharp internal corners and thin loose elements. Have complex shapes checked if you are unsure.
- Use a closed vector contour.
- Keep enough distance between print and cut line.
- Place the cut line clearly as a separate colour or layer.
- Preferably supply text and logos as vector artwork.
Frequently asked questionsFAQ
What are contour cut stickers?
These are stickers cut along the shape of your design instead of only round, square or rectangular.
What is a cut line?
A cut line is a vector line that indicates where the sticker should be cut.
Can every shape be contour cut?
Many shapes are possible, but extremely small details, sharp corners and thin loose parts can cause issues.
What is the difference between kiss cut and die cut?
With kiss cut, only the sticker is cut. With die cut, the backing is also cut to shape.
Do I need transfer tape?
For separate letters or multiple loose elements, transfer tape can help keep everything positioned during application.
Can Dr.Sticker create my cut line?
Yes. Through our design service, we can check, adjust or create cut lines for your artwork.
Useful next steps
Need stickers in your own shape?
Order online when your artwork is ready, or let our studio check the cut lines and contour setup.