Vinyl vs. Paper Stickers: Which Material Should You Choose?

So, you have your design ready, but now comes the tricky part: Material.

At Custom Sticker Print, we offer options for every budget and application. Whether you need fully waterproof labels for beer bottles or writable stickers for coffee cups, choosing the right material is key.

Here is the breakdown of our three main categories: Waterproof (Vinyl/BOPP), Uncoated Paper, and Laminated Paper.

1. The Waterproof Champions: Vinyl & BOPP

These are plastic-based materials. They are the gold standard for durability.
Important Distinction:

• Vinyl is used for Custom Stickers (Die-Cut Singles, Kiss-Cut, Sheets).

• BOPP (Polypropylene) is used exclusively for Roll Labels.

Why choose them?

• 100% Waterproof: Both Vinyl and BOPP can be submerged in ice buckets, run through dishwashers, and withstand Canadian rain.

• Oil Resistant: Perfect for cosmetics, essential oils, or food products where drips happen.

• Tear-Proof: You cannot easily rip them.

Best For: Beverages (Beer, Juice), Cosmetics, Outdoor gear, Shampoo bottles.

2. Uncoated Paper (The "Writable" Choice)

This is a standard paper stock with no lamination. It has a natural, matte texture.

• Available for both Stickers and Roll Labels.

Why choose it?

• 100% Writable: This is the ONLY option if you need to easily write expiration dates, flavors, or "Thank You" notes with a standard pen or pencil.

• Budget-Friendly: The most affordable option for high-volume packaging.

• Note: It is not waterproof. Water will soak in and damage the label.

Best For: Coffee sleeves, Takeout bags, Bakeries, Shipping boxes.

3. Laminated Paper (The "Durable Budget" Choice)

This is our paper material, but we add a protective Matte or Gloss lamination layer on top.

• Available for Roll Labels.

Why choose it?

• Splash-Resistant: The lamination protects the ink from scratching and minor splashes of water. It is much more durable than uncoated paper.

• Cost-Effective: It is cheaper than BOPP, giving you a premium look for a lower price.

• Important: Because of the plastic coating, you cannot easily write on it (unless you use a permanent marker). Also, it is not fully waterproof like BOPP (water can eventually seep in from the edges).

Best For: Product labels that need to look premium but don't need to be fully submerged in water.

Summary Comparison

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A Note on Printing 🖨️

Regardless of the material, we print everything using high-quality CMYK digital technology at our Ontario facility.

• Reminder: We do not print white ink. On paper materials, "white" in your design will show as the paper color.

Still Not Sure?

• Need it to last outdoors or in a fridge? Go Vinyl / BOPP.

• Need to save money but look shiny/premium? Go Laminated Paper.

• Need to write on it? Go Uncoated Paper.

Ready to print?
👉 Shop Waterproof Vinyl Stickers
👉 Shop Roll Labels