Printable sticker paper: matt, gloss, clear or vinyl?
Match the sticker paper to your printer and to where the sticker is going, and you'll get it right first time.
"Sticker paper", "A4 label paper", "printable vinyl": the names overlap, but the products don't. Get these three things right and you'll buy the right pack first time: your printer type, where the sticker will live, and whether you want full sheets or pre-cut labels.
Pick by where the sticker is going
| It's going on… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Envelopes, files, jars in the cupboard | matt white paper | you can write on it, works in most printers |
| Laptops, notebooks, gifts | gloss paper | brighter colours |
| Water bottles, lunch boxes | printable vinyl | copes better with water and handling |
| Glass jars and bottles | clear film | the glass shows through |
| Handmade products and gifts | kraft paper | natural, rustic look |
| Photos and art prints | adhesive photo paper | photo-quality finish |
Inkjet or laser: check the pack
Most vinyl, gloss and photo sticker papers are made for inkjet. Laser printers heat the page, so only use papers marked for laser in a laser printer, or you risk smudged prints or film melting inside the machine. Clear film comes in separate inkjet and laser versions.
In short: inkjet gives the best colour; laser gives prints that are dry immediately and stand up better to water.
Full sheet or pre-cut labels?
- Full A4 sheet: any shape and size, but you cut them yourself. See our full A4 sticker sheet.
- Pre-cut labels: identical labels that peel straight off, from 2 to 65 per sheet. Browse A4 label sheets; several layouts match popular Avery sizes, see label templates in Avery sizes.
Print settings that save sheets
Test on plain paper first, print at actual size, and set the paper type to "Labels" or "Heavy paper". Full settings are in how to print on A4 sticker paper, and for shaped stickers see how to make stickers at home.
When sheets stop making sense
If you're labelling hundreds of products or every order, rolls are faster than sheets, either printed on a thermal printer or delivered ready-printed. See custom printed labels.
FAQ
Can I use sticker paper in a laser printer?
Only if the pack says it is suitable for laser. Most vinyl, gloss and photo sticker papers are made for inkjet printers.
What sticker paper is waterproof?
Printable vinyl copes with water much better than paper. On paper, print with a laser printer and cover the sticker with clear laminate.
Is there clear printable sticker paper?
Yes, in separate inkjet and laser versions. Check which one matches your printer before buying.
