Sticky tips: everything to make it stick
  1. Sticky tips: everything to make it stick

1 September 2026

Sticky tips: everything to make it stick

Stickers can be used for so many different things: advertising, organising, decorating... But there’s nothing more annoying than a sticker that just won’t stay put! So, how do you make sure your sticker sticks properly? And how do you get rid of those annoying air bubbles underneath? We’ve got the tips & tricks you need!

Does the type of sticker matter?

Absolutely! We offer four different types of stickers: paper, kraft, polyester and metallic. The best material for you mainly depends on what you want to use your sticker for.

Paper and kraft stickers are ideal for use as labels on packaging, products or for other indoor applications. Polyester stickers are much stronger and last longer, making them suitable for all kinds of applications – they can even be used outdoors. The same goes for our metallic stickers.

All our stickers have good adhesive strength, but there are some differences between the materials. Polyester and metallic stickers have a stronger adhesive than paper and kraft stickers. This is because these materials are more resistant to different conditions and last longer.

Want to make sure your stickers stick even better? With a few simple tips, you can get the most out of their adhesive strength!

Tips for applying your sticker properly

You’ve picked the perfect sticker. Now, of course, you want it to stay put! Follow these simple tips for the best possible adhesion.

  • Make sure the surface is clean and grease-free
    Stickers don’t like dirt, dust or grease. Make sure the surface is clean and grease-free before applying your sticker. You can easily clean it with water and a little washing-up liquid or an all-purpose cleaner. Let the surface dry thoroughly before applying the sticker.

  • Pay attention to the temperature
    Stickers adhere best at temperatures between 10 and 30 °C. And we’re mainly talking about the temperature of the surface! If the surface is too cold, the adhesive becomes harder and won’t stick as well. For the best results, make sure the sticker, the surroundings and the surface are all at least 15 °C.

  • Press your sticker down firmly
    Sticker applied? Give it a good press! Applying enough pressure helps the adhesive layer make better contact with the surface. This gives your sticker the best chance of staying firmly in place for a long time.

  • Choose a suitable surface
    The smoother the surface, the better your sticker will generally adhere. On a rough surface, the adhesive layer only makes contact with the highest points. Less contact means less adhesion, so always keep the surface in mind when applying your sticker.

You’ve followed all the steps above, but somehow an air bubble still managed to sneak in. How do you fix it?

How to apply large(r) stickers

The bigger the sticker, the greater the chance of air bubbles. Luckily, with the right approach, they’re easy to prevent. Take your time and follow these steps:

  • Choose the right position first
    Place the sticker where you want it and check carefully that it’s straight. Once it’s stuck down, we recommend not peeling it off again. So: check first, stick second!

  • Start with a small section
    Peel back a small edge of the backing paper and apply it to the surface as straight and smoothly as possible. This is your starting point, so take your time.

  • Work step by step
    Fold the sticker back slightly and gradually peel away more of the backing paper. At the same time, gently smooth the sticker down with a soft cloth or towel. Work from the centre outwards to push out any air trapped underneath.

    Keep the sticker as taut and flat as possible while applying it. Don’t try to stick the whole thing down at once. Working slowly, section by section, will give you the best result.

  • Still got an air bubble? Don’t panic!
    Is your sticker perfectly in place, but you’ve spotted a small air bubble? Carefully prick a tiny hole in the bubble with a thin needle. Gently push the air out and smooth the sticker down again. The tiny hole will barely be visible afterwards.

  • Done!
    Give the sticker one final firm press and you’re all set. Your sticker should now be smooth, free from annoying air bubbles and exactly how you pictured it.