Gloss vs Matte vs Holographic Stickers: Which to Pick

Short answerGloss and matte cost the same, so pick the look you like. Holographic costs more. At 3x3 inches and 100 stickers, holographic is $104 on every shape, and gloss is $88 to $94. Every finish comes in all six sizes, on waterproof vinyl with a laminate.

What are the three sticker finishes?

We offer gloss, matte and holographic on all six sticker shapes: die cut, kiss cut, circle, oval, rectangle and square. They come in sizes from 1x1 to 6x6 inches and quantities from 25 to 1,000.

  • Gloss has a shiny surface.
  • Matte has a surface that is not shiny.
  • Holographic is the specialty finish, with a shifting rainbow look.

How much does each finish cost?

Matte costs the same as gloss. Holographic costs more. Here are die cut stickers at 100 stickers.

Size (die cut, 100) Gloss or matte Holographic Difference
1x1 in $61 $67 $6
2x2 in $73 $81 $8
3x3 in $94 $104 $10
4x4 in $123 $136 $13
5x5 in $160 $177 $17
6x6 in $205 $228 $23

At 3x3 inches and 100 stickers, holographic is $104 on every shape. That is about $1.04 each.

Compare finishes yourself. Switch between gloss, matte and holographic on the product page and watch the price change.

Pick a finish

Which finish should I choose?

Choose gloss when

You want a shiny sticker and the lowest price. Gloss is our baseline price.

Choose matte when

You want a sticker that is not shiny, for the same money as gloss. It can suit a calm, plain brand look.

Choose holographic when

You want stickers that stand out and the extra cost is fine. Holographic is a good pick for a special drop, a giveaway or a small run of eye catching stickers.

These are suggestions. The best way to know is to think about your brand and where the sticker will go.

Does the finish change how waterproof a sticker is?

Our stickers are waterproof vinyl with a laminate, cut to shape. Our sticker page says they are safe for water bottles, tumblers, helmets, car bumpers and outdoor gear. For more, see are vinyl stickers waterproof.

Can I mix finishes in one order?

You choose one finish for each size and quantity you add to your cart. To try two finishes, add each as its own item, with the smallest order of 25 for each.

How do I order?

Open the die cut sticker page or any shape from the custom stickers page, pick your finish, size and quantity, and check out. See every price in custom sticker prices. Ships from Georgia, with free local pickup in Cumming.

What does the extra cost of holographic look like?

Here is die cut at 25 stickers, side by side.

Size (die cut, 25) Gloss or matte Holographic
1x1 in $38 $41
2x2 in $43 $47
3x3 in $51 $56
4x4 in $63 $68
5x5 in $78 $84
6x6 in $96 $104

At small sizes the gap is small. A 1x1 inch holographic sticker is $3 more than gloss at 25 stickers. At 6x6 inches it is $8 more.

What should I ask myself?

  • Where will the sticker go, and what will it sit next to?
  • Do I want it to stand out, or blend in?
  • Is the extra cost for holographic fine for this order?
  • Do I want to try two finishes at 25 each before a big order?

If your answer is "I do not know," start with gloss or matte. They cost the same, and you can try holographic on your next order. Questions? Use the contact page.

Which finish for which job?

Job Finish to consider
Everyday logo stickers Gloss or matte, same price
A plain, calm look Matte
A shiny look at the lowest price Gloss
A giveaway or special run that should stand out Holographic

This is only a starting point. Your brand and the spot where the sticker goes matter more than any rule.

What does holographic cost per sticker at a bigger order?

Size (die cut, 250) Gloss each Holographic each
2x2 in $0.42 $0.48
3x3 in $0.60 $0.68
4x4 in $0.85 $0.96

Who is this guide for? Brands and teams choosing a finish before they order. If you need help, send a message on the contact page.

Common questions

Are matte stickers cheaper than gloss?

No. Matte costs the same as gloss.

How much more is holographic?

It depends on size. At 100 die cut stickers, holographic is $6 more at 1x1 inch and $23 more at 6x6 inch. At 3x3 inches it is $104 against $94 for die cut gloss.

Do you have custom holographic stickers?

Yes. Holographic is one of our three finishes, on all six shapes and sizes.

Is there a minimum for holographic stickers?

The smallest sticker order is 25, in any finish.

Back to blog
Custom Die-Cut Stickers, FiftyOne Designs custom sticker

Order Custom Stickers

Die cut, kiss cut, circle, oval, rectangle or square. Waterproof laminated vinyl in 1 to 6 inches, gloss, matte or holographic.

From $37.00 for 25

Shop StickersDie cut stickers

Related guides

DTF Transfers Gang Sheets Custom Hats Hat Patches Laser Engraving Custom Stickers
All Guides Get a Quote