Stanton Avery was an American inventor who, in the early 1930s, developed the first self-adhesive label . His invention stemmed from the need for a convenient labelling solution that didn’t require messy adhesives, water, or paste. His adhesive-backed labels were groundbreaking; they featured a paper label with an adhesive layer on one side , attached to a paper liner that could be peeled off easily.
In 1935, Avery founded Avery Adhesives (now Avery Dennison) to manufacture and distribute his invention, which quickly gained popularity in industries worldwide. His creation paved the way for mass-market labels and stickers , which became indispensable for packaging, branding, and a range of personal and commercial uses.
How Stanton Avery Revolutionised Sticker Printing
1. The Creation of Pressure-Sensitive Labels
Before Avery’s self-adhesive labels, labels typically required glue or water-activated adhesive to be applied manually. Avery’s invention of pressure-sensitive labels transformed this process. His labels had adhesive already applied to the back, requiring only a slight amount of pressure to stick to any surface. This ease of use was revolutionary and paved the way for the sticker printing industry we know today, with stickers that can be applied quickly and easily without mess.
2. Introduction of the Peel-Off Backing
Avery’s creation of a peel-off backing was another innovation that has become standard in custom sticker printing. This paper liner prevents the adhesive from sticking to other surfaces until it’s needed. Today, sticker sheets, custom vinyl stickers, and custom die-cut stickers all incorporate this backing, making Avery's legacy an integral part of every sticker we produce.
3. Scalable Manufacturing Processes
To meet the growing demand for self-adhesive labels, Avery developed manufacturing processes that allowed for mass production. This ability to produce stickers at scale has been vital for today’s sticker industry, enabling affordable, high-quality stickers for small businesses, marketing campaigns, and personal use . From product labels to promotional giveaways, we have Avery's scalable production methods to thank for the accessibility of stickers in everyday life.
4. Label Customisation for Various Industries
Avery’s innovation in sticker printing didn’t stop at labels for product packaging. His self-adhesive labels could be adapted for different surfaces and purposes, making them ideal for industries like retail, logistics, and healthcare . Today, custom sticker printing businesses can offer a range of materials and finishes tailored to any purpose, from waterproof vinyl stickers for outdoor use to eco-friendly stickers for environmentally-conscious brands.
While Avery’s invention was initially focused on product labelling, the concept has evolved, and custom stickers now serve many purposes, from personalisation to effective marketing. Below are several popular applications of custom stickers today:
1. Branding and Promotion
Businesses use custom stickers as affordable, eye-catching branding tools. Logo stickers are widely used by companies to increase brand visibility on products, packaging, and promotional materials. Stickers with strong visual designs help brands engage with their audience and create memorable interactions, keeping Avery's original vision for branding and identification alive.
2. Product Packaging and Labelling
Avery's initial goal of transforming labels for product packaging has only grown in relevance. Custom product labels make products stand out on shelves and convey essential information like ingredients, usage instructions, and branding elements. With custom sticker printing, businesses can order high-quality labels that are waterproof, UV-resistant, and suited to their products’ specific requirements.
3. Personal Use and Decoration
Personalised stickers are everywhere—from laptops and water bottles to cars and walls. Today, custom sticker printing allows individuals to express themselves with unique designs that can be easily created and ordered online. These custom stickers are also great for events like weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations, where personalised decorations are always a hit.
4. Educational and Informational Stickers
Educational stickers are widely used in schools, healthcare facilities, and offices. Informational stickers can display instructions, reminders, or helpful icons, making information accessible and easy to follow. Custom stickers can also be produced in bright colours and clear fonts to enhance readability, making them particularly useful in environments where quick and clear communication is essential.
5. Vehicle and Window Decals
Vinyl stickers are now commonly used as vehicle and window decals for advertising. This form of mobile marketing allows businesses to reach a wider audience as their branding travels along with their vehicles. Custom vinyl stickers are weather-resistant, durable, and can be made in larger sizes to fit cars, shop windows, or any public-facing surface.
How Custom Sticker Printing Builds on Avery’s Innovation
The custom sticker printing industry today owes a lot to Stanton Avery's pioneering work. Thanks to his innovations, we now have a versatile range of sticker types, materials, and finishes that meet the needs of individuals, artists, and businesses of all kinds. Here are some of the ways Avery’s legacy lives on in modern custom sticker printing:
1. Advanced Adhesive Options
Avery’s invention set the standard for adhesive stickers, and today, customers can choose from a variety of adhesive strengths and types to meet their specific needs. From removable adhesive for temporary applications to permanent adhesive for long-term use, these custom options keep stickers practical and versatile.
2. Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable Stickers
As demand grows for environmentally conscious products, sticker printing businesses have started offering eco-friendly stickers that are biodegradable or made from sustainable materials. These innovations honour Avery’s original goal of providing practical, high-quality labels while catering to the modern market's environmental values.
3. Variety of Finishes and Materials
Unlike the original plain paper labels, today’s custom stickers come in an array of finishes and materials , including matte, gloss, holographic, and metallic. This range allows businesses to tailor stickers to their branding style and desired aesthetic. For example, holographic stickers catch the light, making them perfect for eye-catching designs, while matte stickers offer a subtle, refined look.
4. Custom Shapes and Sizes with Die-Cutting
Modern printing technology allows stickers to be die-cut into custom shapes , giving brands and individuals even more ways to create unique designs. Whether it’s a logo that follows the contour of a brand symbol or a quirky design that expresses personality, custom shapes have become a staple of the sticker industry thanks to advancements in cutting techniques inspired by Avery's scalable production models.
5. Digital Printing and Colour Accuracy
Today’s sticker printing industry benefits from digital printing technology , allowing for high-resolution designs with vibrant colours. Avery’s original designs were limited to a basic colour palette, but now, digital printing makes it possible to recreate detailed artwork and logos with full colour accuracy, making custom sticker printing a valuable asset for professional branding.
The Future of Custom Sticker Printing: Innovation Meets Tradition
As the custom sticker printing industry continues to grow, innovations in printing and material technology ensure that we’re constantly building on Stanton Avery’s legacy. Stickers remain an incredibly versatile tool, with applications expanding from product labels to promotional materials, home decor, and beyond. Avery’s invention opened the door for creative expression, practical branding, and unique marketing opportunities that we still rely on today.
In honouring Avery’s pioneering work, modern sticker printing businesses are committed to providing high-quality, customisable, and eco-friendly sticker solutions that serve a wide range of needs and continue to bring designs to life. Whether you’re looking to personalise your products, promote your brand, or simply add a bit of fun to your everyday items, custom sticker printing makes it easy to create something truly unique and impactful.
