Can stickers be applied to cylinders or very rounded objects?

Our stickers stick best to flat surfaces. On cylinders and very curved objects, such as bike parts, lip balm tubes or fishing rods, the edges can lift because the sticker wants to stay flat. How well a sticker holds depends on how tight the curve is and what the object is made of, including its surface texture.

What helps on rounded objects

• A stronger adhesive. Hi-tack Vinyl grips harder than the standard permanent adhesive and is made for curved and textured surfaces.

• A tougher sticker. Heavy Duty Stickers use PVC, Hi-tack adhesive and a thick laminate for demanding surfaces, such as on motorcycles.

• A thin, flexible material. Thinner materials follow a curve more easily. Avoid stiff finishes such as epoxy, which only work on flat surfaces.

• A little heat. Some customers warm the sticker slightly before applying it so it becomes softer and follows the curve. Be careful, as too much heat can damage the sticker.

Test before a large order

Order a small run first and test the stickers on your actual product before you place a bulk order. Then you can see how they look and hold on your curve. Apply them to a clean, dry surface.

For more on adhesives, see the difference between permanent, hi-tack and low-tack adhesive and the Dictionary.