Decals are one of the most popular items in the print world – and for good reason. They work for everything from safety notices to brand identity, promotions, and more.
Distributors rely on wholesale Custom Decals because they’re versatile, cost-effective, and available in dozens of material and adhesive combinations that solve real-world application needs.
This overview is built to help distributors support clients with confidence by understanding what materials to recommend, which adhesives to consider, and how printing affects the final result.
Choosing the Right Decal Material
Each material brings something different to the table. Here’s how to know what to recommend:
| Material | Adhesive | Description | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Vinyl | Standard Permanent | Flexible and durable; glossy finish | Retail, branding, promotions |
| Removable White Vinyl | Removable | Same look as standard white vinyl, but removes cleanly depending on length of application | Temporary promotions, windows, seasonal graphics |
| Clear Polyester | Standard Permanent | Transparent; glossy finish | Windows, glass doors, anywhere the application surface needs to show through |
| Tuf-Cal™ | Standard Permanent | Standard white vinyl with overlamination to protect against abrasion, some solvents, gasoline, oil, and some acids | Heavy machinery, abrasive/chemical settings |
| Super-Tac | High-Tack | Strong bond; available in white or clear (choose optional overlamination for surface protection) | Storage containers, dumpers, or steel drums |
| Ultra-Tac | Ultra High-Tack | Extra aggressive adhesive; available in white or clear (choose optional overlamination for surface protection) | Powder-coated surfaces and certain types of plastic |
| Chrome & Brushed Chrome | Standard Permanent | Metallic shine or brushed metal appearance | Automotive decals, electronics, equipment |
| Embossable Aluminum | Standard Permanent | Can be embossed with a ballpoint pen; satin finish that is NOT intended to accept ink | Equipment labels, inspection tags, asset labels |
| Write-On Aluminum & White Vinyl | Standard Permanent | Matte surface that readily accepts ink, but does NOT emboss | Equipment labels, inspection tags, asset labels |
| Voidable Chrome | Tamper-Evident | Shiny chrome that reveals “VOID” when removed | Warranty decals, electronics, security seals |
| Destructible Vinyl | Tamper-Evident | Glossy white; crumbles when removed | Inspection tags, asset labels, tamper seals |
| Extended Life Vinyl | Standard Permanent | Rated for 5+ years outdoors; extremely durable | Equipment labels, long-term signage, industrial settings, fleet marking |
| 3M Scotchcal 3650™ | Fuel-Resistant Permanent | Resistant to gasoline vapors and occasional petroleum spills; glossy finish | Equipment labels, long-term signage, industrial settings, fleet marking |
| White Polyester | Standard Permanent | Durable for high temperature applications without shrinkage; glossy finish | Equipment labels, industrial settings |
| White Reflective | Standard Permanent | Slightly gray or pearlescent during the day, reflective and visible at night when illuminated by a light source | Safety signage, emergency decals, hard hats |
| Glow-In-The-Dark | Standard Permanent (Indoor Use) | Short term visibility / glow for approximately 1 hour after proper charge time | Exit path marking, utility promotional decals, giveaways, promotions |
| Holographic & Glitter | Standard Permanent (Indoor Use) | Eye-catching rainbow or glitter sparkle | Promotional branding, giveaways, events |
| Static Stick | No Adhesive (Indoor Use) | Adheres to ultra smooth surfaces like glass or mirrors using static electricity | Indoor retail signage, promotions, hygiene awareness, parking permits, oil change reminders |
Understanding Print Methods
Knowing how a decal will be printed helps clients set expectations for color, finish, and durability.
Spot Color Printing
- Uses specific PMS inks for precise color matching
- Ideal for logos, regulatory markings, and brand consistency
4-Color Process
- Full-color digital printing
- Best for detailed designs, complex art, and photographic elements
Finishing and Format Options
Different cut methods serve different needs. Offer the right format for the situation.
- Individual Square Cut or Die Cut – Individual pieces cut to shape with a crack-and-peel liner for easy removal
- Kiss Cut – Individual decals supplied on a rectangular liner
- Pro-Cut – Individually cut vinyl letters and graphics held together as one piece with a pre-mask transfer tape for easy application onto windows, vehicles, or other smooth hard surfaces (sometimes called contour cut vinyl)
- Domed – Adds a clear, raised 3D resin finish and supplied with multiple decals on a sheet
When to Recommend a Sample
Surface matters. Adhesion can change drastically based on finish, texture, or contamination.
Recommend samples when:
- The surface is powder-coated, textured, or not cleanable
- High-tack or ultra-tack adhesives may be needed
- Long-term outdoor exposure is expected
- The client needs assurance before rollout
Stouse offers free samples so you can help your clients get it right the first time.
Helping Clients Get the Right Fit
When distributors know the difference between materials, adhesives, and print options, clients notice. You’re not just providing a product—you’re solving a need. Whether it’s durability, branding, safety, or tamper evidence, the right decal exists. Helping your clients pick it means fewer issues, more reorders, and stronger trust in you as their go-to printer.
Explore Wholesale Decals from Stouse, and contact our knowledgeable experts if you have any questions. We’re here to help you avoid potential pitfalls and obstacles along the way!
