When choosing a sticker type for branding, personalization, or labeling, both UV DTF stickers and dome stickers offer unique advantages. But which is best for your needs?
While both can be used in a wide variety of applications, the ideal choice depends on key factors such as surface type, visual finish, durability, and your design goals. In this article, we’ll define each sticker type, explain how they’re made, and give you seven practical tips to help you decide — plus a side-by-side comparison table at the end.
What Are UV DTF Stickers?
UV DTF (Direct to Film) stickers are an innovative solution in the world of custom labeling. The design is printed in reverse on a special film using UV-curable inks, then covered with an adhesive layer and applied directly to the target surface. Once pressed on and the carrier is removed, only the ink remains, leaving behind a seamless design with no visible edges or background.
These stickers can be applied to various materials — including glass, plastic, wood, and metal — and they adhere firmly without the need for heat or water.
How Are UV DTF Stickers Made?
- The design is printed on a film using CMYK and white inks, cured instantly with UV light.
- An adhesive layer is applied behind the design.
- A final backing film allows easy handling and transfer.
- Once peeled and applied, the ink adheres to the surface, and the carrier film is discarded.
The result is a high-resolution, clean decal with strong adhesion and impressive visual impact — especially on dark or irregular surfaces.
Dome stickers, also known as domed labels or 3D stickers, are printed graphics encased in a clear polyurethane resin. The resin forms a dome shape over the printed vinyl, giving the sticker a raised, glossy, and tactile finish.
They’re widely used for branding on electronics, tools, promotional items, and machinery due to their durability and high-end look.
How Are Dome Stickers Made?
- The artwork is printed onto vinyl — either white, clear, or metallic.
- The printed sticker is then cut to shape.
- A dome of clear resin is poured over the top and cured to harden.
This process creates a thick, protective layer that enhances color vibrancy, shields the design from scratches, and adds a premium 3D effect.
For photos of DTF UV stickers and Dome Stickers visit our Pinterest pages
Now That We Understand How They’re Made, Let’s Compare the Two
Here are seven key tips to consider when choosing between UV DTF and dome stickers:
1. Fine Detailed Printing
Both UV DTF and dome stickers use high-resolution digital printing, making them ideal for logos, small text, and intricate designs. However, there’s a clear visual difference:
- UV DTF: Prints only the ink, with no background. Great for transparent or seamless looks, especially on colored or textured surfaces.
- Dome stickers: Always have a vinyl base (white, clear, or colored). While the print quality is excellent, the background will always be part of the sticker.
👉 If you want ultra-clean edges or a “painted-on” look, UV DTF is your go-to.
2. Metallic Colors
This is a big deciding factor for many brands:
- UV DTF cannot produce metallic effects, since it uses only CMYK and white ink.
- Dome stickers can simulate metallics by printing on gold or silver vinyl or if you want to have the text in metallic colours, you can use a negative space technique.
👉 If your branding includes gold, chrome, or metallic accents, dome stickers offer more flexibility.
3. Branding Curved Surfaces
The flexibility of the sticker makes a huge difference when branding items like bottles, knobs, or uneven shapes.
- UV DTF: Very thin and flexible, making it suitable for curves, bumps, and textured surfaces.
- Dome stickers: Thicker and more rigid due to the resin dome. They work best on flat or gently curved areas.
👉 Need to label a curved object? UV DTF is far easier to apply smoothly.
4. Personalisation Printing
Both types support digital printing, which means you can:
- Print individual names, serial numbers, or custom messages.
- Avoid extra setup or tooling costs.
👉 For short runs, one-off personalization, or name tagging, both options are great.
5. Durability
Durability is where dome stickers shine — literally and figuratively.
- Dome stickers: The polyurethane resin creates a strong, glossy shield. They’re highly resistant to scratches, UV rays, water, and chemicals. Ideal for high-contact surfaces.
- UV DTF: Durable, but thinner. Tiny, detailed sections (like fine text) can be more prone to lifting or wear, especially in areas that are frequently touched.
👉 For high-wear zones (like buttons or equipment panels), dome stickers are more resilient.
6. Branding on Dark Surfaces
Color matching on dark materials can be tricky — unless you’re using UV DTF.
- Dome stickers: The vinyl background must be color-matched to the object. This can be tough, and if it’s slightly off, it may look like a patch rather than an integrated label.
- UV DTF: Prints only the text/design. With white ink support, your design will pop on any dark background, with no need to match vinyl.
👉 For dark or textured surfaces, UV DTF offers a cleaner and more natural appearance.
7. Branding in Complex Shapes
Sometime you have to produce a complicated shape to brand a product
- Dome stickers: Vinyl can be cut into most shapes however because the shape is physically cut from the vinyl with a very small cutting blade, you are limited to how small and complex you can cut. If you cut to small the vinyl my curl over or lift. Even more complicated is the resin. if the shape is too sharp or thin, the resin may not reach into the corners or even overflow the edge as in the image above
- UV DTF Printing: IN the case of UV DTF stickers, the printer prints the shape in high resolution meaning the shape will not be an obstacle.
👉 UV DTF stickers are a clear winner if the shape of your design is complex
Summary Pros & Cons of UV DTF Stickers vs Dome Stickers
| Feature | UV DTF Stickers | Dome Stickers |
|---|---|---|
| Print Detail | Excellent, no background | Excellent, always has a vinyl background |
| Metallic Colors | Not supported | Can print on metallic vinyl or simulate metallics |
| Flexibility on Curves | Very flexible, ideal for curved surfaces | More rigid, best on flat or slightly curved areas |
| Personalization | Easy, no setup costs | Easy, no setup costs |
| Durability | Good, but thin details may wear | Excellent, thick resin protects from wear |
| Dark Surface Application | Perfect — no color matching needed, supports white ink | Needs precise vinyl color match, harder to blend naturally |
| Finish | Matte or satin depending on inks used | Glossy, 3D dome effect |
| Touch Resistance | Better in protected areas | Ideal for high-touch areas |
| Complex Shapes | Easy due to high res printing | Physically limitation |
Final Thoughts
Both UV DTF and dome stickers are modern, effective solutions for branding and personalisation. Your choice depends on the application:
- Choose UV DTF for sleek, seamless looks, curved surfaces, or projects involving dark materials.
- Choose Dome Stickers when you need top-tier durability, metallic finishes, or a raised, premium aesthetic.
Understanding the strengths and limitations of each type will help you make a confident, informed decision — and create a branded experience that sticks.
Need Help Choosing? Let’s Talk!
If you’re still not sure which type is right for you, we’re here to help. Whether you need UV DTF sticker printing or dome sticker printing, We at ActionPrint has you covered. Our team can guide you through the options to find the best fit for your brand and your budget.
Get in touch today!
FAQ: UV DTF Stickers vs Dome Stickers
1. What is a domed sticker?
A domed sticker is a printed vinyl label coated with a thick, clear resin (usually polyurethane) that gives it a raised, 3D look. The resin makes the sticker durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant.
2. Is UV DTF waterproof?
Yes, UV DTF prints are waterproof once fully cured. They are perfect for smooth, hard surfaces like glass, metal, wood, and plastic.
3. Can UV DTF stickers be used on fabric?
No, UV DTF stickers are designed for solid surfaces. They are not flexible enough for fabrics and will not bond properly.
4. What is the difference between UV DTF and normal DTF?
Normal DTF (Direct to Film) printing is mainly used for fabric and requires a heat press. UV DTF printing is for hard surfaces and doesn’t need heat — it cures instantly under UV light.
5. How permanent is UV DTF?
UV DTF stickers are highly durable on hard surfaces. They resist water, fading, and scratching, although the longevity depends slightly on surface preparation and handling.
6. Does UV DTF printing need heat?
No, UV DTF transfers don’t use heat. They rely on UV light to instantly cure and harden the ink.