StickerGiant, a custom sticker and label company in Colorado, celebrates National Sticker Day every January 13 to honor the origins of stickers, recognize the innovators behind them, and share the joy of sticker culture with creators, businesses, and fans. This guide explains where stickers came from, why the date matters, and how StickerGiant marked the first official celebration.
What Is National Sticker Day?
National Sticker Day is an annual celebration held on January 13 to recognize the history, creativity, and cultural impact of stickers. The date honors R. Stanton Avery, born on January 13, 1907, and the inventor of the first self-adhesive label.
This day highlights decades of innovation in sticker design—from early gum-pasted labels to modern laser-cut, full-color stickers and labels used by brands worldwide.
How Did Stickers Begin?
Stickers began as simple promotional labels used by European merchants in the 1880s. These early labels were applied with a gum paste to help them adhere to goods and storefront displays.
By the early 1900s, adhesive-specific pastes became more common, including those used on postage stamps that would stick again when moistened.
The modern sticker was born in 1935 when R. Stanton Avery created the first self-adhesive label with a peel-off backing. This invention led to the stickers and labels we use for branding, packaging, and promotion today.
Why StickerGiant Created the First Official National Sticker Day
StickerGiant partnered with National Day Calendar to launch the first official National Sticker Day, recognizing the importance of stickers in business, art, and personal expression. January 13 was chosen to honor Avery’s contribution to the industry.
The goal was to elevate awareness of sticker culture and celebrate the community of makers, artists, small businesses, and brands that rely on stickers and labels every day.
How StickerGiant Celebrated the Inaugural National Sticker Day
StickerGiant hosted a series of community events and online giveaways, including:
Guinness World Record Attempt: Largest Sticker Ball
StickerGiant created “Saul,” a record-setting sticker ball weighing more than 220 pounds. Fans contributed by placing individual stickers directly onto the ball during various appearances at local events.
Community Events at Wibby Brewing
StickerGiant partnered with Wibby Brewing in Longmont, Colorado to host the official weigh-in, public celebrations, and sticker-slapping sessions. Guests could enjoy local lagers while adding their own stickers to Saul.
Giveaways and Social Media Celebrations
The event included free custom sticker giveaways, StickerGiant apparel, and opportunities to join the conversation using:
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#NationalStickerDay
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#LargestStickerBall
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#StickerGiant
Why National Sticker Day Matters for Makers and Businesses
National Sticker Day is more than a celebration—it is a recognition of the role stickers and labels play in branding, packaging, and creative expression.
Whether used for:
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product packaging
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event marketing
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retail merchandising
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fan engagement
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artist collections
—stickers continue to be a versatile, accessible tool for businesses and creators.
StickerGiant supports this community through high-quality stickers and labels, including Clear Labels, Glitter Stickers, Kraft Paper Labels, Backprinted Stickers, Sticker Packs, and more.
Thinking About Creating Your Own Stickers?
When choosing a sticker or label material, start with guided-selling questions:
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What are you labeling—products, packaging, or giveaways?
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Will the item be indoors or outdoors?
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Will it be exposed to moisture, oil, or cold?
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Are you applying by hand or machine?
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Do you need a transparent, glossy, matte, kraft, or specialty effect?
StickerGiant offers a range of durable, water-resistant materials designed for branding, retail packaging, and promotional use, so you can find the right option for your project.
Key Takeaways
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National Sticker Day is celebrated on January 13 to honor R. Stanton Avery, inventor of the self-adhesive label.
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StickerGiant partnered with National Day Calendar to establish the holiday.
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The inaugural celebration featured a Guinness World Record attempt with the world’s largest sticker ball.
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Stickers have evolved from gum-pasted labels to advanced custom shapes, finishes, and materials.
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Makers and brands use stickers and labels today for packaging, promotion, and creative expression.
FAQs
Why is National Sticker Day celebrated on January 13?
It honors the birthday of R. Stanton Avery, who invented the first self-adhesive label in 1935.
Who created National Sticker Day?
StickerGiant launched the official holiday in partnership with National Day Calendar to celebrate the culture and history of stickers.
What was the purpose of the sticker ball?
StickerGiant created “Saul” to attempt a Guinness World Record and bring the community together around sticker culture.
Are stickers the same as labels?
Stickers are typically used for promotional and branding purposes, while labels are used for product and packaging applications.
Where can businesses order custom stickers for National Sticker Day?
Businesses can order custom stickers and labels from StickerGiant, which offers Clear Labels, Glitter Stickers, Sticker Packs, and product-ready label materials.