You've seen them on lottery tickets. You've probably scratched one at a restaurant promotion or a school fundraiser. But did you know you can buy scratch off stickers and use them yourself — on anything you want?
If you've ever wondered what scratch off stickers actually are, how they work, and whether they're right for your project, you're in the right place.
The Simple Answer
A scratch off sticker is a self-adhesive label with a special scratchable coating — usually silver or gold — that completely conceals whatever is written or printed underneath it. The recipient scratches the surface with a coin or scratcher chip to reveal the hidden message, prize, discount, or surprise beneath.
That's it. No paint. No mess. No special equipment. Just peel, stick, and let the magic happen.
What Makes Scratch Off Stickers Different from Regular Stickers?
Regular stickers are decorative — they add something to the surface. Scratch off stickers are functional — they hide something beneath the surface. The scratchable coating is what sets them apart. It's durable enough to stay intact during handling and mailing, but releases cleanly when scratched, leaving no residue or mess behind.
The Anatomy of a Scratch Off Sticker
Every scratch off sticker has three key layers working together to create that satisfying reveal:
- The scratchable top coating — the silver or gold metallic surface that gets scratched away by a coin or fingernail
- The blackout layer — a black scratchable material beneath the top coating that ensures nothing can be seen through the sticker, keeping your hidden message completely concealed until scratched
- The adhesive sticker — the bottom layer that bonds securely to your card or surface, holding everything in place until it's time for the big reveal
Once applied over your hidden message, the sticker bonds to the surface and stays put until someone scratches it off. It's a one-time reveal — which is exactly what makes it so exciting.
What Shapes, Sizes & Colors Are Available?
At My Scratch Offs, we carry scratch off stickers in a wide range of options to fit any project:
- Shapes: Round, square, rectangle, and heart
- Sizes: 0.50" up to 2" for individual stickers; full 8.5" x 11" sheets also available for custom cutting
- Colors: Classic silver, gold, and other color options
- Pricing: Starting at $10.99
Whether you need a tiny 0.50" dot to cover a single word or a large 2" round to hide a full prize reveal, there's a size that fits.
What Are Scratch Off Stickers Used For?
The short answer: anything that involves a hidden reveal. Here are some of the most popular uses:
- Business promotions — hide discount codes, prizes, or special offers on marketing cards
- Classroom rewards — teachers write custom rewards and let students scratch to reveal
- Wedding & bridal — save-the-dates, bridesmaid proposals, and party games
- Fundraisers — schools, nonprofits, and sports teams use them for scratch-to-win tickets
- Gift reveals — hide a surprise trip, gift card, or special message
- Direct mail — add a scratch off element to postcards to dramatically boost response rates
- Baby showers & gender reveals — interactive reveal moments guests will never forget
How Do You Use Them?
It couldn't be simpler:
- Write your hidden message in the blank area using a marker (pencil/pen not recommended; marker not included)
- Let the ink dry completely
- Peel the scratch off sticker from its backing
- Apply it directly over your message, pressing firmly from the center outward
- Hand it out — and let the scratching begin!
Ready to Try Them?
Browse our full collection of scratch off stickers and find the perfect size, shape, and color for your next project. Not sure where to start? Our 2" round silver sticker is our most popular — and for good reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are scratch off stickers reusable?
A: No — once scratched, the coating cannot be reapplied. This is actually part of what makes them so effective for promotions and reveals. Each card is a one-time, exciting experience that feels special every single time.
Q: Will scratch off stickers stick to any surface?
A: Scratch off stickers adhere best to smooth, flat surfaces like paper, cardstock, and most printed materials. Avoid textured, uneven, or oily surfaces as these can cause lifting or poor adhesion. For best results, always apply to a clean, dry surface and press firmly from the center outward.
Q: Can scratch off stickers be mailed?
A: Yes! Our scratch off stickers are mail-safe and hold up well through standard postal handling. They're a popular choice for direct mail campaigns, wedding invitations, and surprise mailings to friends and family.
Q: Do scratch off stickers work on dark-colored cards?
A: Absolutely. Since the sticker sits on top of the surface rather than being printed on it, the color of your card doesn't affect how the sticker looks or performs. The stickers will show up clearly on any card color.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Karen — founder of My Scratch Offs. After 17+ years helping businesses and individuals create memorable scratch-off experiences, I'm excited to share practical tips, ideas, and inspiration right here.
