When to Use Custom Shaped Notes Instead of Standard Rectangles

Sticky notes are one of those things everybody uses—scribbled reminders on a desk, quick jots in a meeting, or a note stuck to a fridge. They’re dead practical, no doubt. But when trying to get your brand to pop, the usual square or rectangle might not cut it. That’s where custom-shaped sticky notes come in, bringing a bit of flair that can make all the difference. So, when do you roll with a funky shape, and when’s the classic rectangle still your best bet?

Cubic Promote has helped many businesses figure this out. Let’s break it down and see what works for your next branding move.

Making a Splash at Events

Picture a trade show—booths everywhere, stacks of flyers, and promo gear piling up. You’ve got seconds to grab someone’s attention. A custom-shaped sticky note can be your secret weapon here. Think of a coffee cup shape for a cafe or a house for a real estate crew. It’s not just a note—it’s a mini billboard that screams your brand before anyone even writes on it.

People notice different stuff. A quirky shape like a cloud or a lightbulb gets folks talking, maybe even chuckling, as they stick it in their bag. We’ve seen these steal the show at conferences, where regular rectangles get buried under business cards. It’s like handing out something that says, “Yeah, we’re not boring,” which sticks in people’s heads long after they’re back at their desks.

Campaigns That Need a Twist

Custom shapes shine when running a campaign meant to feel fresh or tied to something specific. Say you’re a nonprofit pushing for greener habits—leaf-shaped notes hammer that message home without saying a word. Or a gym hyping a new class. Dumbbell-shaped notes are a no-brainer. The shape itself tells part of the story, turning a sticky note into something that feels like it belongs to the moment.

These are great for when you want your brand to feel playful or clever. A weird shape catches people off guard—in a good way—and makes them remember you. It’s not just another freebie; it’s a bit of a surprise that shows you’ve put some thought into it.

When Simple’s Better

Now, don’t get me wrong—rectangles aren’t the bad guys. If you’re stocking an office, sending out internal memos, or need something that works for everything, the classic shape’s your friend. It has the most space for writing, whether it’s a quick “call Dave” or a complete brainstorming list. Nobody’s fighting corners to fit their words in.

Plus, rectangles are usually cheaper and faster, especially if you’re ordering a ton. They’re easy to pack into kits or ship out without fuss. For day-to-day stuff or when you’re keeping things low-key, they do the job without any drama.

Finding the Sweet Spot

It all comes down to what you’re trying to do. Want something people use every day without thinking twice? Stick with rectangles—they’re reliable, like a good pair of jeans. But if you aim to turn heads, spark a chat, or tie your brand to a big idea, custom shapes are where it’s at. They’re not about being practical—they’re about being memorable.

One thing to watch: even with custom shapes, you’ve gotta keep it usable. A shape that’s too wild might look cool but end up useless if there’s no room to write. We always nudge clients toward designs that balance the fun with the functional—think rounded edges or wide shapes that still give you space for notes.

How We Can Help

We’ve got a stack of options to make your sticky notes fit your vibe. Want a custom shape that screams your brand? We’ll whip up something like a car for a dealership or a paw print for a pet shop. Do you prefer the trusty rectangle? We also have those in all sorts of sizes and colours. Our team’s here to hash out what’ll work best, whether it’s a one-colour logo or a full-on design, and we’ll get them to you quickly, anywhere in Australia, without breaking your budget.

Know Your Goal

It’s pretty simple: rectangles are for when you need something that works, no fuss. Custom shapes are for when you want to leave a mark—think of events, campaigns, or gifts that make people go, “Huh, that’s neat.” Either way, sticky notes are good at keeping your brand around, right where people are thinking and planning. Choose the shape that fits your story, and you’re golden.

Ready to mix it up? Swing by custom shaped sticky notes for events range and let’s find something that makes your brand impossible to forget.