Acrylic
A clear, rigid plastic that gives prints a glossy, glass-like finish. Used for lobby signs, photo prints and displays.
Acrylic (also called plexiglass) is clear, rigid and heavy enough to feel like a finished piece. A print behind or on acrylic gets depth and a glossy, almost wet look.
Common setups
- Second surface: printed on the back and viewed through the acrylic. The print is protected and the color looks rich.
- Standoffs: metal posts at the corners hold the panel off the wall so it seems to float.
- Clear areas: leaving parts unprinted lets the wall show through.
It scratches more easily than glass, so clean it with a soft cloth and plain water or an acrylic cleaner, never paper towels with glass cleaner.
Put it to work
Related
Rigid sign materials comparedFoam board, Gator board, corrugated plastic, PVC and acrylic side by side: weight, toughness and where each belongs.Clear vinyl and white inkPrinting on clear film lets the surface show through. White ink printed underneath keeps colors bright where you want them solid.PVC boardA solid, smooth plastic sheet that holds up indoors and out. Common for wall signs and trade show counter fronts.
