About acrylic

Acrylic is a substrate with a glossy finish, perfect for a sophisticated, high-tech look. Acrylic is a plastic product that can be heated to form boxes or holders for brochures, or a sign and easel all in one.

Other applications include the following:

• Point of purchase sales
• Menu boards
• Directional and informational signage
• Retail signage
• Trade shows
• Showroom signage
• Office buildings
• Corporate environments

Acrylic – What is it?

Acrylic is also known by the brand name Plexiglas. It is an excellent product for the customer who desires a high quality finish. A “3-D” effect (giving the perception of depth to the finished product) can be achieved by using clear acrylic and applying the background Colour to the reverse side.

Because of its glossy nature, acrylic signs may be subject to glare problems. It also scratches easily and can shatter or chip upon impact.

Acrylic is best suited for long-term indoor or short-term outdoor use where protected by an overhang or awning (this does not include the circumstances when acrylic is used in light box signs).

Sizes

Acrylic is available in a variety of lengths, widths, colours and thicknesses.
A full sheet size is generally 1200 x 2400mm, although 3mm and 4.5mm thick material can often be purchased off a roll, meaning a longer sign made from one piece with no joins.

Colours

Acrylic is available in many standard colours, including white, black, red, blue, green, yellow, clear & opal. If a particular shade of a colour is required, we often ‘coat-out’ the face of the acrylic sheet with self-adhesive vinyl, as vinyl is available in literally hundreds of colours. Acrylic can also be spray-painted quite successfully in acrylic-lacquer paint.

When used as a substrate for a back-lit illuminated light-box sign, it is best to use an ‘opal’ finish as this particular product is designed to evenly diffuse the light and give a professional, bright, uniform appearance. ALl illuminated signs should be letterd with a quality translucent vinyl for the same reason. Standard opaque vinyl turns dark and gives a dull colour on illuminated signs, which is why the translucent vinyl is preferred in this application.