Acrylic Glass vs Plexiglass: Which is Best For Your Framing Project?

When it comes to framing your cherished artwork, photos, or memorabilia, selecting the right glazing material is critical for ensuring both protection and aesthetic appeal. The choice between acrylic and plexiglass often sparks debate among framing enthusiasts. While these terms are frequently used interchangeably, they do have nuances that can influence your decision. 

If you're looking for a short answer: acrylic tends to be the better option for most framing needs due to its superior optical clarity, lightweight properties, and versatile protective features. However, plexiglass may be a suitable alternative in specific scenarios. Let’s break down the differences, benefits, and best use cases for both materials.

Understanding Acrylic and Plexiglass

What Is Acrylic?

Acrylic is a transparent plastic material known for its optical clarity and durability. It’s often used as a substitute for glass in framing because it is lighter, less fragile, and can include various coatings like UV protection or anti-glare finishes. Acrylic is a broad category, encompassing multiple brands and grades, such as Lucite and Acrylite.

What Is Plexiglass?

Plexiglass is a brand name that refers to a specific type of acrylic sheet. It shares most properties with generic acrylic but is often marketed as a high-quality option. Essentially, plexiglass is a type of acrylic, but not all acrylic is plexiglass.

Key Differences Between Acrylic and Plexiglass

While acrylic and plexiglass share many similarities, their distinctions come down to subtle factors such as manufacturing process, durability, and cost.

1. Material Composition and Manufacturing

Acrylic can be manufactured using two processes: extruded acrylic and cast acrylic.

• Extruded Acrylic: Less expensive and ideal for projects that don’t require the highest level of clarity or durability.
• Cast Acrylic: Offers better optical clarity, scratch resistance, and uniformity, often found in premium applications like art framing.

Plexiglass is generally made using the cast acrylic process, meaning it typically has higher quality and uniformity compared to lower-grade acrylic products.

2. Durability and Resistance

Both acrylic and plexiglass are far more impact-resistant than glass, but their resistance to scratches and warping can vary:

• Plexiglass tends to be more scratch-resistant due to its high manufacturing standards.
• Generic acrylic may scratch more easily but often comes with coatings to counteract this.

3. Cost

Plexiglass, being a branded and higher-quality material, can cost more than generic acrylic. If you are working on a budget, extruded acrylic may provide a cost-effective solution without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.

Benefits of Acrylic for Framing

Acrylic is a favorite choice among professional framers and art enthusiasts for several reasons:

1. Lightweight and Shatterproof

Acrylic weighs about half as much as glass, making it ideal for large frames or installations that require mobility. It is also shatter-resistant, ensuring your artwork stays safe even in high-traffic areas or during transit.

Shop Picture Frame Glass and Acrylic

2. Customizable Protective Features

Acrylic sheets are available with additional coatings, including:

• UV Protection: Blocks harmful ultraviolet rays, preventing fading or discoloration of your artwork.
• Anti-Glare Coating: Reduces reflections, ensuring your framed piece is visible from any angle.
• Scratch-Resistant Coating: Increases durability and reduces wear over time.

3. Optical Clarity

Acrylic offers exceptional clarity, often appearing as transparent as glass, without the risk of greenish tints that some low-quality glass products can exhibit.

Benefits of Plexiglass for Framing

While plexiglass shares many of the same advantages as acrylic, its standout features make it particularly well-suited for high-value or professional framing applications.

1. Superior Durability

Plexiglass is more resistant to warping and discoloration compared to some lower-grade acrylics. If you are framing items for long-term display, especially in varying environmental conditions, plexiglass offers an edge.

2. Enhanced Scratch Resistance

The high manufacturing standards of plexiglass ensure it is less prone to scratching compared to extruded acrylic, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or professional galleries.

Drawbacks to Consider

Acrylic

• Susceptible to Scratches Without Coatings: Uncoated acrylic can scratch easily, so it may not be suitable for areas with heavy handling.
• Static Attraction: Acrylic tends to attract dust due to static electricity, which can be problematic for delicate materials like pastels or charcoals.

Plexiglass

• Higher Cost: As a branded product, plexiglass is often more expensive than generic acrylic, which can make it less appealing for budget-conscious projects.
• Weight: While still lighter than glass, plexiglass can be slightly heavier than some extruded acrylic options.

Which Should You Choose for Framing?

Choose Acrylic If:

• You want an affordable, versatile, and lightweight solution.
• You need UV protection or anti-glare features for preserving and displaying art in various lighting conditions.
• Your frame will be moved frequently, making shatter-resistance a priority.

Choose Plexiglass If:

• You are framing high-value or professional artwork where durability and optical perfection are paramount.
• The framing environment may expose the glazing to more wear and tear, requiring enhanced scratch resistance.
• Budget is less of a concern, and you’re seeking a premium-grade material.

Tips for Using Acrylic or Plexiglass in Framing

1. Handle With Care

Always wear gloves when handling either material to avoid leaving fingerprints or scratches.

2. Clean Properly

Use a microfiber cloth and a cleaner specifically designed for acrylic to prevent damage or clouding.

3. Opt for UV Protection

If your artwork will be exposed to natural light, prioritize materials with UV-blocking capabilities to avoid fading over time.

4. Match the Material to the Project

For large frames or intricate designs, the lightweight properties of acrylic or plexiglass make them much easier to manage than glass.

Final Thoughts

When choosing between acrylic and plexiglass for framing, the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the value of the item being framed. For most projects, acrylic provides a winning combination of affordability, versatility, and protection. However, if you’re framing valuable or professional artwork, plexiglass may be worth the extra investment for its durability and clarity.

By understanding the differences and evaluating your priorities, you can confidently choose the best glazing material to showcase and protect your treasured pieces for years to come.

Further Reading:

• Glass vs Acrylic for Framing
• Benefits of Acrylic in Framing
• Pros and Cons of Acrylic

Written by Mark Rogers

Mark Rogers is the President and Co-Founder of Frame Destination. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Mark has become a leading authority on framing techniques and best practices, and has earned a reputation for his innovative approaches to custom framing and frame services for photographers and artists.