Which is better between canvas prints and acrylic prints is a question that is so often discussed. These two print types have their similarity and differences. They are both tremendous representations of wall art and each has its unique qualities and styles. Both canvas and acrylic prints have their weaknesses and strengths. The choice of which print type to use depends on the image, your budget, your personal preference, and taste. Before we go on to look at the difference between these two print types, let’s first discuss them briefly.
Understanding Canvas Prints
Canvas prints are made by applying an image onto a cotton or polyester canvas surface that is then stretched across a frame. The stretching process causes the canvas to wrap around the frame. If the canvas is not stretched properly, it could bubble down the line. The high-quality nature of the wood and material used throughout this process ensures that the canvas and frames don’t bend out of shape over time. To protect the printed canvas from heat and sunlight, UV laminate is applied. The laminate protects the canvas prints from scratches that can occur from moving the prints around. It also provides water damage protection when the dust is being cleaned off the canvas using a moist cloth. The high quality of UV laminate applied can also showcase the contrast of colors within your print, adding quality and vibrancy.
Understanding Acrylic Prints
Also known as glass prints, acrylic prints are different from canvas prints. They are made by printing the image onto high-quality photographic paper. The print is sandwiched between two 5mm diamond polished acrylic sheet. The back of the acrylic sheet can be transparent, black, or white, depending on the style of the image. To give it an added visual depth, aluminum standoffs are used to attach an acrylic frame to the wall.
There are two methods to have your custom image on acrylic prints. One involves printing directly onto the acrylic surface and sealed with good quality back coating. The second method, known as face mounting, involves printing the image on a photographic sheet of paper, which is then placed between two acrylic sheets. Before being sealed, an acrylic print is first sprayed with air. This is done to ensure that all speck of dust is removed from the surface of the image, so that the acrylic is not damaged once it has been sealed. The two methods discussed above of having your image on acrylic prints result in an image of great visual depth. However, the face mounting method provides a greater striking presentation and vibrancy and is far less prone to fading over time. The quality of your acrylic print, no matter the method used depends on the printer you work with. A printer that has the experience of the material being used will give you the best quality acrylic print.
How both Prints Compare
Both canvas and acrylic prints are great forms of wall art, suitable for interior and office designs. Their modern and trendy design makes them catchy. They both have their uniqueness and individual qualities. Depending on your preference, you can decide which of these print types to work with. Differences between canvas and acrylic prints can be seen in the following:
1. Pricing:
Acrylic is a premium print which is more expensive than canvas printing. On the whole, acrylic prints provide a more durable and vibrant outcome. The sharpness is far more pronounced, hence the high cost. To get a well-styled image and still save money, printing on canvas is the way to go. Canvas prints are economical and cost about half acrylic printing costs.
2. Durability:
Both are long-lasting, but acrylic print provides more protection and longevity. Their surface strength makes them resistant to scratches and shatters. Also, the UV coating prevents them from being damaged by heat and sunlight. Canvas prints are superior in terms of being light, so damage is minimized. Although the wraps make canvas print splash-proof and protected from sunlight too, acrylic printing is the best option in terms of durability.
3. Uniqueness:
Though not well pronounced as canvas, acrylic print is a lot more unique. They offer a stand-out presentation when used to display images since the prints are more detailed.
4. Appearance:
Because of their textured finish, canvas print gives a more traditional and authentic look. Canvas printings are more popular choices when it comes to interior design, offering an easy and cost-effective way to display prints. On the other hand, acrylic prints offer a sleek and modern look and are mostly used in commercial environments. Appearance is a matter of preference; nonetheless, the acrylic print looks more impressive.
5. Color Sharpness:
Where sharpness is concerned, acrylic prints trumps canvas. As has been mentioned, acrylic prints enhance image vibrancy. The reflective surface of acrylic prints limits the amount of light passing through the prints, which in turn ensures image colors can maintain their deep and rich colors. With canvas printing, more color needs to be added to ensure the best ink coverage. Some details can be lost here.
6. Transportability:
Canvas prints are much easier to move around as compared to acrylic prints. This is because they are a bit lighter. Acrylic prints are expensive to ship because they are heavy.
7. Versatility:
Because they are glare-free, just about any image works well on a canvas print. Their lack of frame makes them blend well into any style and environment. With acrylic prints, frames need to match the decoration theme of the home or office.
Conclusion
There is no winner between canvas and acrylic prints. Both have their place and their superiority. The choice of which of the two prints to use depends on individual preference. Just for their endless appeal and ease of fixing to the wall, and just about anywhere, some prefer the older fashioned canvas prints. For a trendier and modern look in new homes and offices, people prefer acrylic prints. Acrylic art looks great where there is a great deal of natural light as it reflects and absorbs it to produce a really shiny and dynamic-looking piece of the image. Whichever your preference is between canvas and acrylic prints, be sure you pay proper attention to the variables discussed above.