Size: Our acrylic sheets measure approximately 12x19 inches. However, due to the cutting process, there may be slight variations in size. We will not send out boards that are smaller than 11.75x18.75 inches.
Thickness: We sell acrylics in a variety of thicknesses, because of the manufacturing process, there may be some variations. Calipers can be used for exact thickness of each individual sheet.
|
Acrylic Thickness |
Thickness Variation |
Recommended Focus Height |
|
1/32nd inch/0.8mm |
0.6mm-1mm |
0.8mm |
|
1/16th inch/1.5mm |
1.2mm - 1.7mm |
1.5mm |
|
1/8th inch/3mm |
2.6mm - 3.4mm |
3mm |
|
1/4th inch / 6.3mm |
5.9mm - 6.7mm |
6mm |
Sided: Some of our acrylics are not the same on both sides. Some examples are matte/gloss, glitter/solid, or pattern/no pattern. We try to always call this out in the description and in the listing images. We recommend prior to cutting, that the corner of the masking is peeled back to ensure the correct side is face up.
Masking: To protect the acrylic sheet during shipping, both sides are masked to prevent scratches and damage. While the masking is laser safe, there may be instances where it does not adhere well to the acrylic. It's important to note that any masking that is not properly adhered can pose a fire hazard. For cutting purposes, we actually recommend removing the top masking to prevent scorching, while leaving the bottom masking in place. This will ensure the best results for your projects.
Cut Edges: Our acrylic sheets are sourced from 4x8 foot sheets and then cut down to size using a saw. Although we take precautions to avoid chipped edges and corners, there may be instances where this occurs. Since we are primarily a laser supply company, we assume the acrylic is intended for laser use, and that that the edges will not be utilized. Any chips that may be present will not encroach more than 2mm and should not affect the usable area. If you require perfectly smooth edges for your project, please reach out to us at info@craftcloset.com and we can discuss your specific needs.
Acrylic Types: Our acrylic sheets are available in two types: cast acrylic and extruded acrylic. Most of the acrylics that we offer are cast acrylic. Cast acrylic offers excellent optical properties, is lightweight, and stronger than glass. It is a superior choice for various applications such as trophies, signs, handicrafts, and laser cutting.
Some specialty acrylics that we offer are made through the extruded acrylic process. Our Extruded Acrylic is still a versatile material that offers a range of possibilities for your projects. Extruded acrylic does have a few differences that are important to note. Extruded Acrylic has a lower melting point, so when cutting it, you should take this into consideration. To ensure a clean and precise cut, it is recommended to cut Extruded acrylics at the fastest speed possible that will still go through the material. Once the cutting is complete, it's best to remove the project from the laser immediately and take it apart. Leaving the acrylic sitting in the laser for too long may cause it to adhere back together in certain areas. To prevent this, it's also a good idea to engrave before cutting on Extruded acrylics. Our mirror acrylics are made through the Extruded Acrylic process. They can be engraved and scored on either the back or the front of the acrylic. For engraving or scoring on the back, simply place the mirror side down on the laser bed, reverse the image on the dashboard, and engrave or score the reversed image. Engraving on the back of mirror acrylics will give your project a polished and cleaner look, while engraving on the front will create a frosted dimensional polished effect.
Both our Cast Acrylics and Extruded Acrylics are laser safe and compatible with a wide range of laser machines, including co2 and diode models. It can also be used with routers, Dremel tools, scroll saws, and can be glued, bent with heat, and drilled. If you see the Diode Laser icon on our listings, that acrylic has been tested and can be cut with a diode laser. For specific cut settings for the Glowforge Aura, you can find a list of tested settings here.