How to Print on Perspex: A Complete Guide to Stunning Acrylic Artwork

If you're looking to transform your photos or designs into modern, sleek wall art, printing on Perspex is an excellent choice. Also known as acrylic printing, this method delivers a clean, glossy finish with vibrant colors and depth that stands out in any room. Whether for personal décor or professional display, learning how to print on Perspex is essential to achieving gallery-quality results.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the benefits of Perspex prints and printing methods to design considerations and display tips.

What is Perspex Printing?

Perspex, a brand name for acrylic sheets, is a lightweight, shatter-resistant material with a high-gloss finish. Printing on Perspex involves transferring an image directly onto the back of a clear acrylic sheet using UV-cured inks. The result is a vibrant, long-lasting image with a glossy, glass-like finish.

This technique is popular for:

• High-end photography displays
• Corporate signage
• Modern home décor
• Museum-quality art reproduction

Why Choose to Print on Perspex?

Before diving into the process, here are a few reasons why Perspex printing is growing in popularity:

1. Vivid Colors and Depth

UV printing on Perspex enhances color vibrancy and gives images a unique depth and clarity that paper or canvas cannot achieve.

2. Durability

Perspex is tougher and more resistant to impact than glass. UV-printed images are resistant to moisture, scratches, and fading, making them ideal for long-term indoor and outdoor use.

3. Sleek, Modern Look

The glossy surface adds a professional, frameless finish that fits perfectly in minimalist and modern interiors.

4. Easy Maintenance

Perspex prints are easy to clean—simply wipe with a soft, damp cloth.

How to Print on Perspex: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose the Right Image

High-resolution images (300 DPI or higher) are essential for Perspex prints. Whether it's a landscape, portrait, or abstract artwork, ensure your image is sharp and vibrant for best results.

Pro Tip: Avoid low-quality smartphone images unless taken with a high-megapixel camera.

Step 2: Select Your Perspex Sheet

Acrylic sheets come in various thicknesses (commonly 3mm, 5mm, or 10mm). Thicker sheets give a more pronounced floating effect and depth, while thinner sheets are lighter and more affordable.

Decide whether you want:

• Clear acrylic (most common): Provides a glass-like finish and depth.
• Frosted or tinted acrylic: Offers a diffused look or added color tint.

Step 3: Prepare the File for Print

Prepare your image using professional design software (like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator):

• Adjust image size to match your desired print dimensions.
• Check color settings (CMYK for print, RGB may also be accepted depending on the printer).
• Add a white layer behind the image if printing on clear Perspex to ensure vibrancy.
• Save the file in a high-resolution format like TIFF or PDF.

Step 4: Choose a Professional Printing Service

While DIY Perspex printing is possible, it requires specialized equipment such as a flatbed UV printer. It’s often best to go with a trusted printing service like Custom Canvas Online that offers Perspex printing with professional finishing.

Make sure the printer:

• Uses UV ink technology
• Offers reverse printing (image printed on the back of the sheet)
• Provides mounting and hanging options

Step 5: Printing the Image

The professional printer will:

• Reverse print the image onto the back of the Perspex sheet.
• Optionally add a white ink backing to enhance contrast and prevent transparency.
• UV cure the ink instantly to make it scratch and fade-resistant.

This process ensures the image is protected behind the acrylic and maintains a smooth, glass-like finish on the front.

Step 6: Mounting and Display

There are several ways to display your Perspex print:

• Standoff Mounts: Modern, metallic mounts that keep the acrylic panel floating off the wall.
• Hidden Frame Mounting: An invisible frame behind the print makes it appear like it’s floating.
• Direct Wall Mount: Use adhesive or hanging hooks for smaller prints.

Choose the method that complements your space and ensures secure installation.

Design Tips for Stunning Perspex Prints

• Use bold colors: Vibrant tones pop beautifully on Perspex.
• Consider negative space: Clean, minimalist designs enhance the modern look.
• Go large: Bigger prints make more impact with acrylic’s glossy depth.
• Avoid too much detail in shadows: Darker areas can lose detail when viewed through acrylic.

Perspex Prints vs. Other Printing Methods

Applications for Perspex Prints

Perspex printing isn’t just for art lovers—it’s widely used in:

• Offices and reception areas
• Hotels and restaurants
• Retail displays
• Family photo walls
• Galleries and exhibitions

Whether you’re looking to make a personal memory stand out or enhance your professional space, a Perspex print makes a bold, stylish statement.

Learning how to print on Perspex opens the door to sleek, professional, and long-lasting artwork. With vibrant colors, a polished look, and superior durability, Perspex prints offer a modern alternative to traditional canvas or paper.

If you're looking to transform your favorite photo into stunning wall art, don’t settle for ordinary—choose to print on Perspex and let your images shine with clarity and class.