{"id":120,"date":"2020-08-12T17:20:29","date_gmt":"2020-08-12T21:20:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.frameiteasy.com\/blog\/?p=120"},"modified":"2025-09-04T11:46:02","modified_gmt":"2025-09-04T15:46:02","slug":"acrylic-vs-glass-picture-frame-cover","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.frameiteasy.com\/learn\/acrylic-vs-glass-picture-frame-cover\/","title":{"rendered":"Acrylic vs Glass: Which is the Best Choice for Picture Frames?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

What is the best material to protect, preserve, and showcase your framed art & photos?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Gold<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ve selected the custom frame<\/a> you want to display your precious artwork or photo, but then you realize something: There are choices between acrylic or glass for covers, and you want to know which type and variety would suit your needs and price range best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the guide below, we\u2019ll walk you through a few basic steps you should know about acrylic or glass covers for picture frames.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The cover (or \u201cglazing material\u201d)<\/strong> is a key part of any frame– custom or otherwise– as this is what allows you to see your special art or photo inside. Just as the backing material of your frame needs to preserve the integrity of your art, the cover should not only allow you to clearly view it, but also protect it from outside forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Picture Frame Cover Glazing Materials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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There are generally two types of material that make up covers for frames: acrylic or glass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Glass Frame Covers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll more likely find glass<\/strong> (often referred to as \u201cmuseum glass\u201d or \u201cconservation glass\u201d)<\/strong> at a local frame shop because it is often considered a more \u201cprofessional\u201d material. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Glass, while fragile, is still generally less susceptible to scratching (making it easier to clean), but it can also be significantly heavier than acrylic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For larger picture frames\u2014 over 16\u201d X 20\u201d\u2014 the weight difference between a glass and acrylic cover can be significant, which is why glass is more frequently used for smaller picture frames. (Think of how heavy other common glass objects can be. For example, a glass fish tank will outweigh its acrylic counterpart of the same volume by 4-10 times.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Acrylic Frame Covers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Online framers most often use acrylic<\/strong> to reduce the possibility of damage during delivery. Using glass could create issues with having to replace excessive amounts of damaged products, as well as the possible liability issue; glass is sharp and dangerous when shattered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to price, acrylic can actually be more expensive than glass but offers many advantages. Acrylic is often clearer than glass (which can have a green tint), and due to its lighter weight, acrylic is also more cost-effective to ship.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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