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10 Best Acrylic Size for DIY Vacuum Forms: Top Picks for 2026!
When it comes to DIY projects, finding the best acrylic size for DIY vacuum forming is essential for achieving fantastic results. Vacuum forming is a process used predominantly in manufacturing and prototyping, allowing users to create custom shapes and designs from plastic sheets. Acrylic is a popular choice in this realm due to its clarity, durability, and ease of use. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 acrylic products available on Amazon that cater to vacuum forming needs in 2026.
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1. Acrylic Sheet – 12″ x 24″ x .118″ Thick
- Made from Top Quality Acrylic: An ultra-clear finish with no cloudiness or scratches, this 1/8” thick cell acrylic will be the perfect material for your crafting projects, business signage and so much more! Each sheet comes with a blue protective film, please make sure to pill them off before using.
- Use with Cricut,Engraver and Power Tools: No melting, scorch marks or burns during engraving. Easily bore holes with a drill or cut with a mitre saw, jigsaw, router, table saw or rotary tools for clean, polished edges.
- Great for Display Cases, Home Décor and Shelving: With so many options, you’ll love this multi-purpose acrylic square! Create see-through birdhouses, acrylic cubes and platforms for retail merchandising and holiday tree ornaments!
- Durable, Weather and UV Resistant: Great for outdoor projects! Stronger than glass panels, so use any place you need the safe, shatterproof plastic panels with the clarity of glass.
- Add to Your Cart Now: With such a versatile material, you’ll be crafting and designing like crazy! So buy several!
This acrylic sheet measures 12″ x 24″ and is .118″ thick, making it versatile for multiple projects. It is crystal-clear, enabling excellent visibility for applications requiring transparency.
Features
- High impact resistance.
- UV resistant, minimizing yellowing.
- Lightweight yet durable.
Pros:
- Easy to cut, drill, and machine.
- Excellent for detailed vacuum-formed projects.
- Affordable price point.
Cons:
- Thinner than some might prefer for larger projects.
- Can scratch easily if not handled carefully.
2. Plexiglass Acrylic Sheet – 24″ x 36″ x .25″ Thick
- ✅High-Quality Thick Clear Sheets : Easy to DIY, cut with laser, power saw , or hand tools. Every 1/8" thick acrylic panel will make an elegant look to any room.
- ✅Performance: Durable, waterproof, chemical, scratch, UV resistant, easy to clean with damp cloth and detergent.
- ✅Material: With an ultra-clear glass-quality finish, excellent transparency. Recyclable Top-quality PET Sheet Panels is Crystal clear, which have an excellent display effect.
- ✅Versatile Uses: Great choice for indoor and outdoor use such as picture frames, craft projects, dust cover, splashboard, laser engraved signage, hobby display cases, art protector, tabletop protector, home décor, shelving, displays and signage for wedding, party, store and more.
- ✅Notes: Covered on both sides with a removable protective film to prevent from scratching. Package contains 2 pcs PET Sheets (24in*36in,1/8 in thick).
A bigger option is the Plexiglass acrylic sheet, measuring 24″ x 36″ and .25″ thick. It is a great choice for larger forms and models.
Features
- Superior optical clarity.
- Weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use.
- Easy to fabricate.
Pros:
- Great thickness for sturdy forms.
- Can withstand the heat of vacuum forming without warping.
- Multi-purpose, ideal for various applications.
Cons:
- Heavier compared to thinner options.
- May be more expensive than other acrylic sheets.
3. Acrylic Clear Plastic Sheet – 12″ x 48″ x .118″ Thick
−$5.00
- Both Side with Protective Paper: 2 piece clear polycarbonate plastic sheet in per package, the dimension of each plastic sheet is approx 8" X 12" X 0.031" / 20cm x 30cm x 0.8mm thick, cover with protective paper on both sides.
- Multipurpose Project Use: These acrylic plexiglass sheets can be used for a range of artistic and professional projects, such as photo frame glass replacement, art protector, plastic canvas, tabletop protector, see-through birdhouses, windows, lighting applications, manipulation, DIY hobbyists models, greenhouse, aquarium, and other handicrafts, fish tank lid, baffle, chicken coop, dust shield, etc.
- High Clear Acrylic Sheet: Weather, and UV Resistant, our transparent acrylic sheets offer superior visual clarity, Stronger than glass panels. The protective paper included.
- Lightweight: Clear acrylic sheet is made from 1/32 inch thick cast acrylic, which means they are lighter in weight and easy to work with. Easy to cut or drill holes through it cleanly without cracking. Clean smooth edges, no worry to get frosted rough edges.
- Acrylic sheet have high chemical, water, alcohol, oil, dilute acid, and high staining resistance. Clean and sanitize the sheets with regular household cleaners and sanitizers.
This acrylic sheet is perfect for those who need a longer size for their projects. Measuring 12″ x 48″, it offers ample area for larger vacuum forms.
Features
- Exceptional clarity and surface finish.
- Easily machinable.
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses.
Pros:
- Longer size is efficient for larger designs.
- High quality makes for clean vacuum forms.
- Affordable pricing for the dimensions offered.
Cons:
- Flexible which may pose challenges when vacuum forming.
- Requires careful handling to avoid scratches.
4. Cast Acrylic Sheet – 18″ x 24″ x .25″ Thick
- Multifunctional Applications: Our plexi glass sheets are perfect for many DIY and professional projects, can be used for everything from displays to support structures to barriers. It can replace wind glass, cover machines, create LED signs, build transparent pet houses, design display cabinets, aquarium covers, and much more. This acrylic glass sheet maintains its integrity and clarity whether used indoors or outdoors, even under intense UV rays and extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Transparent & Durable: Our plexi glass panel is an exceptional alternative to traditional glass. Providing the same clear visual effect as glass, but it is 30 times stronger, 2 times lighter, safer and more durable and easier to process.
- Easy to Cut and Engrave: You can easily process acrylic panels with a laser and cast acrylic glass allows for burr-free cutting and high-contrast white engraving. You can also use CNC machines, table saws, hand saws and other manual tools to cut the sheet to the specific size and shape.
- Package Contents: Each package includes 2 pieces of cast acrylic boards 18x24" (45.7 x 61cm) - 1/8" (3mm thick). The sheet comes with protective paper on both sides to prevent scratches. Just peel off the protective paper before use.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Full product satisfaction is our promise. If for any reason you are not satisfied with our product, please contact us directly. We will take full responsibility for the quality of our product and work to find the best solution for you within 24 hours.
This cast acrylic sheet, measuring 18″ x 24″, provides excellent durability for vacuum forming. Its .25″ thickness is perfect for more demanding projects.
Features
- Excellent weather resistance.
- Optical clarity exceeding standard plastics.
- Easy to work with via cutting, drilling, and shaping.
Pros:
- Strong and impact-resistant.
- High formability makes it ideal for specialized designs.
- Versatile for multiple applications beyond vacuum forming.
Cons:
- Cost may be higher than regular acrylic sheets.
- Heavier weight might deter some makers.
5. Acrylic Clear Perspex Sheet – 24″ x 48″ x .177″ Thick
- High Optical Clarity and Lightweight:12x24 1/4 inch Clear acrylic plastic is a transparent thermoplastic homopolymer that is often colloquially referred to as plexiglass.Along with improved weather and UV resistance, our transparent 1/4 acrylic sheets offer superior visual clarity to make it easier to see through. Moreover, the cast acrylic sheet has stronger repairability,studier but lighter than glass.Every clear plexiglass sheet is covered with protetive films on both sides.
- Practical Applications:This 12x24 acrylic plexiglass sheet 6mm certainly is a great companion with which to do business.The plexiglass sheets can be used for a range of DIY and professional projects, such as laser engraved signage,led light applications,hobby display cases, art projects,sidetabletop protector, home décor,baseplates or platforms for working projects, router base,floating frame,a new basement drain cover,shelves for fridges,aquarium lid,windows doors replacement board and more.
- Economical:This 12x24 premium acrylic sheets are high quality and clear.They can be parts of the little animals' houses,parts for a transparent remote controlled tracked robots.They also can be used for making a control panel adapter for a spa controller.Perfect for CNC viewing windows,shelves for fridges,music stands.For showing kids' imagination, creativity and hands-on ability,the acrylic sheets can be the DIY materials for them.Acturally speaking,the sheets can help you save a sum of money.
- Easy to Cut and High-Quality Cell Cast Design – With no melting point,cutting through our acrylic boards with a battery powered saw,circular saw,table saw,bandsaw,a laser cutter,electric jigsaw, electric drill,heat gun,mitre saw etc, quick and easy for handcrafts and fabrication. The cell cast version offers clean cut edges without burrs, sharper laser engraving, higher resistance to scratch and chemical solvents.
- Excellent Dimensional Stability and Good Package:This 12" x 24" transparency acrylic sheet,6mm thickness is safe, practical, durable and easy to use! Moreover, the clear acrylic sheet will be shipped to you with a protective film cover, assuring you of its excellent condition.Please remove the plastic film to reveal clear acrylic/plexiglass before use.
This clear Perspex sheet is perfect for those who require a substantial area at a .177″ thickness. It’s particularly suitable for those on a budget looking to achieve quality results.
Features
- High clarity, allowing for light transmission.
- Good surface finish reduces the need for additional polishing.
- Lightweight for easy handling.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly solution for extensive projects.
- Easy fabrications such as cutting or bending.
- Excellent for use in less critical applications.
Cons:
- Thickness may not be suitable for more robust requirements.
- Can warp if used incorrectly in certain applications.
6. Acrylic Sheet – 20″ x 30″ x .236″ Thick
- 【High Quality】: Plexiglass Sheet Panels is crystal clear, excellent transparency which have a good display effect. stronger and lighter than glass.
- 【Easy to Cut】: The clear Plexiglass sheets can be easily cut into various shapes by table saw, jigsaw, drill, CNC Engraver, bandsaw, and other hand tools. (Do not use laser engraving).
- 【Wide Application】: These plexiglass sheets can be used for creative DIY occasions like photo/poster frame, drawing,handcrafts, artwork display, Wedding welcome board,house decoration and waterproof application,like table top,protective barriers,shelf,holders,etc.
- 【Protective Films】: Both sides of the plexiglass sheets are covered with protective film to prevent scratches or damage. Please remove the protective film before use.
- 【Safe Packaging Design】: We use shock-absorbing and damage-resistant packaging designs to ensure the safe transport of plexiglass sheets. If you have any questions, please contact us immediately and we will respond within 29 hours.
Measuring at 20″ x 30″, this sheet provides a nice balance between size and thickness at .236″. It is particularly useful for prototyping and displays.
Features
- High impact strength.
- UV stable and resistant to weather conditions.
- Easy to fabricate for custom designs.
Pros:
- Versatile dimensions can accommodate various applications.
- Resistant to both impact and weathering.
- Clear surface allows light transmission with minimal distortion.
Cons:
- Some users may find it heavier than desired.
- Higher price point compared to thinner options.
7. ACRYLITE® Acrylic Sheet – 36″ x 48″ x .220″ Thick
- 【Clear Lucite 36x48" Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet 1/4 inch thick 】: 36" x 48" clear plexiglass sheets made from premium-grade acrylic plexiglass, strong and durable.
- 【Versatile Applications】: These 36" x 48" Clear Lucite Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet 1/4" Thick Board & Panel Ideal for signs, art work, crafts, shelves, tabletop, display stand and holder, cover, machine guards, lids, home decor, painting, display cases, cabinet door, glass alternative, protective barriers, signage, laser engraving, crafting, lighting, fish tanks, replacement windows, cabinet door, plant holder, end and side tables, greenhouse & more picture frames.
- 【Clear Finish 36x48 Clear Acrylic Sheet 6mm thick】: Allows it to blend into any environment, perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
- 【Lightweight & Easy to Work With】: These 36x48 cler plexiglass sheet 1/4 inch thick can be cut, drill, saw, and shape it to fit your needs. Also it can be used for laser engraving, painting, uv digital printing and letter vinyl signs, protector cover for photography and art work
- 【UV Resistant and Light Transmission Properties】: 1/4" thick 36x48 inch clear acrylic sheets great for solar applications, lighting projects, diffuser, windows glass replacement and skylights.
ACRYLITE® is a trusted name in acrylic materials, and this size, 36″ x 48″ at .220″ thick, is ideal for larger vacuum forming projects.
Features
- Premium optical clarity.
- High weather resistance, ideal for outdoor projects.
- Can be drilled, cut, and shaped with ease.
Pros:
- Ideal for professional-grade projects.
- Excellent for producing high-detail items.
- Long-lasting durability ensures prolonged use.
Cons:
- Higher cost can be a barrier for hobbyists.
- Can be challenging to transport given its larger size.
8. Transparent Colored Acrylic Sheet – 12″ x 24″ x .118″ Thick
−$2.00
- 【8 Colors】You will receive 8 translucent colored cast acrylic sheet in different colors, including transparent color, dark blue, orange, yellow, green, red, rose red, pure black, a variety of colors to meet your different DIY needs, the colors are in different brightness The show is different (Note: black is not translucent)
- 【Product Size】Our colored acrylic sheet is about 30 x 20 cm / 11.8 x 7.87 inch (12 x 8 inch), the thickness is 3mm/ 0.118 inch (1/8 inch), you can cut it with cutting tools shape into the shape you want, the color lasts, not easy to fade
- 【Sturdy Material】This plastic sheets for crafts is made of sturdy acrylic, durable and lightweight, strong and durable, with smooth edges, each acrylic sheet is covered with a protective film on both sides to protect the acrylic sheet from scratching during transportation
- 【Easy to DIY】Our acrylic sheets 1/8 thick are made of high quality materials, excellent performance, uniform thickness, very easy to cut, you can use band saw to cut acrylic sheets, you can easily get the shape you want
- 【Widely Used】This acrylic panel can be used for DIY crafts, painting, photo frame glass, counter decoration, display projects and home decor, etc. You can also use for DIY decorative christmas string lights and party decorations
This transparent colored acrylic sheet adds a creative twist to any vacuum formed project. It measures 12″ x 24″ and features a thickness of .118″.
Features
- Vibrant colors that allow for unique designs.
- Excellent clarity and durability.
- Can be glued, cut, and drilled with standard tools.
Pros:
- Perfect for creative projects needing color.
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Versatile for various applications.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for all vacuum forming needs.
- Limited transition of light compared to clear acrylic sheets.
9. High-Impact Acrylic Panel – 24″ x 36″ x .5″ Thick
- MADE IN THE USA WITH OPTICAL CLARITY - Duco’s 1/4 inch thick acrylic sheets are proudly made in the USA and offer glass-like clarity, UV resistance, and long-term durability PLEASE NOTE sheets have a ±1/8 inch cut tolerance
- DURABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT & SHATTER-RESISTANT - These 1/4 inch plexiglass sheets provide the same level of transparency as glass at half the weight and up to 10 times the strength. Ideal for high-impact displays, protective barriers, or architectural glazing
- READY-TO-USE PANEL WITH PROTECTIVE FILM - Each 1/4 inch acrylic sheet measures 24" x 24" and is wrapped in a protective film to prevent scratches during transit, ensuring 6mm acrylic sheet optical clarity
- DIY-FRIENDLY FOR A WIDE RANGE OF PROJECTS - Great for laser cutting, CNC machining, or engraving, these plexiglass sheets 1/4 inch thick are ideal for signs, table protectors, window panes, crafts, displays, fish tank lids, and many other creative applications
- EASY TO CUT OR DRILL - These 1/4 inch acrylic panels are easier to work with than glass and strong enough for load-bearing designs. In addition, they can be cleanly cut or drilled using a table saw, router, CNC, or laser without chipping or cracking
This high-impact acrylic is engineered for durability, measuring 24″ x 36″ with a thickness of .5″. It’s excellent for demanding applications.
Features
- Impact-resistant, ideal for heavy-duty projects.
- UV stable with a crystal-clear finish.
- Can be custom cut to required dimensions.
Pros:
- Exceptional durability in challenging conditions.
- High-quality material suitable for professional use.
- Can support weight better than thinner materials.
Cons:
- Heavier than standard options, which may limit usage.
- Usually at a higher price point, making it less affordable for casual users.
10. Acrylic Sheet – 30″ x 60″ x .118″ Thick
- Made from Top Quality Acrylic,An ultra-clear finish with no cloudiness or scratches, this 1/8” thick cell acrylic will be the perfect material for your crafting projects, business signage and so much more! Each sheet comes with protective film, please make sure to pill them off before using.
- More tool options ,tablesaw, jigsaw, drill, router, or bandsaw is quick and easy. The cell cast version offers clean cut edges without burrs, sharper laser engraving, higher resistance to scratch and chemical solvents.
- allow you to use it in many different ways,Make Poster frame, picture frame, handcrafts,display stands, sound barriers, brochure holders, windshields, table tops, podiums, menu boards, marker boards and anything you like.All you have to do is unleash your imagination and be creative.
- Great for Display Cases, Home Décor and Shelving: With so many options, you’ll love this multi-purpose acrylic square! Create see-through birdhouses, acrylic cubes and platforms for retail merchandising and holiday tree ornaments.
- we carefully checked each piece of acrylic during packaging. If this acrylic board does not meet your expectations, please contact us and we will be happy to resolve any issues.
The last option on our list is a larger acrylic sheet measuring 30″ x 60″. Its .118″ thickness makes it a versatile choice for various vacuum forming projects.
Features
- Laser-cut edges for a professional finish.
- Resistant to scratching and UV rays.
- Light-weight for easy handling and application.
Pros:
- Ample space for larger vacuum-form designs.
- Great quality and value for money.
- Suitable for multiple projects beyond vacuum forming.
Cons:
- May require careful transport and setup.
- Thinner material may not stand up in high-stress applications.
In 2026, ensuring you have the best acrylic size for DIY vacuum forming is easier than ever with these top choices from Amazon. Each product listed caters to different requirements, from budget-friendly options to professional-grade materials, ensuring that no matter your project, there’s a suitable acrylic out there for you.
Buying Guide: Best Acrylic Size for DIY Vacuum Forming
When embarking on a DIY vacuum forming project, choosing the right acrylic size is crucial to achieve the best results. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the ideal acrylic sheets for your needs.
1. Understand the Basics of Vacuum Forming
- What is Vacuum Forming?
A manufacturing process that involves heating a plastic sheet until it’s pliable, then using a vacuum to mold it over a shape or model. - Acrylic in Vacuum Forming:
Acrylic (also known as PMMA or Plexiglass) is a popular choice due to its excellent clarity, weather resistance, and ease of thermal forming.
2. Acrylic Thickness
- Common Thicknesses:
Acrylic sheets come in various thicknesses ranging from 1/16″ to 1″ or more. - Recommended Thickness for Vacuum Forming:
- 1/8″ (3mm): Ideal for most small to medium projects; balances flexibility and strength.
- 1/4″ (6mm): Suitable for more robust applications requiring durability and structural integrity.
- 1/16″ (1.5mm): Best for finer details but less durable; better for small or intricate forms.
3. Sheet Size
- Standard Sheet Sizes:
Acrylic sheets typically come in sizes like 24″ x 48″, 36″ x 48″, and larger options. - Choosing the Right Size:
- Project Dimensions: Ensure the acrylic sheet size is larger than your mold dimensions to allow for trimming.
- Work Area: Consider the size of your vacuum forming setup; ensure you have enough space to handle and heat the sheet.
4. Acrylic Type
- Cast vs. Extruded:
- Cast Acrylic: Offers superior clarity, stability, and easier machining; ideal for high-quality projects.
- Extruded Acrylic: Typically less expensive and offers uniform thickness but may warp or have reduced clarity.
5. Heat Resistance
- Heat Tolerance:
- Consider the heating method you’ll use; make sure the acrylic can withstand the temperatures needed for vacuum forming (typically around 300°F).
- Check for any specific recommendations from the manufacturer regarding heat resistance.
6. Color and Finish
- Clear vs. Colored Acrylic:
- Clear acrylic provides optimal visibility for applications like displays and prototypes.
- Colored acrylic can be used for aesthetic purposes, but make sure the color doesn’t affect your molding process.
- Surface Finish:
- Look for smooth finishes to ensure even heating. Textured finishes may affect the final product quality.
7. Supplier Selection
- Reputable Brands:
Research and purchase from trusted suppliers known for quality acrylic products, like Plexiglas, Acrylite, or local hardware stores. - Bulk Vs. Single Sheets:
If you plan on multiple projects, consider buying in bulk for cost savings.
8. Cost
- Budget Considerations:
Pricing can vary significantly based on thickness, size, and type. Set a budget before shopping to narrow your options.
9. Additional Accessories
- Heating Equipment: Ensure you have the appropriate heating elements (ovens or heat guns) that can evenly heat the acrylic sheets.
- Vacuum Forming Machine: Ensure compatibility with the acrylic thickness chosen.
- Safety Gear: Always wear protective gear while working with heated materials.
Conclusion
Selecting the best acrylic size for your DIY vacuum forming project requires consideration of thickness, size, type, and heat resistance. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision, ensuring a successful and rewarding crafting experience. Happy forming!
