Masking Quality Explained

Value vs Premium

Our acrylic panels usually come with a high quality protective paper or plastic film. But in some cases acrylic sheets can arrive to us with a wrinkled or creased film.

In an attempt to save resources and to pass on savings, we have incorporated an option whereby you can choose either:

1) Value – Masking may be wrinkled  or
2) Premium – Masking is wrinkle free

It is important to note that both of these options are the same price, however the value option has a credit system in place whereby if your order contains sheets with wrinkled paper/film, you’ll be issued a store credit for each sheet. The credit table can be seen below. This credit system is possible as it passes on savings generated by the fact we are not having to reapply films to the sheet.  This is perfect for customers who prefer to remove the protective layer themselves prior to machining, engraving or cutting. 

In most cases we recommend customers choose the Premium option as working with a wrinkle free and consistently adhered film is much easier. The Value option is best suited to a smaller niche of customers. 

Credit Vouchers can be for any future orders and you’ll get them via email. If you have an account setup, these will also be automatically available upon checkout.

Credit Table – Price Per Sheet

FAQs

Q) What is the best way to work with wrinkled paper?
A) We would recommend that you remove the wrinkled sections of protective film before cutting. By removing the paper, you are removing any issues that it may cause (flame/residue marks from vapour when cutting etc). If you run a Trotec laser where the air is blown across the cut, or if you haven’t cut acrylic with the film removed , then it’s advised to choose the premium option of our acrylic.

Q) When choosing the Value option, how likely is it that I receive products with a winkled protective masking?
A) It depends on what you order. Eg White, Clear, Blue, Red, Magenta, Blue, Purple, Grey, Turquoise, Green, Frosted and many of our glitter range usually have very good consistent masking with very few winkles if any. The remaining range of Matte/Gloss colours including pinks, pastels have a higher chance.  

Q) Is there any compensation if I receive wrinkled masking?
A) Yes, as we pack a value order we’ll keep track of any sheets added with wrinkled masking and will issue you a credit voucher for use on your next order (table above). The affected area will need to be greater than 10% of the sheets area.

Q) Why do this? Some may say its overly complicated 
A) We wanted to be transparent and to provide choice to our customers, especially ones that may already remove the protective layer before they cut or engrave. This gives them the best value.

Q) How big does the masking imperfection need to be in order to be considered wrinkled/creased?
A) As a general guide, anything effected area bigger than 10% of the sheets area will get a credit applied.  

Example of Premium Masking

Example of Creased Paper – Eligible For Credit

Example of Wrinkled Paper – Eligible For Credit

Example of Minor Wrinkle <10% of Sheet – Not Eligible For Credit

Our acrylics are carefully  stored and we do handle every sheet with care