Facemount or direct print on Acrylic

1. Production Process: The main distinction between face-mounted acrylics and direct print on acrylics lies in their manufacturing methods. Face-mounted acrylics require printing a picture onto photo paper, followed by positioning the paper beneath an acrylic sheet. In contrast, direct print on acrylics entails imprinting the image straight onto the acrylic sheet’s surface.
2. Image Quality: Acrylic face mounts are renowned for their superior image reproduction. They utilize top-notch photographic paper, allowing for the use of premium-grade materials. Additionally, direct printing on acrylics can yield impressive images through flatbed printing techniques.
3. Durability: Direct printing on acrylics tends to be more durable than face-mounted acrylics due to the process involving printing directly onto the acrylic surface, eliminating concerns about potential separation between the paper and substrate.
4. Thickness: Direct printing on acrylics accommodates thicker sheets compared to face-mounted acrylics, resulting in a more substantial and robust product. However, thickness does not alter the appearance of the image.

               
 Facemount Acrylic                                                                     Direct print on Acrylic        

1. UV resistance: Direct print on acrylics typically offers superior UV resistance in comparison to face-mounted acrylics, as the ink is printed directly on the surface, providing enhanced protection against UV rays. In terms of color accuracy, face-mounted acrylics usually outperform direct print on acrylics. This is because the photographic paper used is designed to reproduce colors accurately.
2. Size limitations: Face-mounted acrylics can be created in larger sizes, although this depends on factors such as paper size. Acrylic prints can be produced up to 60-96 inches, as the table on which the acrylic rests during manufacturing may limit the dimensions.
3. Reflection: When compared to face-mounted acrylics, direct print on acrylics have a more reflecting surface. This is due to the ink being printed directly into the surface, resulting in a highly reflecting gloss.
4. Surface Finish: Compared to direct printing on acrylics, face-mounted acrylics typically exhibit a more matte appearance. This is attributed to the matte finish of the photographic paper, which is subsequently mounted behind the acrylic sheet.
5. Direct print on acrylics is more cost-effective than face-mounted acrylics, as it involves a simpler manufacturing process and utilizes fewer materials. Additionally, with no size restrictions imposed by photographic paper, direct printing on acrylics allows for larger dimensions.
6. Durability: Due to the protective acrylic coating, both direct prints on acrylic and face-mounted acrylics boast exceptional durability. However, face-mounted acrylics offer enhanced scratch and crack resistance, thanks to the extra protective layer of acrylic.
7. Lighting: Face-mounted acrylics exhibit greater reflectivity compared to direct prints on acrylics, as light bounces off both surfaces of the dual acrylic sheets utilized in mounting. Anti-glare acrylic can be employed for either option.
8. Application: Printing directly on acrylics is ideal for creating vibrant, large-scale wall displays in interior settings, surpassing conventional prints. The added protective layer shields against UV light-induced fading, making face-mounted acrylics perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
9. Care: Both face-mounted acrylics and direct print on acrylics have their ideal uses: fine art and high-end photography benefit from face-mounted acrylics, while direct print on acrylics excels in signage, displays, and various commercial applications.
10. Production time: Direct print on acrylics can be produced in less time compared to face-mounted acrylics. This is because the production process is simpler and requires less time.
11. Customization: Direct print on acrylics are more customizable compared to face-mounted acrylics. This is because the printing is done directly onto the surface, allowing for more flexibility in the design.
12. Detail: Face-mounted acrylics tend to have better detail reproduction compared to direct print on acrylics. This is because the photographic paper used is of higher quality and can reproduce finer details.
13. Texture: Direct print on acrylics tend to have a smoother texture compared to face-mounted acrylics. This is because the printing is done directly onto the surface, resulting in a smoother finish.
14. Mounting: Face-mounted acrylics require mounting hardware, such as standoffs or brackets, to be installed on the back of the acrylic sheet. Direct print on acrylics can be mounted directly onto a wall or other surface.
15. Weight: Directly printed acrylics tend to be lighter than face-mounted acrylics, as the printing occurs on the surface, yielding a slimmer product.
16. Thickness choices: Direct printing on acrylics offers a variety of thicknesses for acrylic sheets, allowing for increased customization possibilities.
17. Installation: Face-mounted acrylics necessitate a more meticulous installation procedure than direct print on acrylics. The mounting hardware must be accurately installed to guarantee the appropriate support and secure positioning of the acrylic sheet.