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Guide

Acrylic Invitations Guide: Clear, Frosted, Black or White (and How to Care for Them)

By Lorena Flores · · 3 min read

Acrylic invitations have become a favorite for weddings and quinceañeras because they feel sturdy, catch the light, and many guests keep them as a keepsake. But not all acrylic looks the same. Here are the four finishes we work with, which one suits your event, and how to care for and mail them.

The four finishes

FinishHow it looksBest for
ClearGlass-like; whatever is behind it shows through.Modern weddings, floral and gold designs, photos on colored tables or fabric.
FrostedMatte and translucent, soft to the touch.Romantic, delicate styles; hides fingerprints and lets the text stand out.
BlackGlossy and opaque, with lots of contrast.Evening events, gala themes and gold or silver designs.
WhiteOpaque and clean, like a card but rigid.Classic designs, baptisms and First Communions, pastel palettes.

Each invitation in the shop shows which finishes it comes in. When you pick one, the preview changes so you can see your design on that color.

How are they printed?

We print directly on the acrylic with UV ink, which cures instantly under ultraviolet light and bonds to the surface. Gold-tone details add the elegant touch. On black acrylic, text uses light or gold tones so it reads perfectly; the preview shows you before you buy.

How to choose a finish

  • Think about the light. In dim venues, black and white read best; outdoors or in daylight, clear really shines.
  • Think about photos. If you'll photograph the invitations on flowers, fabric or the envelope, clear lets that background show.
  • Think about your colors. Black and gold for a gala; white or frosted for pastels.
  • Still unsure? Pick the design and switch finishes in the preview; you'll know in seconds which one you love.

See every design in acrylic invitations, or go straight to acrylic wedding invitations and acrylic quinceañera invitations.

How to clean them without scratches

  • Remove dust first by blowing it off or using a hair dryer on cool, without rubbing.
  • Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth. For smudges, dampen it with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
  • Wipe gently without scrubbing over the print, then dry with another soft cloth.
  • Don't use ammonia glass cleaners, alcohol, vinegar, paper towels or abrasive sponges: they cloud and scratch acrylic.

How to store and display them

Store them flat, separated with tissue paper or in their envelopes, away from direct sun and heat. Many families display one in a standing frame or on a small easel as a keepsake of the day.

Mailing acrylic invitations

An acrylic invitation is heavier and more rigid than a paper one, so the post office handles it differently:

  • Assemble one complete invitation and weigh it at the post office before buying all your stamps. Postage goes up with weight.
  • Because it's rigid, USPS usually charges a nonmachinable surcharge. Ask your post office for the exact price.
  • Use a padded or cardboard-backed envelope to protect it, and ask for it to be hand canceled.
  • If you'd rather not risk it, hand-deliver them to close family or mail only a paper notice card.

Check how far ahead to order and mail in our when to send invitations guide.