Acrylic Prints vs. Canvas Prints – A Detailed Guide

In the world of wall decor, there are countless ways to showcase your favourite memories, artworks, or personal photos. But two standout options continue to spark debate among home stylists, photographers, and interior designers: acrylic prints and canvas prints. 

Both mediums offer stunning visuals and unique characteristics—but which one is right for your space? Whether you’re printing a breathtaking landscape, family portraits, or abstract art, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of canvas pictures and acrylic prints, so you can make an informed choice. 

What Are Canvas Prints? 

Canvas prints are made by printing an image directly onto canvas fabric, which is then stretched and wrapped around a wooden frame (also known as a stretcher bar). The texture of the canvas adds a classic, artistic feel to the image—reminiscent of a painting in an art gallery. 

Ideal for family photos, pet portraits, travel shots, or personalised art, canvas pictures are among the most popular wall art formats for good reason. 

Key Benefits of Canvas Prints: 

• Timeless Look: The matte finish and textured surface give your photos a warm, painterly quality. 

• Lightweight & Easy to Hang: No heavy-duty hardware required. 

• Customisable Sizes: Easily order large statement pieces or small collections. 

• Budget-Friendly: More affordable than acrylic or metal prints without sacrificing quality. 

Explore our full range of custom canvas prints here. 

 What Are Acrylic Prints? 

Acrylic prints are ultra-modern and sleek. Your image is either printed directly onto a sheet of acrylic or printed on photo paper and face-mounted to acrylic. This process creates rich, vivid colour with an ultra-glossy finish that appears to pop off the wall. 

Acrylic is known for its depth and brilliance, making it a top choice for high-definition photography, corporate artwork, and luxury spaces. 

Key Benefits of Acrylic Prints: 

• Stunning Vibrance: Colours appear more saturated and sharp, ideal for bold or high-resolution imagery. 

• High Gloss Finish: Reflects light beautifully and adds a premium aesthetic. 

• Durability: Scratch-resistant and moisture-resistant—great for bathrooms, kitchens, and offices. 

• Frameless Look: Clean, modern presentation with no borders. 

Interested in a premium finish? Check out our Acrylic Prints Collection. 

Canvas Prints vs. Acrylic Prints: Head-to-Head 

Here’s a detailed comparison of the two formats based on key factors: 

Feature	Canvas Prints	Acrylic Prints
Finish	Matte, textured	Glossy, glass-like
Appearance	Soft, artistic, traditional	Sleek, modern, vibrant
Durability	Good indoors, not waterproof	High resistance to moisture and UV
Weight	Lightweight and easy to hang	Heavier, requires more secure mounting
Customisation	Wide range of sizes and framing options	More limited, but very polished presentation
Best For	Family photos, art, soft-toned photography	High-res images, landscapes, modern interiors

Both offer excellent image reproduction, but the final choice often depends on your aesthetic preferences and where the print will be displayed. 

When to Choose Canvas Prints 

Go for canvas prints if you’re looking for: 

• A classic or rustic look 

• Soft, natural photo tones 

• A gallery-style wall with family or travel memories 

• Lightweight and easy-to-hang décor 

• A more affordable wall art option 

Canvas prints also pair beautifully in groupings, making them ideal for photo collages or multi-panel displays. 

Pro Tip: Match your canvas pictures with wooden or natural-themed décor for a cohesive, warm interior. 

When to Choose Acrylic Prints 

Choose acrylic prints if you prefer: 

• Bold colours and high-definition clarity 

• A modern, clean aesthetic 

• Sleek interiors or office spaces 

• A moisture-resistant option for kitchens or bathrooms 

• A high-end, frameless finish 

Acrylic also works exceptionally well with black-and-white photography, giving it a striking contrast and depth. 

 How Do They Compare to Metal Prints? 

You may also come across metal prints or custom metal prints, another rising trend in premium wall decor. These are typically printed onto aluminium using dye-sublimation techniques, offering durability and ultra-sharp detail. 

While metal prints offer a more industrial, edgy look, they fall between canvas and acrylic in terms of gloss and visual impact. They’re a strong contender if you’re seeking: 

• Outdoor-ready prints 

• Weather-resistant durability 

• High contrast and metallic sheen 

Metal prints are also incredibly durable, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or commercial settings where style and strength matter equally.  

Discover more about our custom metal prints. 

Final Thoughts: The Right Print for Your Space 

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to wall art. Whether you choose the soft charm of canvas prints or the glossy brilliance of acrylic, it all comes down to your space, your style, and your story. 

If you love cosy, traditional design with a personal touch, canvas pictures are your go-to. If you’re aiming for high-impact visuals in a sleek, modern setting, acrylic delivers unmatched vibrance and clarity. 

Still not sure? You can always reach out to our team at CanvasChamp for guidance, inspiration, and support on choosing the perfect print for your space. 

Your walls deserve more than just decoration. They deserve a story. Start yours with CanvasChamp's wall art collection.