Polystyrene Sheet is a rigid plastic material used as a low-cost alternative to glass in picture framing, glazing, and protective covers. While it is lightweight and shatter-resistant, it has limitations in terms of scratch resistance and archival quality.

Uses in Art and Framing

Glazing for picture frames as an economical substitute for glass or acrylic.
Protective covers for posters, prints, or artwork during shipping and display.
Temporary or budget-friendly framing solutions in retail or classroom settings.

Properties

Lightweight, making it easy to handle and transport.
Shatter-resistant, reducing the risk of injury or damage compared to glass.
Prone to scratching; surface requires care during handling and cleaning.
Non-archival; may release chemicals over time that could affect sensitive artwork.
Rigid but less optically clear than glass or high-quality acrylic.

Advantages

Cost-effective and widely available.
Lightweight and easy to cut to custom sizes.
Safer than glass in environments where breakage is a concern.

Limitations

Not scratch-resistant; requires protective handling and proper cleaning materials.
Non-archival; may interact with certain inks, pigments, or adhesives over time.
Lower optical clarity compared to glass and premium acrylic.
Can warp under heat or high humidity.

Polystyrene Sheet

Polystyrene Sheet

Uses in Art and Framing

Properties

Advantages

Limitations

Related Terms