When it comes to decorating your home or office with wall art, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right medium for your space. Among the most popular options are canvas prints and acrylic prints—each offering distinct aesthetics, textures, and visual impact.
At ASP Fine Arts, we offer both canvas and acrylic prints of our original artworks, and we understand how confusing the choice can be. This blog will serve as a complete guide to help you understand the differences between these two mediums and choose what best suits your space, style, and budget.
Chapter 1: What Are Canvas Prints?
Canvas prints are reproductions of original artworks printed onto canvas fabric, typically made of cotton or a cotton-poly blend. The canvas is stretched over a wooden frame (known as a stretcher bar) or mounted on a board.
Canvas prints are known for their traditional and painterly feel. The texture of the canvas adds depth and character to the image, giving it an almost hand-painted look.
Key Features:
- Matte, textured surface
- Lightweight and easy to hang
- Frameless (gallery-wrapped) or framed
- Excellent for large format art
Chapter 2: What Are Acrylic Prints?
Acrylic prints involve printing a high-resolution image onto photographic paper and then mounting it behind a sheet of clear acrylic (plexiglass). This creates a glossy, modern, and highly vibrant finish with an almost 3D effect.
They are best known for their sleek appearance, depth, and durability, making them ideal for contemporary or minimalist interiors.
Key Features:
- High-gloss, polished surface
- Bold color reproduction and sharp detail
- Durable and moisture-resistant
- Usually frameless or with a hidden mount system
Chapter 3: Visual Appeal—Texture vs. Shine
Canvas prints offer a warm, textured finish that resembles a real painting. The slight grain of the canvas diffuses light and gives the artwork a classic, museum-like appearance. If you love that handcrafted or vintage aesthetic, canvas is your go-to.
Acrylic prints, on the other hand, shine with a glossy, crystal-clear finish that enhances contrast, saturation, and detail. The sleekness of acrylic makes it feel modern and bold, ideal for high-resolution images with lots of color and sharp edges.
Comparison:
- Canvas: Matte texture, subtle and soft
- Acrylic: Glossy finish, bold and vibrant
Chapter 4: Durability and Longevity
Both canvas and acrylic prints are durable, but they differ in their resistance to environmental factors.
- Canvas Prints: Can last for decades with proper care. They should be kept away from high humidity and direct sunlight to avoid fading or warping.
- Acrylic Prints: Extremely durable and moisture-resistant. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or commercial spaces with fluctuating temperatures and moisture.
If you’re looking for long-term wall art in high-traffic or humid areas, acrylic might be the better choice.
Chapter 5: Framing and Display Options
Canvas Prints:
- Gallery wrap (canvas stretched around frame and stapled at the back)
- Can be framed with traditional or float frames
- Lighter and easier to mount
Acrylic Prints:
- Frameless with sleek metal standoff mounts or hidden back frame
- Can also be framed for a more polished look
- Heavier and needs stronger hanging systems
If you want a soft and traditional feel, opt for framed canvas. For a clean, contemporary look, go with acrylic.
Chapter 6: Cost and Budget Considerations
Generally, canvas prints are more budget-friendly compared to acrylic prints. They are easier to produce and transport, and the materials involved are less expensive.
Acrylic prints require high-quality materials, UV-resistant printing, and expert mounting techniques, which increase their price.
Cost Range (approximate):
- Canvas: ₹800–₹5,000+ (depending on size and framing)
- Acrylic: ₹1,500–₹12,000+ (depending on thickness, size, and finish)
If budget is a key factor and you want beautiful art for a lower price, canvas prints are perfect. If you’re investing in statement decor with a luxury finish, go for acrylic.
Chapter 7: Ideal Spaces for Each Type
Canvas prints are perfect for:
- Bedrooms and living rooms
- Hallways and staircases
- Offices with warm or rustic decor
- Boho, traditional, and farmhouse interiors
Acrylic prints are ideal for:
- Modern living spaces
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Commercial spaces, galleries, hotels
- Minimalist, industrial, or high-gloss interiors
Choosing the right medium also depends on how the space is used. Canvas adds warmth, while acrylic adds polish and drama.
Chapter 8: Maintenance and Cleaning
Canvas Prints:
- Dust gently with a soft cloth or brush
- Avoid moisture and chemical cleaners
Acrylic Prints:
- Can be wiped with a damp microfiber cloth
- Avoid abrasive or ammonia-based cleaners
Acrylic prints are easier to clean and maintain, especially in high-traffic or messy areas.
Chapter 9: Artistic Reproduction Quality
Both mediums can reproduce art beautifully, but the results vary:
- Canvas: Great for painterly artworks, textured brushstrokes, and softer tones
- Acrylic: Best for detailed artworks, bold graphics, photography, and contrast-rich paintings
At ASP Fine Arts, we ensure color-matched, high-resolution printing for both mediums, retaining the integrity of the original artwork.
Chapter 10: Personal Taste and Artistic Intent
Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal style and how you want the art to feel in your space.
- Want an artwork that blends with your cozy, organic home? Choose canvas.
- Want a bold, eye-catching centerpiece that looks ultra-modern? Go for acrylic.
At ASP Fine Arts, we’re happy to guide you through the selection process to ensure you get the best medium for your space.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each medium has its strengths:
| Feature | Canvas Print | Acrylic Print |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Finish | Matte & Textured | Glossy & Vibrant |
| Durability | Moderate | High |
| Budget-Friendly | Yes | Less so |
| Aesthetic | Classic, Warm | Modern, Bold |
| Best For | Cozy, Artistic Spaces | Sleek, Modern Spaces |
We recommend evaluating your interior style, lighting, usage of space, and personal preference before making your choice.
How ASP Fine Arts Helps You Decide
We offer side-by-side previews of our artworks in both canvas and acrylic formats so you can compare before you buy. We also provide:
- Size recommendations based on wall dimensions
- Custom framing and mounting options
- Expert guidance on care and maintenance
Whether you’re looking for a serene landscape for your bedroom or a bold statement for your office, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Conclusion
Art is personal, and so is your space. Whether you go with a textured, traditional canvas print or a sleek, high-impact acrylic print, the key is choosing what resonates with your style and environment.
At ASP Fine Arts, we offer premium-quality prints in both mediums made from our exclusive in-house artwork. Browse our gallery and transform your walls with art that speaks to you—your way.
Still not sure? Reach out to us for personalized advice. We’re happy to help!
