My Acrylic Is Warped- What Now?

Acrylic sheets are an incredibly versatile material, but sometimes, they arrive slightly warped or become warped over time. In addition, when diving in to the fun and whimsical specialty or glitter acrylic sheets, there are some that come with inherent warping due to the manufacturing process. Whether from storage, shipping, or production, these curves and bends can make cutting on a laser more challenging. However, with a few strategic steps, you can flatten the sheet and achieve a smooth, warp-free cut. Here’s how we handle warped acrylic at CMB, so you can make the most out of each sheet.

Step 1: Stabilize the Sheet with Scrap Acrylic

The first step in flattening warped acrylic is to secure it on the laser bed. Start by placing small scrap pieces of acrylic vertically along the center of the warped sheet, as this will help create a balanced surface. Then, add a horizontal piece across the middle. This technique adds stability and reduces the warping effect, providing a better base for the laser to work on.

Step 2: Pin It Down with Laser Bed Pins

To hold the sheet in place and ensure it doesn’t shift during the laser cutting process, we recommend using bed pins. These pins we got from Etsy, are essential for holding down the acrylic and preventing any movement during cutting. Insert the pins around the edges of the sheet, effectively pinning down each side until the acrylic sits flat.

Step 3: Refocus the Laser to an “Average Center”

Once the sheet is secured, it’s time to adjust the laser’s focus to account for any remaining unevenness. Using your laser’s focus tool, aim to measure an “average center” of the acrylic sheet. Look for a spot that is roughly halfway between the lowest and highest points of the warped sheet. This spot will act as the average height, ensuring the laser stays at a consistent distance from the sheet during the cut.

Step 4: Begin Cutting

With the acrylic sheet stabilized, pinned down, and the laser refocused, you’re ready to begin cutting! Start the laser, ensuring that you have checked the settings to match your chosen acrylic thickness. As the laser cuts, the pinned sheet should remain firmly in place, resulting in a smooth and accurate finish.

The Result: Perfectly Cut, Warp-Free Acrylic

Once the cutting process is complete, carefully remove the pins and scrap acrylic pieces from the laser bed. You should find a perfectly cut sheet of acrylic, with no signs of warping. This technique ensures that each piece comes out looking clean and professional, ready for your next project.

Final Tips

1. Store Acrylic Sheets Flat – Proper storage is key to minimizing warping. Always store acrylic sheets flat to prevent bends and curves.

2. Consider Sheet Thickness – Thicker acrylic sheets are less prone to warping than thinner ones, so choose a thickness that aligns with your project’s needs.

3. Work Slowly and Carefully – Warped acrylic can sometimes be fragile, so handle it with care throughout the process.

Working with warped acrylic can be a challenge, but with these steps, you can ensure a smooth, flat cut every time. Try this out for your next project and let us know how it goes! Watch this video below or check out our Instagram to learn more!