When you’re ordering perspex cut to size, getting your measurements right the first time is crucial. Inaccurate sizing can lead to wasted material, added costs, and panels that just don’t fit. Whether you’re building a display, installing a screen, or making a DIY project, even a few millimetres off can make a big difference.
Custom Perspex can’t always be trimmed easily after cutting—especially once it’s been shaped or drilled—so clear, accurate measurements will help ensure everything lines up as planned. It saves you time, money, and frustration.
Why precision is especially important for laser cut acrylic and CNC cutting services
If you’re using laser cut acrylic or advanced CNC cutting services, accuracy matters even more. These technologies cut with extreme precision, which means they will follow your measurements exactly—down to the millimetre.
So, if your specs are off, the result will be too. For CNC laser cutting, perfect dimensions also ensure smoother edges, better alignment, and less risk of cracking or tension in the final piece.
Tools You’ll Need to Get the Right Measurements
Recommended tools: tape measure, calipers, notepad, straight edge
To measure properly, it helps to have the right tools on hand. A steel tape measure works well for most flat areas. For more precise readings—especially for small projects—use digital calipers. A notepad or phone is handy for recording exact numbers, and a straight edge or level helps you stay square when measuring longer panels.
These simple tools can make a big difference in how accurately you record your sizes. Measuring in millimetres gives the clearest reading, as most perspex cut to size services prefer metric dimensions.
Tips on measuring for both square and curved spaces
For square or rectangular panels, always measure both height and width in at least two places to make sure the opening is consistent. If you’re fitting into a curved or irregular space, make a cardboard template first.
This will help your provider use CNC laser cutting or laser cut acrylic methods to replicate the shape exactly. Templates are especially useful when ordering cut-outs or complex forms.
Measuring for Internal vs. External Fitting Panels
How to measure when panels sit inside a frame or opening
When a Perspex panel needs to fit inside an opening—like a window frame, divider, or shelving slot—it’s important to measure the tightest part of the space. Then subtract 2–3mm to allow for easy fitting and slight irregularities.
This small gap helps prevent jamming or stress cracks. If the space is perfectly square, great—but if not, this little allowance can save you from forcing the panel in.
Allowing small gaps for thermal expansion and mounting clearance
Perspex can slightly expand or contract with changes in temperature. If you don’t leave room for this movement, the panel might bow, warp, or crack over time. A 2mm gap on each side is often enough to allow natural expansion.
Also, if you’re screwing or mounting the panel, be sure to include those dimensions in your request—especially when using cnc cutting services to pre-drill mounting holes. This makes installation much easier and ensures a clean finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Perspex Cut to Size
Forgetting to measure in millimetres
One of the most common mistakes when ordering perspex cut to size is using the wrong unit of measurement. Most suppliers use millimetres as the standard, so be sure to double-check your figures.
Accidentally providing inches or mixing units can lead to panels that are way off from what you need. Always confirm the measurement unit and be consistent when writing them down or sending them to your supplier.
Rounding up too much or not accounting for material thickness
It might seem harmless to round up your measurements—but with Perspex, precision matters. Rounding can cause panels to be too large, especially for tight-fitting spaces.
Also, don’t forget to factor in the material thickness. For example, if you’re building a box or fitting a panel into a slot, the thickness of the laser cut acrylic sheet can affect how everything fits together. Always include both width, height, and thickness in your plan.
When to Use CNC Laser Cutting for Perspex Panels
Benefits of CNC laser cutting for precision edges and custom shapes
When you need high accuracy and clean finishes, CNC laser cutting is the way to go. It delivers ultra-precise results, whether you’re ordering straight cuts, curves, or detailed patterns.
This method works especially well for professional signage, architectural features, or custom enclosures. You get smoother edges that don’t require sanding, which means your panel is ready to use straight away.
Why smooth cuts are better for display, signage, and fit-outs
If your Perspex panels will be on display—like in a retail store, office, or gallery—smooth cuts really matter. Laser cut acrylic provides clear, polished edges that look great without extra work.
It also ensures tighter tolerances for mounted signage or detailed installs, helping you achieve a clean, professional look without gaps or rough edges. Whether you’re creating a wall-mounted directory or a display box, CNC cutting services make it easy to get the quality finish you’re after.
Sending Your Specs to a Cutting Provider
Formatting your request for cnc cutting services or laser cut acrylic
Once your measurements are ready, it’s important to send them in a clear, well-organised format. Start by listing the dimensions in millimetres, along with the perspex cut to size thickness you need. If you have drawings, include them as PDFs or vector files if possible.
If you’re ordering custom shapes with cnc cutting services or laser cut acrylic, mark out all important details—like curves, angles, or edge treatments. Include any special requests such as rounded corners or pre-drilled holes.
What to include: dimensions, thickness, quantity, and any hole placement
Your order should always include:
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Exact width and height (in mm)
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Thickness of the Perspex sheet
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Quantity of each piece
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Hole positions, sizes, and spacing (if needed)
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Any templates or diagrams for shaped panels
The clearer your information, the easier it is for the supplier to get it right the first time. Most CNC laser cutting providers will confirm your specs before starting, but providing full details upfront saves time and reduces errors.