Material guide
Acrylic laser cutting cost
Acrylic quotes should include sheet allocation, waste, protective masking, test cuts, machine time and finishing work. The visible part is rarely the whole cost.
Cost lines
- Sheet or partial-sheet allocation.
- Waste from layout, offcuts and failed pieces.
- Cut time and setup time.
- Masking, cleaning, polishing or flame-finishing where relevant.
- Packaging for fragile pieces.
Worked example
| Line | Example |
|---|---|
| Acrylic allocation | USD 18 |
| Waste allowance | 20% = USD 3.60 |
| Machine time | 22 minutes at USD 45/hour = USD 16.50 |
| Setup/labor | 18 minutes at USD 28/hour = USD 8.40 |
The quote floor before margin is already USD 46.50, and that is before fees, packaging or rush risk.
FAQ
Why is acrylic waste important?
Clear and colored acrylic often leaves unusable offcuts. If waste is not priced, the shop absorbs it.