An aluminium composite panel (ACP) is a rigid 3 mm board made from two thin aluminium sheets with a polymer core. It is flat, lighter than solid aluminium and doesn’t bend in normal use. Artists use it as a painting surface (after roughening and priming), photographers use it to mount photographs, and makers use it for signs and nameplates. In everyday speech, this type of panel is also called “Dibond”, which is a trade mark of one manufacturer; our panels are not that brand’s product.
We are adding to this range right now – the first products arrive in the coming days.
We offer composite panels in ready-made sizes and several finishes.
What can you use a composite panel for?
| What for | Pick |
|---|---|
| Surface for acrylic and oil painting | White panel; roughen the surface and apply gesso |
| Mounting photographs and prints | White or silver panel |
| Signs, nameplates, decorations | Brushed silver, gold or black |
Frequently asked questions
Can you paint on a composite panel?
Yes. Lightly sand the surface, degrease it and apply gesso or primer; you can then paint with acrylics or oils.
How do you cut a composite panel?
Use a fine-toothed hacksaw, or a knife: score one aluminium layer and the core several times along a ruler, snap the panel, then cut through the second layer. The cut edges are sharp, so wear gloves and safety glasses.
Is it the same as Dibond?
Dibond is a trade name of one manufacturer; in practice, the name is used for the whole type of aluminium composite panel. Our panels are aluminium composite panels of the same construction (two aluminium sheets with a core, 3 mm thick), not products of the Dibond brand.
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