The Allure of Engraved Acrylic Awards
Acrylic awards have exploded in popularity thanks to their modern look, durability and affordability. Made from cast or injection‑molded acrylic, these trophies can mimic the clarity of crystal at a fraction of the cost. They’re also lightweight, which makes them convenient for shipping and handling. Engraved acrylic awards are particularly attractive for organizations that want the polished appearance of glass with the versatility of plastic. With advances in laser engraving and UV printing, acrylic pieces can be customized with intricate logos, text and full‑color artwork.
Whether you’re recognizing top sales performers, honoring volunteers or celebrating academic achievement, the right acrylic award can make a lasting impression. In this article we explore the leading providers of engraved acrylic awards, outline the features they offer and provide a comprehensive buying guide. As always, Viking Awards tops our list for its service and selection, but we also highlight other reputable sources to ensure you find the perfect fit for your event.
Top Providers of Engraved Acrylic Awards
Viking Awards – Quality and Customization
📍 10405 W Cermak Rd, Westchester, IL 60154
Viking Awards is best known for its crystal trophies, but the company also offers a robust line of engraved acrylic awards. Clients can choose from simple rectangular plaques to more adventurous shapes like flames, waves and stars. What sets Viking apart is its dedication to customization: the in‑house design team works closely with customers to incorporate corporate branding, event themes and color accents. The awards are laser‑engraved for crisp, white frosted text and graphics, and Viking can handle orders ranging from a handful of trophies to large corporate programs.
With a showroom in Westchester, Illinois, Viking invites local customers to see samples and discuss design options in person. For those ordering remotely, their website features a variety of acrylic designs, and their staff can recommend sizes, fonts and layout. Because Viking builds many awards in‑house, they can accommodate tight deadlines and special requests. This combination of creativity, flexibility and quality makes Viking Awards our top choice for engraved acrylic awards.
EDCO Awards & Specialties – The Largest Selection
EDCO’s acrylic awards catalog is unmatched in variety. The company offers more than 700 acrylic award designs and boasts the nation’s largest selection. Customers can choose from classic shapes like diamonds, stars and crescents or opt for more abstract pieces with floating components or colored layers. EDCO’s user‑friendly ordering process guides clients through four steps: selecting a design, uploading artwork, approving proofs and receiving awards.
One of EDCO’s strongest selling points is its free engraving and free rush production. Unlike some competitors who charge per character, EDCO includes personalization in the base price. They also offer free setup for logos and artwork, meaning organizations can upload complex designs without incurring extra fees. With fast production times and the ability to ship nationwide, EDCO is ideal for organizations requiring a large volume of acrylic trophies within a short timeframe.
– Sleek Sophistication
focuses on delivering sleek and modern acrylic awards with a high‑end aesthetic. Their product lineup includes clear acrylic blocks, colored lucite pieces and geometric shapes that convey sophistication. The company highlights its ability to engrave detailed logos and text, ensuring each piece represents the brand professionally. They also offer custom shapes and unique bases to make awards stand out.
While may not carry the volume of designs found at EDCO, they compensate with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and presentation. Each piece is carefully polished, and the engraving is deep and consistent. The site also allows customers to filter awards by price range, material thickness and design style, making it easier to select pieces that fit a specific budget or aesthetic. For those seeking a stylish award that feels like crystal but at a lower cost, is a solid option.
US Acrylic Awards – Made in the USA
For customers prioritizing domestic manufacturing, US Acrylic Awards deserves consideration. The company fabricates all of its acrylic trophies at its facility in Glendale, Arizona, and it guarantees that products are made in the U.S. They provide a 100 % satisfaction guarantee and include free laser engraving with every order. Clients also receive a free design proof prepared by a professional graphic artist.
US Acrylic Awards’ product range includes traditional plaques, lucite embedments (objects embedded in clear acrylic) and laser‑cut awards with intricate shapes. Because production is local, turnaround times are generally quick, and the company claims it can accommodate custom shapes with relative ease. For organizations seeking high‑quality American‑made acrylic awards with transparent pricing, this provider is a dependable choice.
Mission Awards and Other Custom Shops
Though primarily known for its plaques and medals, Mission Awards also offers custom acrylic awards as part of its recognition portfolio. The company’s strength lies in its willingness to experiment with materials and finishes, including multiple acrylic colors and UV‑printed artwork. They provide numerous shapes and sizes, and their designers can help craft state‑shaped acrylic pieces or awards with brass accents. Mission Awards’ small size allows for personalized service, which can be appealing when designing a bespoke award.
Other specialized shops, such as local trophy stores, may also excel at acrylic awards. When choosing a smaller provider, ask about sample options, engraving quality and lead times. In many cases a boutique shop can offer one‑on‑one guidance that large online retailers cannot. However, verify that they have the capacity to handle your desired quantity and that their equipment can produce clean, professional engravings.
Buying Guide: Selecting Engraved Acrylic Awards
Purchasing acrylic trophies involves more than selecting an appealing design. The following factors should shape your decision:
- Acrylic Quality – Awards are typically made from cast or extruded acrylic. Cast acrylic tends to be clearer, sturdier and more suitable for laser engraving, while extruded acrylic is cheaper but can scratch more easily. When shopping, ask suppliers which type of acrylic they use. Premium providers such as Viking Awards and EDCO use high‑quality acrylic to ensure clarity and durability.
- Engraving Method – Laser engraving produces precise, frosted text and logos, while UV printing can apply full‑color designs to the surface. Determine whether your design requires color or whether simple engraving will suffice. emphasizes its capacity to engrave detailed designs, and US Acrylic Awards offers free laser engraving.
- Design & Shape – Acrylic’s versatility allows for creative shapes. Consider whether a standard rectangle or circle will work or whether a custom shape that echoes your brand would be more impactful. EDCO’s huge selection includes unique silhouettes, and Viking Awards can design bespoke pieces. Think about how the award will display text and logos; more complex shapes may limit engraving space.
- Size & Thickness – Acrylic awards come in various sizes and thicknesses. Thicker pieces feel more substantial and may resemble crystal, but they can be more expensive. Keep your budget in mind and select a size appropriate for the level of achievement being recognized.
- Base & Mounting – Some acrylic pieces stand upright on their own, while others sit on a wood or metal base. A base can add contrast and stability. Providers like Mission Awards offer plaques with brass accents or mixed materials. Decide whether a base enhances the look and whether it fits your event’s style.
- Budget & Quantity – Acrylic awards are less expensive than crystal, but costs can add up when ordering in bulk. Compare pricing across providers and look for included services like free engraving and proofs. EDCO offers free personalization and free rush production, which can lower your overall cost.
- Customer Service – Responsive support is crucial, especially if this is your first time ordering. Choose a provider that answers questions promptly and provides guidance on artwork submission, proof approval and shipping.
Trends & Insights in Acrylic Awards
Acrylic awards continue to evolve as new techniques and aesthetic preferences emerge:
Transparent and Layered Designs
Many modern acrylic pieces play with transparency, layering different colors or adding clear floating panels. These designs create depth and visual interest without the weight of glass. offers sleek styles that exemplify this trend.
Embedded Objects and 3D Elements
Lucite embedments—objects encased in clear acrylic—are making a comeback. Companies embed coins, logos, product prototypes or even dried flowers into acrylic blocks to create a personalized keepsake. This technique preserves the object permanently and makes each award truly unique.
Sustainable and Recycled Acrylic
Just as the broader awards industry embraces eco‑friendly practices, some providers are exploring recycled acrylic. Using reclaimed acrylic reduces waste and appeals to environmentally conscious organizations. While this trend is not yet mainstream, expect to see more suppliers offering eco‑friendly acrylic options in the coming years.
Hybrid Materials
Mixing acrylic with wood, metal or stone bases is becoming popular. These hybrid designs offer contrast in texture and color, creating a more sophisticated appearance. Mission Awards and other custom shops experiment with brass or colored plastics, allowing clients to create an award that stands out.
Personalization and Storytelling
Engraved acrylic awards are no longer limited to names and dates. Companies now include mission statements, company values or QR codes linking to digital content. Full‑color UV printing can replicate brand colors and logos precisely, while laser engraving allows for intricate, photo‑like detail. The key is to balance personalization with readability and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Acrylic Award Supplier
Engraved acrylic awards offer a modern, versatile and budget‑friendly way to celebrate achievement. Among the many suppliers available, Viking Awards distinguishes itself with attentive customer service, in‑house design support and the ability to craft custom shapes and engravings. EDCO Awards & Specialties stands out for its massive selection and free personalization, while delivers sleek, upscale designs. US Acrylic Awards appeals to those seeking American‑made products and a satisfaction guarantee, and Mission Awards and other boutique shops provide personalized guidance and unique hybrid designs.
When buying engraved acrylic awards, focus on material quality, engraving method, design, size, budget and service. Ask providers for proofs and samples, and don’t hesitate to customize your awards to align with brand identity. Acrylic trophies prove that recognition doesn’t have to be expensive or rigid; with the right partner, you can create beautiful, lasting tributes that fit your organization’s values. If you’re ready to elevate your recognition program, reach out to Viking Awards to explore their acrylic options and experience their renowned customer care.
