Yes — you can bend acrylic sheet with a heat gun, and it’s one of the most convenient methods for small projects or custom shapes. Acrylic, also known as Perspex or PMMA, becomes flexible when heated to around 140°C–170°C, allowing it to be bent, curved, or shaped easily.
A heat gun is a versatile and accessible tool for DIY, craft, or prototype work. It directs a controlled flow of hot air, letting you heat only the section of acrylic that needs bending.
No need for industrial equipment.
Perfect for straight bends, gentle curves, or small pieces.
Allows precise control over heat distribution.
Portable and affordable for workshops or home use.
This method works best for thin to medium sheets (2–6 mm) and localized bends.
Acrylic sheet (keep protective film on)
Heat gun (adjustable temperature preferred)
Work surface (heat-resistant and flat)
Straight edge or bending jig
Clamps
Gloves and goggles (for safety)
Marker or masking tape (to mark the bend line)
Tip: Work in a ventilated area — heating acrylic releases mild fumes.
Use a ruler and marker to clearly mark where you want the bend to occur.
If you want a perfectly straight fold, place a metal straight edge or wood guide under the sheet along the marked line.
The protective film should stay on during heating to prevent surface scratches.
Clamp the acrylic securely onto your work surface, leaving the section you want to bend hanging slightly off the edge. This allows you to apply even pressure once the material softens.
Tip: Make sure the sheet is stable — vibrations can cause uneven heating or cracks.
Turn on your heat gun and set it to low or medium heat (around 150°C–170°C).
Hold the heat gun 5–8 cm away from the surface.
Move it slowly back and forth along the bend line.
Heat both sides evenly to prevent warping.
For sheets over 4 mm thick, heat for 2–4 minutes until soft.
The acrylic will begin to gloss slightly and lose rigidity — that’s your cue that it’s ready to bend.
Once pliable:
Gently lift the heated edge and press it against your bending form or guide.
Apply steady pressure to achieve the desired angle or curve.
Hold the position for 30–60 seconds until the acrylic starts to set.
Tip: For cleaner results, avoid overbending — acrylic holds its shape well once cooled.
Let the acrylic cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Do not force-cool it with fans or water, as this can cause internal stress or cracking.
Once cooled, the acrylic will retain its new shape permanently.
| Mistake | Result | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Holding the gun too close | Bubbles, scorching | Keep 5–8 cm distance |
| Uneven heating | Warped or twisted sheet | Move heat evenly across bend line |
| Overheating | Yellowing or burning | Use medium temperature |
| Cooling too quickly | Cracks or stress | Let it cool naturally |
| No protective film | Surface damage | Keep film on during bending |
Patience and even heating are the keys to smooth, professional bends.
Use a bending jig for precise angles.
If possible, heat both sides of the sheet evenly.
For thicker acrylic, heat slowly and longer instead of using high temperature.
Test on a scrap piece first to find your ideal heating distance and duration.
For industrial or production work, consider strip heaters or ovens for more consistent results — but for small projects, a heat gun works perfectly.
Kunxin Plastics produces optical-grade acrylic sheets designed for bending, forming, and thermoforming applications.
High heat tolerance for smooth forming without bubbles.
Uniform thickness for even heat distribution.
Excellent optical clarity (up to 92% light transmission).
Available in opal, frosted, matte, and prismatic finishes.
UV-resistant and weather-stable, ideal for indoor and outdoor use.
Kunxin acrylic sheets are widely used in lighting diffusers, signage, architectural décor, and display panels, offering both aesthetic quality and fabrication reliability.
Yes, you can bend acrylic sheet with a heat gun — safely, effectively, and with professional results.
By applying steady, even heat, bending along a marked line, and allowing natural cooling, you can form clean, accurate shapes for various applications.
For superior results and consistent quality, choose Kunxin Plastics’ optical-grade acrylic sheets, engineered to withstand bending and heating while maintaining clarity and strength.
Their precision and durability make them the ideal choice for anyone shaping acrylic into modern, functional, and visually striking designs.
