How to Choose the Right Acrylic Riser for Your Setup

Whether you're setting up a buffet, product showcase, or event display, acrylic risers are a simple yet powerful way to bring structure, height, and elegance to your presentation. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes acrylic risers such a popular choice, how to use them effectively, and what to look for when selecting the right one for your needs. We’ll also answer common questions to help you make an informed decision for your next event.

What Is an Acrylic Display?

An acrylic display is a structure made from clear or colored acrylic sheets, used to elevate or showcase objects in a clean, modern way. These displays include risers, trays, stands, and boxes—frequently seen in:

Catering and buffet setups
Retail stores
Exhibitions
Event styling
Museums and galleries

They’re lightweight, durable, and offer an almost invisible frame that makes your products or food the center of attention.

Why Use Acrylic Instead of Glass?

Acrylic has several advantages over traditional glass:

Weight: Acrylic is significantly lighter, making it easier to transport and set up.
Durability: While glass shatters, acrylic is impact-resistant and more forgiving during event setups or breakdowns.
Clarity: High-quality acrylic is as clear as glass but won’t yellow over time.
Safety: In busy or public spaces, acrylic is a safer choice as it doesn’t break into dangerous shards.

These qualities make it a top choice for event professionals and caterers who value both form and function.

Why Are Acrylic Displays So Expensive?

Acrylic displays may seem pricier than other materials, but here's why they’re worth the investment:

Material Quality: High-grade acrylic has a crystal-clear finish and excellent strength.
Manufacturing Precision: Custom cutting, flame-polishing, and hand assembly all add to the cost.
Aesthetic Value: Acrylic lends a high-end, minimalistic look that elevates the overall presentation.
Longevity: Unlike cheap plastics, premium acrylic lasts through repeated use.

At Plinths New York, we use 5mm and 6mm premium acrylic in our collections to ensure long-term performance and elegant styling.

How to Use Acrylic Risers?

Acrylic risers add height, balance, and flow to any surface layout. Use them to:

Elevate dishes in a buffet to create dimension
Display products at varying heights in retail or trade booths
Create photo-ready setups for dessert tables, canapés, or floral centerpieces
Organize space on countertops or shelves without visual clutter

Tip: Use risers of different heights to guide the eye and make your layout more dynamic.

How Much Weight Can Acrylic Risers Hold?

The load capacity depends on the thickness and design of the riser. On average:

5mm acrylic risers can hold approximately 10–15 lbs per riser when evenly distributed
6mm acrylic risers can hold up to 20–25 lbs, depending on base width and structure

All Plinths New York risers are engineered for event-grade durability, meaning they’re strong enough for catering trays, serving platters, and floral decor.

Does Acrylic Plastic Crack Easily?

No—premium acrylic does not crack easily under normal use. It’s resistant to impact, and much more forgiving than glass. However, proper care is essential:

Avoid dropping heavy objects onto the riser
Don’t overtighten hardware if assembling
Store with soft padding to prevent scratches

All our collections include care instructions and are made to withstand repeated use across events, shoots, and retail setups.

Complete Your Setup with Plinths New York

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the right acrylic riser can transform your entire display. At Plinths New York, we offer a wide range of collections tailored to different styles, budgets, and scale:

White Range Collection: Clean, minimal, and striking—ideal for weddings, showers, and branding events.
Grand Collection: For statement-making displays that demand attention and support heavier items.
Balance Array: A curated, budget-friendly set that delivers maximum versatility without compromising on style.

Every piece is made from event-grade premium acrylic, tested for strength, and designed to deliver lasting elegance. Explore our full range and elevate your next display with Plinths New York.