Cardboard vs Plastic vs Aluminium Cut-Outs

Quick comparison

CARDBOARD
Best for: indoor parties, birthday surprises, weddings, memorial displays and affordable short-term use.
Cardboard is the most cost-effective option. It is lightweight, easy to move and ideal when the cut-out will mainly be used indoors. It is not waterproof and should be kept away from rain, damp conditions and prolonged outdoor exposure.

TRIAPRINT PLASTIC
Best for: stronger party props, repeated indoor use and situations where additional moisture resistance is helpful.
Triaprint plastic is stronger and more moisture-resistant than cardboard. It is a practical middle option when you want greater durability without moving to aluminium. Moisture-resistant does not mean waterproof, so it should not be treated as a permanent outdoor sign.

ALUMINIUM
Best for: premium presentations, business displays, exhibitions and longer-term use.
Aluminium is the most rigid and premium option. It provides a professional finish and is well suited to displays that need greater strength and longevity. Because aluminium cannot be folded like cardboard or Triaprint plastic, delivery requirements and costs may differ.

Which material offers the best value?
For a one-day indoor party or surprise, cardboard will usually provide the best value. For repeated use or greater resilience, Triaprint plastic may justify the additional cost. For a premium or professional display, aluminium is normally the strongest choice.

Important delivery information
Free standard delivery is available for folded cardboard and Triaprint plastic cut-outs. Folding leaves visible crease lines, and light assembly is required to attach the rear supporting stand. If you require unfolded delivery, please contact Tanalia before ordering for availability and an oversized-delivery quotation. Aluminium cut-outs cannot be folded and require an appropriate delivery arrangement.

Frequently asked questions

Are cardboard cut-outs waterproof?
No. Cardboard cut-outs are intended mainly for dry indoor use and should be protected from rain and moisture.

Are plastic cut-outs waterproof?
Triaprint plastic is more moisture-resistant than cardboard, but it should not be described or treated as permanently waterproof unless Tanalia confirms that it is suitable for your intended conditions.

Can I use a personalised cut-out outdoors?
Temporary outdoor use may be possible depending on the material, weather and how the cut-out is supported. Wind and rain can damage a cut-out or cause it to fall. Contact Tanalia before ordering if outdoor use is important.

Do cut-outs arrive folded?
Free standard delivery is based on eligible cardboard and Triaprint plastic cut-outs being supplied folded. Visible crease lines remain after unfolding. Unfolded delivery may be available at additional cost.

Which size should I order?
Choose the height that best matches the person, pet or display you want to create. Available options range from 30 cm to 7–8 ft. The final width depends on the proportions of the photograph. The standard maximum included width for one person is 90 cm; wider designs or multiple people should be discussed before ordering.

Which material is best for a business display?
Aluminium usually provides the most premium and rigid finish. Triaprint plastic can be a more economical choice for repeated indoor promotions, while cardboard can work well for short campaigns and temporary displays.

Can Tanalia check my photograph before printing?
Yes. Upload the original, highest-resolution photograph available. Tanalia removes the background, prepares the artwork and sends a preview before printing. Screenshots and photographs downloaded from WhatsApp or social media may become pixelated when enlarged.

Ready to create your cut-out?
Choose a standard personalised cut-out, caricature cut-out, couple cut-out or pet cut-out in the Tanalia shop. If you are unsure which material, size or delivery option is right, contact Tanalia before ordering and the team will advise you.