Glasses come in countless materials, colors and nuances. Acetate is one of the most popular materials. It can be molded to perfectly fit the wearer’s head, but it’s also stable and it’s harmless to people with allergies. An unbeatable combination. Hardly surprising, then, that most glasses wearers choose acetate frames. However, few people know that the same starting material can have two entirely different finishes: polished or matte. The results are quite distinctive both to look at and to touch. Yet both types of glasses pass through the same production process until they reach the final step.
Let’s start with the basics. Acetate is a natural product consisting largely of cotton (approx. 70-80%). Using this renewable raw material means the process of manufacturing high-quality acetate frames is for the most part environmentally friendly. The frames are given their colors, marbling and gradations in special processes. The starting material also has to be mixed with small quantities of other substances, so that it can for example be molded. This is essential for the finished glasses to be individually adjusted to fit the wearer.
Adding the corresponding dyes while the raw material is in production determines the color of the acetate. This is where the foundations are laid for the appearance and above all for the quality of the glasses. The actual frames are then cut from the whole acetate slab. The production process involves more than 200 work steps from start to finish; at Lunor, many of these are performed by hand with impeccable craftsmanship. This video from Lunor’s production facility shows exactly how our glasses are made.
Only after the glasses have been cut out, riveted, and completely assembled does the critical final step begin: the finishing. This is where the polished acetate frames are separated from the matte ones.
Polishing is carried out in countless steps over a period of several days. The final hand polish guarantees the perfect shine. Such a protracted polishing process definitively seals the surface of the natural acetate material, making polished acetate frames extremely robust and resistant to environmental influences.
Matte acetate frames, on the other hand, get a completely different finish. The process they are put through is a far cry from that used for polished acetate frames. Instead of being polished, the surface is scored, and the materials used in this step are a well-kept manufacturing secret. However, the blasting material is completely harmless; in fact, it is kind to both humans and the environment. The matte finishing process akin to sandblasting: the glasses are blasted with tiny particles. This roughens the surface, giving the frame that unmistakable matte look. After this treatment, the blasted glasses are sealed with natural oil or special creams to close the pores. The final step after sealing is to dry the glasses. The matte finish is now complete, and the glasses feel velvety soft.
The uneven structure of matte frames lends these glasses a few distinct quirks. You can compare the surface of a matte frame to a porous wooden floor. The structure means that there is a much larger area to which secretions such as skin particles and sweat can adhere. As acetate is a natural product, matte glasses frames react to these secretions with white discoloration. Whether these reactions occur, at what intervals, and how marked they are depend on factors specific to the wearer. One factor is the composition of the wearer’s sweat.
Let’s come back to the wooden floor example. We like to compare matte acetate frames with wooden floors since both these natural products “work” and have to be polished, lasered, or treated with cream from time to time. As glasses are worn on the face and come into daily contact with the skin, it goes without saying that particularly thorough care is needed.
We recommend cleaning the frames regularly with clear water and – if necessary – a little pH-neutral soap. Afterwards, the application of a special cream is essential. Ask your optician (Lunor partner) to give you Lunor’s special care cream free of charge. If you don’t have any around, you can also use a fragrance-free hand cream. This will make sure you can enjoy your matte acetate glasses for many years to come.
Acetate is a game-changer in eyewear, offering the perfect blend of style, durability, and versatility. But what makes it stand out? Let’s dive into why this material is a top choice for both designers and those who wear glasses
Acetate, also known as cellulose acetate, is a plant-based plastic derived from natural fibers like cotton and wood pulp. Unlike petroleum-based plastics, acetate is more environmentally friendly and offers a unique combination of strength, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal.
The material is created through a complex process of acetylation, where cellulose fibers are treated to produce a durable and moldable plastic. This makes it an ideal choice for products requiring precision, like eyewear frames.
The eyewear industry has embraced acetate for its exceptional qualities, which include:
Durability
Acetate frames are known for their toughness. They can withstand everyday wear and tear, making them a reliable choice for long-term use. This strength doesn’t compromise flexibility, which allows frames to be adjusted for a perfect fit.
Lightweight Comfort
Despite its robust nature, acetate is lightweight. This makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods, an essential feature for prescription glasses or sunglasses.
Hypoallergenic Properties
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For people with sensitive skin, acetate is an excellent option. It’s hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of irritation often associated with other plastics or metals.
One of acetate’s standout qualities is its visual appeal. Designers are drawn to its ability to achieve vibrant colors, unique patterns, and high transparency. Here’s why acetate shines in the design process:
Unlimited Color Options
Acetate can be dyed in virtually any color, from bold, solid hues to intricate multi-colored patterns. This allows designers to create collections that cater to diverse tastes and styles.
The material can be layered to create depth and texture, resulting in frames with gradients, stripes, or embedded patterns. Transparency enhances its appeal, offering a sleek, modern touch without tying it to specific aesthetics.
Acetate is easy to polish, resulting in frames with a glossy, high-end finish. This premium look aligns with the quality and style expectations of modern consumers.
The process of crafting acetate frames involves transforming acetate sheets into eyewear through a meticulous sequence of steps. First, acetate sheets are created in an array of colors and patterns, providing the foundation for each frame’s unique aesthetic. These sheets are then precision-cut and shaped into frame components. Next, heat is applied to soften the acetate, enabling it to be molded into the desired forms. Once shaped, the frames are finished through polishing or other techniques to achieve smooth, glossy, matte, or textured surfaces, depending on the desired look. Finally, hinges and other hardware are carefully assembled.
Acetate’s advantages go beyond its aesthetic appeal:
Eco-Friendliness
As a renewable, plant-based material, acetate is a more sustainable choice compared to petroleum-based plastics.
Customizability
Its malleability during production allows for intricate designs and a personalized fit.
Longevity
Acetate frames are resistant to shrinking and warping, ensuring they maintain their shape over time.
At Vasuma, we are dedicated to blending style, quality, and sustainability in every pair of eyewear we create. Acetate allows us to bring our vision to life with distinctive designs that stand out, reflecting the individuality of those who wear them. Its lightweight and adaptable nature ensures a comfortable fit, making our frames as enjoyable to wear as they are stylish. By choosing acetate, we also take a step toward sustainability, reducing our environmental impact without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
We use only the finest Mazzucchelli acetate, sourced from the renowned Italian manufacturer with over 170 years of expertise. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship, rich colors, and durability, Mazzucchelli acetate elevates our eyewear, ensuring each piece is both timeless and of the highest quality. Learn more about the Vasuma story and how we work with different materials.
Acetate is more than just a material—it’s a cornerstone of modern eyewear innovation. Its unique combination of durability, comfort, and aesthetic versatility makes it the ideal choice for brands and consumers alike. At Vasuma, we celebrate the endless possibilities acetate brings to eyewear, ensuring our frames are as distinctive as the people who wear them.
Whether you’re looking for bold colors, timeless designs, or sustainable choices, acetate has it all. It’s not just a material; it’s a statement of style and quality.
For more acetate glasses framesinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.