How to build a Plexi Glass/ Acrylic Aquarium

**This is a hard level project and should only be performed by an adult** You can use these plans to make any size aquarium. Always make the bottom piece the size of the finished tank. The front, back and both end pieces set on top of the bottom piece so subtract 3/4 inch from the length of ends. That way all the pieces will fit on top and glue together straight. To determine the gallons of your finished project measure then multiply the length, width, (Usually the bottom piece) and height of the side, (convert them to inches) LOL, and then divide by 231. You can order the Plexi glass precut or do it yourself if you know how to use a table saw. You can buy by the sheet and try to cut it your self you will need a water spray bottle to cool your saw and a high performance circular saw blade. You need the spray bottle because the plastic and metal mix type of cutting gets hot and when plastic gets hot it melts and this could destroy your project altogether. Also, the water from the spray bottle should not saturate the protective cover on the Plexi glass. Have you ever tried to remove a sticker from something with water and it stuck; even worse will happen to the sheet if it gets wetter. If you use either of the cut methods (ordered or on your own) you will want to make sure the edge of the cut is straight (use a level). You will need to sand as gently as possible the sides to be glued this will prevent bubbles. There is another way to shape and cut your pieces as well; "scribing". This is a technique used on tile. You can use it on Plexi glass. You may want to install your own overflow. You will need a scroll saw and an overflow kit. You may also want to find out how much gape your side sit filter has and design a topper piece to retro fit appropriately.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• MATERIALS
• Plexi glass cut to size
• 4 oz. can of thin acrylic cement or pvc glue
• a needle squeeze bottle for cement
• 2-3 oz. tube aquarium sealant/ clear silicone rubber
• Applicator tip for silicone
• Gloves
• Rag
• 2 rolls Electrical tape
• Helper
• Raised work area

1. Steps to making the acrylic aquarium
   
   1.Order, cut, or scribe your pieces to desired size tank.
2. 2.Check the level and shape of pieces make sure they are right.
3. 3.Carefully sand the cut sides you are going to glue (not view side); to prevent bubbling.
4. 4.Slightly pull back the pieces protective cover. Enough to prevent it from sticking in glue or block the view of glued crease.
5. 5.Place 4 in. strips of electrical tape on the underneath edges of the bottom tank piece of acrylic. Place on working area with at least 4 ft 360 degrees around to move. Remember to leave 2 in. of the 4 in. tape to attach it to the other pieces.
6. 6.Place 4 in strips of electrical tape on the outer side tank ends and front and back pieces where they will be taped together. Leaving 2 in.
7. 7.Attach the front to the ends then the back and the back to the second end. Finally attach the bottom to all the sides. After they have been loosely taped together.
8. 8. Make sure you have enough air out and an open vent or window/ garage door. Put on your gloves.
9. 9. Stretch if you need and apply cement by using your needle squeeze bottle and injecting it carefully between one piece of Plexi glass at a time.
10. 10. Then apply pressure and tighten tape move to next side and repeat until done.
11. 11. Wait 24 hours. Fumes will be overwhelming. Try to vent it some how (turn a fan on it).
12. 12. Open air out ventilation. Put your gloves on again. Apply the aquarium sealant (with applicator tip) to the inside creases and smooth it with a fingertip.
13. 13. Wipe your finger off on a rag after each crease.
14. 14. Repeat until done.

Tips & Warnings

• The small needle squeeze bottle will be used to apply the cement by squirting it between the pieces of plastic after they have been loosely taped together. You can stretch it for more space and pull and place back to apply even pressure as the cement dries. The tube of thick filling type acrylic cement is used to fill any small spaces.
• The benefits of using Plexi glass versus glass.; Plexi glass has 6 to 17 times greater resistance to breakage; depending on thickness. The downfall is the fumes and smell. If you love a good project and need some time in the workshop, try it. Now that you are ready, try to stay calm don't rush and good luck.