How to Make Display Cases

Your collectibles are too dear to leave them out without protection.

It doesn't matter if you collect stuffed animals, die cast cars, fossils, insects or yo-yos, you probably spend a lot of time hunting down new additions to your collection. You might also have a good amount of money invested in your collection. That's why you should protect it from dust and accidental spills. No need to keep your beloved collector's items packed away. After all, you would like to look at and admire your collectibles without having to unpack and repack them. Make your own clear display cases, where they'll stay safe but in view.

Things You'll Need

• Acrylic glass
• Protective gloves and glasses
• Band or circular saw
• Acrylic adhesive or clear silicone caulking
• Finished 1/2-inch wood plaques or blocks

Instructions

1. Figure out how big to make your display cases. Measure the length and width of the wood block which will serve as the base of the box. Then add 2 inches to the length and 2 inches to the width, so there is an inch ledge on the final product.

2. Purchase enough 1/8-inch acrylic glass to accommodate your measurements. Note that you'll need four sides and a top for each box; the bottom will be made of wood. Acrylic glass is available at some hardware stores and any large home improvement store. Most often, the salesperson will cut the acrylic pieces to your measurements. If you do this, be absolutely sure of your measurements.

3. Put on protective gloves and glasses.

4. Cut the acrylic glass to the correct size with a band saw or circular saw if you have to cut the individual pieces yourself.

5. Sand gently all the edges with fine-grit sandpaper until smooth.

6. Lay the top piece down on your workplace. Glue each side to the top, one by one, until the box is formed. Allow to dry thoroughly according to product directions.

7. Place your collector's item on a prefinished block of wood and put the box, upside-down, over the item.

Tips & Warnings

• Measure twice and cut once. Take your time and you'll end up with a much higher quality finished product.

• Enjoy your work, and it will turn out the best.

• Also use caution when operating power tools.

• Use appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and safety goggles.

References

• Tap Plastics: Working with Acrylite Acrylic Sheet