Category: DIY Aquariums

A new backdrop can restore the joy and excitement to a tank. However, few people have the money or time to go to the pet shop to buy a new backdrop every week. For this reason, more and more people are deciding to make their own.

One of the easiest backdrops you can make for your tank consists out of little more than styrofoam and a roll of foil that you will find in the back of your pantry. Measure and cut out a piece of styrofoam that will fit neatly into the back of your tank. Tear off pieces of foil and roll it into balls. Then you need to gently unroll the balls and rub small amounts of dark non toxic paint into the wrinkles. Next, you are ready to apply glue to the styrofoam board and stretch the pieces of foil over the glue.

If you prefer something that looks a little more industrial you may want to consider playing around with the cement look. To make this backdrop you will need another styrofoam board to fit your tank, a palette knife, and a runny mixture of cement and water. Use the knife to apply the concrete to the board in thin layers. Continue in this manner until the entire board has been covered. You may need to apply a second layer of cement to ensure that nothing shines through. This second layer is a good time to experiment with textures. Even if you do not decide to experiment with textures this industrial backdrop will have a striking effect when incorporated in your tank.

Making new backdrops for your tank is not only a fun activity but it is also a great way to change aesthetics without spending a lot of money. With just a few simple supplies you can make a wide range of different backdrops.

The drip tray underneath your tank serves an important function. It is there to catch all of the drips and splashes that come off of your tank. But what do you do if your drip tray breaks? Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to make your own replacement.

For a short term solution, you will need a large amount of aluminium foil. Determine the size of your tank and then add a few inches to that number. Start to layer the foil until you have a sheet the size of your tank that is at least six or seven layers thick. Fold in the corners until your sheet resembles a large tray.

Alternatively, you can build your own drip catcher by using sheets of perspex and hot glue. Measure out a large piece of perspex that matches the diameter of your tank. Cut two pieces of perspex that are two inches high and as long as the length of your tank and another two-inch piece that match the breadth. Glue all of the pieces together with hot glue. When your drip catcher under your tank breaks you do not need to lose hope. You can make your own.

Keeping fish is a wonderful way to unwind after a long day. However, the cost of maintaining a beautiful tank is not as great. Is it better to build your own supplies or should you just keep on buying new decorations for your tank?

One of the best parts of going to your local pet shop to buy things for your tank is that it takes little to no creativity on your part. There are large varieties of decorations that will transform your tank. When you choose to make these decorations yourself all of the responsibility lies on your shoulders. You will also be limited by your own artistic ability.

However, when you compare the cost of ready-made decorations to the cost of making them yourself you will be amazed. The premade decorations are often more than a third of the cost of something that you can make for yourself. If you are limited by your budget this is definitely the route that you should take.

There are benefits and drawbacks associated with doing it yourself as opposed to purchasing things for your tank. If you are limited in your creative abilities you should opt for buying objects but if you do not have the biggest budget then tinker a bit.

The stand your tank sits on is almost as important as the tank itself. Instead of heading out to the shop to buy a new one why not try building one for yourself? This way it will look the way you want it to and serve all of the functions you need.

When it comes to home building projects your measurements are essential. Before you begin, it is important to measure the length and breadth of your tank. Then you need to decide the height that you want your tank to be. Always remember that if you have any doubts measure again. You will need a few pieces of timber to use as legs, planks for the tops and sides. It is also important to remember to add supports into the cupboard because it will need to support a large amount of weight when you put your tank in place. A good idea is to add a tray to the edge of your project. This will help to prevent the tank from slipping out of place. A tank that is not firmly secured can be dangerous as it is easy to pull off.

You may want to consider looking for old cupboard doors at your nearest charity shop if you do not feel like building your own doors. You will also need hinges so that you can attach the doors to your stand for easy access to your storage. If storage is a priority you may also want to add a light to improve accessibility to external filtration systems and the other equipment you store beneath the tank.

This is an excellent project for your Sunday afternoon that will save you a large amount of money. All it takes is a few limited tools and supplies and the most basic of carpentry skills.

A good backdrop can often mean the difference between a mediocre tank and a breathtakingly beautiful one. Fortunately, this is one of the easiest projects for hobbyists and can be finished in one short hour.

Find a large sheet of styrofoam that matches the diameter of the back wall of your tank. Then it is time to bring out the paint, just make sure that it is a non-toxic acrylic paint that will not harm your fish. Let your imagination loose and decorate the sheet with any scene you choose. However, scenes that imitate your fish’s natural environment tend to be the most aesthetically pleasing. You can add extra pieces of styrofoam to imitate rocks or other structural features. Pasting artificial plants to your backdrop will add to the multidimensional

effect that it has in your tank. Other good options are using small glass beads to stick to the bottom of the backdrop. Not only does it make it more visually interesting but the texture will add something for your fish to explore. Making your own backdrop for your tank is a fun way to add a little personality to your tank. This project will help you make a natural environment that is pleasing to you and your pet.