How to Make a Bigger Fish Tank

Most people who own fish agree that bigger is better. Either big fish, big tank, or both. If you were to buy a tank, it quickly becomes apparent how expensive they can get. Making your own tank helps you save money while creating a sense of satisfaction. Once you have mastered this task, you can create as many tanks as you want, as big as you want. Save money on tanks to buy bigger fish!

Things You'll Need

  • 5 pieces cut glass
  • Washable marker
  • Sandpaper
  • Paper towels
  • Acetone
  • Scissors
  • Electrical tape
  • Non-toxic silicone sealant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide how big you would like your tank to be. Order the glass from your local glass shop in the dimensions you need. Keep in mind that three of the pieces will be for the bottom, front, and back. A half piece of glass in that length will also be needed for the top. The two smaller pieces are needed for the sides.

    • 2

      Label all the pieces of glass with a washable marker so you know where each piece is going to go. Sand the edges of each of the pieces of glass to smooth out any possible sharp edges. Apply acetone to a paper towel and wipe down the edges of the glass.

    • 3

      Use your scissors to cut 12-4 in. lengths of electrical tape. Stick these to the side of your work table for easy access. Place the bottom pane in front of you on a hard, flat surface. Position two of the panes that will be conjoining in position on top of the bottom pane. Hold in place while using three of the pieces of tape to bind the outside corners of the conjoining panes, one on top, bottom and middle of the outside corner. Repeat the steps using the other two pieces of glass until all four corners are conjoined and bound with tape.

    • 4

      Look to make sure that all four panes are positioned exactly how you want them on top of the bottom pane. Place the tip of your silicone tube in the bottom corner of two of the conjoining panes. Squirt the silicone in the crevice while pulling up on the tube. Fill in all conjoining areas including around the inside of the bottom pane. When all crevices have been siliconed, use your finger to push the silicone deeper into the edges and release any air pockets.

    • 5

      Allow the silicone to dry for a couple of hours before removing the tape and wiping away the marker. Use your razor blade to clean up any messy silicone spots and to trim away any excess. Allow the tank to fully cure for 48 hours before trying to fill. Wash thoroughly before placing any fish inside the tank.