How to Build a Fish Aquarium & Stand

Aquariums and their stands are very expensive. In addition the ability to customize the aquarium or stand to meet the decorative and size requirements for the fish and decor can be extremely expensive. Building the aquarium in the home is cheaper and can allow for significant customization.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 Cell-cast 1/2" Acrylic Glass (4 foot sheets
  • Aquarium Safe Silicone
  • Table Saw
  • Jig Saw
  • Power Drill
  • Hammer
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Carpenter's square
  • Rasp
  • Sand paper
  • 6 2X4 boards cut at 4 feet
  • 2 2X4 boards cut at 2 1/2 feet
  • 3 2X4 boards cut at 28 inches
  • Varnish
  • Brush
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Instructions

  1. Building an Aquarium

    • 1

      Cut each of the acrylic sheet in half. Make sure these cuts are exact.

    • 2

      Take one of the half pieces and cut this in half again.

    • 3

      Glue two of the half sections to the third half section, creating the long sides of the aquarium using the silicone.

    • 4

      Glue the two smaller pieces onto the upright sides and base using the silicone.

    • 5

      Even out any discrepancies in the height differences of the acrylic sheets at the top and check for any leaks at the joints.

    • 6

      Be sure to allow the silicone to completely cure before adding any water or fish to the tank.

    Building the Stand

    • 7

      Attach two of the 2 1/2 2X4's to two of the 4 foot 2X4's via nails and hammer.

    • 8

      Attach the rectangle to the 4 remaining 2X4 four foot sections, forming the legs of the aquarium.

    • 9

      Place one of the 28 inch boards in the center of the rectangle, ensuring that it is flush with the rest of the frame.

    • 10

      Place two more of the 28 inch boards between the legs at the short end of the aquarium to help brace the legs.

    • 11

      Using the rasp and sandpaper, smooth out all of the edges and smooth out the board, removing all possible splinters. Varnish the stand to create a finished appearance.