DIY Large Aquarium Stand

An aquarium stand is a functional way of displaying your fish tank. It is important to choose a stand that is made to hold the weight of your tank once you add water, substrate, decorations and fish, because otherwise the stand could break. You can find commercial fish tanks at your local pet store or fish supply store; however, these can be expensive. If you want to save some money and have a bit of time to devote, you can make your own 50-gallon tank stand at home out of wood and screws.

Things You'll Need

  • 4 wooden boards, 2 by 2 by 48 1/4 inches
  • 6 wooden boards, 2 by 2 by 8 inches
  • 6 wooden boards, 2 by 2 by 26 inches
  • Wood glue
  • 4-inch wood screws
  • 4-inch metal L brackets
  • Stain
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make the base of your aquarium stand. Place two of the 2 by 2 by 48-inch wood boards on your work surface so they are parallel. Place two of the 2 by 2 by 8-inch boards inside the edges of the larger boards so that they are perpendicular and create a 90-degree angle at the corners. This will create a large rectangle. Ensure the corners are all flush.

    • 2

      Insert a third 2 by 2 by 48-inch wood board in the center of the rectangle you just created. It should be parallel to the other 2 by 2 by 48-inch wood boards. This will divide the rectangle into two smaller rectangles. Attach the pieces together using wood glue and 4-inch wood screws.

    • 3

      Make the top of the stand the same way you made the base, repeating the previous steps.

    • 4

      Attach a leg to the base by fastening a 2 by 2 by 26-inch piece to one of the corners. The leg should be pointing upward and flush to the corner of the base. Use a 4-inch metal L bracket, placed on the inside of the leg, along with wood glue and wood screws to attach it in place. Place the L bracket where the leg and the base meet.

    • 5

      Attach a second L bracket for added stability on the opposite side of the leg, in the same manner. Repeat this process with the remaining 5 legs so that you have one leg on each corner of the base and 2 legs on the middle divider.

    • 6

      Attach the top of the stand to the legs you just attached to the base. Follow the same attachment method you used with the base, using L brackets, screws and wood glue.

    • 7

      Stain your finished aquarium stand. You can also paint it if you prefer. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before use.