Ethan Clarke
Building a plastic display case is a great way to show off your collectibles, from signed baseballs to costumes or models. It is a simple and affordable DIY project that allows you to choose the type, colour, and size of the display case to suit your needs. Before you begin, it's important to measure the item you wish to display and plan the dimensions of your case accordingly. Safety equipment is also crucial when cutting plastic to avoid any accidents. Once you've gathered your materials and measured your item, you can start constructing your display case by cutting and gluing the plastic sheets together, adding a base, and securing your item inside. With some careful planning and construction, you'll have a professional-looking display case to showcase your prized possessions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Displaying and protecting collectibles from dust |
| Materials | Acrylic/plexiglass sheets, silicone caulk, acrylic glue, clamps, masking tape, hinges, wood, epoxy, bricks, aluminium-acrylic composite panel, double-sided tape |
| Tools | Router, table saw, miter saw, safety equipment |
| Steps | 1. Measure item dimensions and desired display case size. 2. Cut and bevel plexiglass/acrylic sheets. 3. Assemble sheets with glue and clamps. 4. Apply silicone caulk to seams. 5. Allow glue to cure. 6. Attach hinges and tape door closed. 7. Secure base with epoxy or double-sided tape. 8. Arrange items inside |
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What You'll Learn
Measure the item's height, width and depth, adding a few inches for clearance
When building a plastic display case, it is important to first measure the item's height, width, and depth, and then add a few inches for clearance. This will ensure that the item fits comfortably within the display case and that there is enough space for it to be displayed effectively.
To do this, use a measuring tape to measure the height, width, and depth of the item you wish to display. Make a note of these measurements. Then, decide how much additional space you want around the item. A good rule of thumb is to add 1 to 2 inches of height and width for items that are 16" or less. For larger items, you may want to add 3 to 4 inches on each side. This will give your item ample clearance and create a visually appealing display.
Additionally, consider the overall height of the display case in relation to the item. The general recommendation is to keep the tallest item within 1 to 2 inches of the display case's overall height. This will ensure that the item is the focal point and doesn't get lost inside the display case.
It is also important to think about the display case in three dimensions. The four sides should be identical, and the top and bottom should be equal to the width and depth of the case. This will ensure that your plastic display case has a consistent and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
By carefully measuring the item and adding the appropriate amount of clearance, you can create a well-fitted and attractive plastic display case that showcases your item effectively.
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Cut the acrylic with safety equipment to avoid injury
When cutting acrylic, it is important to wear safety equipment to avoid injuries. Acrylic can be cut with a variety of common tools, but it is important to take precautions to protect yourself from sharp shards of acrylic that could break off and cause injury.
To cut acrylic with safety equipment, start by putting on personal protective equipment, including gloves and safety goggles or glasses. This will protect your hands and eyes from any flying debris. Make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area, as cutting acrylic can release vapors that may irritate your respiratory system.
Next, you will need to mark the cut line on the acrylic sheet. Use a ruler or a metal straightedge to create a straight line, and mark it with a permanent marker or grease pencil. If you plan to keep the straightedge on the acrylic to guide your cut, clamp it down to the sheet to prevent it from moving.
Now you're ready to start cutting. You can use a plastic scoring blade or a utility knife to score the line in the acrylic sheet. Guide the blade with the straightedge to ensure a straight cut. Score the line several times to deepen the cut, and then flip the acrylic over and score the other side along the same line. Scoring on both sides will make it easier to snap the acrylic into pieces and will result in a cleaner cut.
After you've scored the line, it's time to break the acrylic along the score line. Clamp the acrylic sheet to a table edge, aligning the edge with the scored line. Then, apply pressure to the outer edge of the sheet with a quick, snapping motion. The acrylic should break along the score line, giving you a clean edge.
By following these steps and wearing the appropriate safety equipment, you can cut acrylic safely and effectively, reducing the risk of injury.
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Assemble the case with glue, clamps and silicone caulk
To assemble the case, start by placing one of the ends onto your work area and applying acrylic glue to the side. Attach one of the other ends so that it stands upright. Repeat this process for the third side, the top, and the bottom until you have a box without a back. Use clamps to hold the pieces together securely. Wipe away any excess glue from the inside of the case with a rag.
Once the pieces are clamped and the glue has been wiped clean, it's time to apply the silicone caulk. Carefully apply the caulk to the inside of the display case along the seams. This will help create a strong bond and ensure that your case is airtight and waterproof. Allow the acrylic glue to cure for at least 24 hours, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
During the curing time, you can prepare the remaining side, which will be the door of your display case. Determine the placement of the hinges and attach them to the door and the stationary side. You can then stand the case up in its intended orientation. Tape the door closed with masking tape to hold it in place temporarily.
After the glue has cured, place the door onto the open side of the display case. Find the centre of the door, about an inch from the edge, and mark the spot. This is where you will install the latch or handle to secure the door shut. With the hinges and latch in place, your display case is now functional and ready for you to add your collectibles.
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Add a wooden base for a professional touch
Adding a wooden base to your plastic display case is a great way to elevate the look of your display and give it a professional touch. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this:
First, decide whether you want a flat bottom or a small recess on the bottom of your wooden base. A flat bottom will sit flush with the surface, while a recess will give a slightly different aesthetic. If you choose a flat bottom, you can use your original thickness board and route an edge on it. For a recessed base, you may need to plane the wood or find a piece that is the thickness of your desired recess.
Once you've decided on the style of your base, center your clear display box on the wooden base and carefully trace the outline. This will ensure that your display box fits snugly into the base. Using a router or a similar tool, cut out an even depth along the traced outline. Bevel the edges of the wooden base for a more polished look. You can use a table router to round the edges, adding a subtle curve that can enhance the overall appearance.
After cutting and shaping the wooden base, it's important to sand it to ensure a smooth finish. Use a combination of a vibratory hand sander and hand sanding with sandpaper to achieve the desired smoothness. Start with lower grits of around 80-180 and gradually work your way up until you're happy with the texture. This step is crucial as it refines the look and feel of the wood, removing any splinters or rough patches.
Finally, it's time to attach your display box to the wooden base. You can use a simple method like drilling or nailing two holes through the base and wiring the object in place. Alternatively, you can use an adhesive like epoxy to secure the display box to the base. Be careful not to overload the epoxy, as it may squeeze out from the edges. Allow the adhesive to dry and set for at least two hours, or follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific drying time.
By following these steps, you'll end up with a wooden base that complements your plastic display case, adding a touch of elegance and professionalism to your overall presentation.
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Secure the item inside the case with wire or glue
When building a plastic display case, it is important to consider how you will secure the item inside. The method you choose will depend on the weight and material of the object. Here are some options for securing an item inside a display case with wire or glue:
Using Wire
If your display case is made of acrylic, you can use wire to secure the item by drilling holes in the acrylic sheet and threading the wire through the holes. This method provides a secure hold and can be adjusted if needed. Ensure that the wire is strong enough to support the weight of the item.
Using Glue
Glue is another option for securing items in a display case. Craft glue or super glue can be used for most items, especially if they are lightweight. For a stronger bond, a glue gun can be used, but be aware that hot glue may not adhere well to smooth surfaces. If gluing to plastic, it is recommended to "score" and "rough up" the surface first to improve adhesion. Avoid getting glue on or near any electrical components, and be mindful of the item's material—porous objects may absorb glue.
Combining Wire and Glue
For extra security, you can combine the use of wire and glue. This can be done by wrapping wire around the object and then using glue to secure the wire to the display case. This method provides a strong and stable hold, ensuring that your item remains safely in place.
When securing an item inside a display case, it is important to consider the weight and material of the object. Heavier items may require a stronger adhesive or additional support. Always follow safety precautions when working with tools and adhesives, and plan the placement of your display case carefully to avoid damage or warping from heat sources.
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Frequently asked questions
Building a plastic display case is a simple process that involves cutting and joining plastic sheets. First, decide what you want to display, then measure its height, width, and depth, adding several inches to each measurement. Cut four identical sides, and a top and bottom that equal the width and depth of the case. Join the sides and top with acrylic glue, and use clamps to hold them in place while the glue dries. Finally, attach a door with hinges and secure it with masking tape.
You will need plastic sheets, a work area, acrylic glue, clamps, a rag, silicone caulk, and hinges. You may also want to use safety equipment such as eye protection and a respirator to protect yourself from plastic shavings.
To attach the base of your display case, you can use double-sided tape or glue. If using glue, apply it to the bevels of the base plates and join them together. If using tape, first check that the cover sits nicely on the base and does not move around too much. Then, lay the two bottom plates together, place the assembled cover on top, and secure the tape.
