False Rock Background

[Million]

Hi all,
So, you know in large aquaria, zoos etc the tanks usually have 3D backgrounds which look like stone - what are these made of, and can you make your own?

 

[squidneh]

You can certainly make your own, many people do. Usually they are made of styrofoam, which is easy to shave/shape the way that you want it. Then you paint/seal it, and personally I'd use magnets to attach it to the tank (so it's not permanent) but many people silicone it directly to the tank. I imagine if you google 'diy 3d aquarium background' you'd get lots of hits. 

 

[cooledwhip]

I made one. I believe I have a thread about it. You will find it for sure if you go back a few pages on my threads I created.
 
I took styrofoam sheets, siliconed them together until I got a block. Then I took a razer blade and lighter/heat gun and carved out my designs. Then I took some cement mix and painted it on. It was one of the easiest things I have ever done. I just didn't like how it looked. I'll try to find the thread fo ryou.

I couldn't find it. It's one of the easiest things you can do, but only looks good if you do it right.

 

[cooledwhip]

And the styrofoam I literally found in a dumpster behind a furniture place. They have crates of this stuff they just throw out for free.