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This instructable will show you how to make a cool 3D background that goes inside your aquarium and looks like real rock but only weighs less then a ...
You will need the following Tools Razor or Box knife Foam cutter or maybe electric knife (both are optional) Ruler or other sutible straight edge Ma...
First figure out if you want to cover just the back wall of your aquarium or more. Also decide what you want your background to look like. You tube ...
Since I decided to do just one side and the back I measured the back first. I wanted the background to come to within 1 inch of the side I was not goi...
Continue to cut and lay pieces in the desired pattern you want. I cut the pieces and test fitted them before gluing them to the back piece. I glued...
I had to cut mine in half to get it into the aquarium. I tried to overlap pieces so that the seam would not show but I found this to be too restrict...
After you get all the rocks on it that you want, be sure everything lines up and fits together inside the tank like you want before the next step. So...
This step is the first in coating your background. You want to mix the concrete ALMOST water thin. Sort of like runny pancake batter. I used a con...
The next coat should be a bit thicker. About the consistancy of thick pancake batter. Again spread it on with he brushes. I suggest adding some of...
I mixed this coat about the consistancy of the first. Add the color as well. I wanted to paint it on using the brush in a dabbing motion. I didnt ...
After everything is dry, perferably at least 24 hours, I let mine dry a week, test fit it into the tank and try to plan how you are going to get it i...
I didn t think you needed a picture of how to clean the tank. Remove the background and make sure the glass surface you are going to stick the backg...
Next apply the silicone to the back of the background. Dont be shy about this step and add lots of silicone. Even though it has cement on it, these...
Now remember practicing in step 10 ? Here is where it will pay off. Install the pieces in the tank and brace/block/tape or hold in place till it st...
This step may or may not be necessary but needs to be considered. After filling with water, check the PH level. Let it sit for a day or two and che...
After letting mine sit for a couple of weeks I felt confident to start cycling the tank. I added my sand, started my filters and started a fishless ...
After some requests, I added some photos of the background after it has been up and running for awhile now. Has some algae growth on it and some blac...
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