How to engrave a Computer Window (Part 2)

This goes with How to engrave a Computer Window ( Part 1)This is optional but I think it looks cool.

Part 2 is taking that engraving and making it stand out. This makes the window look Tron like in a way. This is a nice effect but you do need some bright lights to make it look nice.

Step 1 Tools needed.

Tools needed.

*The already engraved window or use use Part 1 make one

*Dremel - or other rotary tool that takes engraving bits.
*Flex-shaft - helps a lot to makes the tool feel lighter and *avoid mistakes.
*Engraving Bits - I used a 107. Any size will work. Smaller if *you want detail.
*Tape - now used to tape off what you don't want to paint
*Spray Paint - any color you want as long as it will stick to plexiglas. I used back.
*A good light.

Comments

[carfur]

Or you could just take a plexiglass and thin masking tape and place it over the model,paint over then remove the masking tape.Much quicker and less messy.

[ShotPain]

if you are going to spray paint it black, why don't you just engrave straight through the case?

[SpiroExDeus]

A way you could get a similar effect but with a window that is still seethrough would be to purchase some UV reactive paint or ink and a UV light. Then simply paint the engraved parts with the UV reactive product and place the UV light inside.

[jjjjack]

pretty good looking considering no pro help!

[chainmodel]

I know when building plastic models you can cloud the clear plastic with acetone. Not sure if it'd work for plexiglass, but it might be worth a try. Just take the windows off, then apply acetone to the unpainted side. Be careful not too let it pool or to wipe too hard, as it may soften the surface and cause texturing. Best to try it on a corner first. Anyone else have an idea on this? Addemdum: You could sandblast the unpainted side to achieve the same effect, or go to town with fine grit sandpaper.

[Rob K]

Awesome!! I didn't know that my instructable had 10,000 views. Thanks for liking it.

[GorillazMiko]

What kind of computer do you have?

[Rob K]

The case is a Aspire X-Qpack. It is a micro ATX case.

[golddigger1559]

can you show me where to hook up the transformer for a cathode lamp I can't find out where to plug it in

[Rob K]

What do you mean? Usually the transformer has a plug that connects to a computers power supply molex plug.

[joey2542667]

awesome!! thats as good as airbrushtricks!

[GorillazMiko]

That looks AWESOME! It would work with my Dell Dimension 2100, except it doesn't have blue LED lights in it. Maybe I can add them in. Awesome job, will there be any more parts? +1 rating. (added to favorites)

[Rob K]

The only thing else I will do with this is get blue CCFl tubes so I can actualy see the engraving.

[Rob K]

I did get 2 blue CCFL 12 inch tubes but I don't have a high quality camera right now to take a picture. The look awsome alot better looing then just using the led fan. I wil udate the instructable when I can ge a beter picure

[bduffman]

another reason may be because thats clear plexi you should have used frosted disperses the light better were as were is more of a torch light effect great job tho im thinking of doing this in my car inthe doors already building it just wasnt gona have engraving

[Rob K]

It might be because it is cast pleiglas. Extruded should frost when it is engraved.

[phoenix124]

nice! I like the contrast you get this way, looks great lol u totally get my +1 rating too :P

[LinuxH4x0r]

Great looking! I would rather spray it and then remove the paint, so the engraved parts are colored and the rest is clear

[Rob K]

I made a few signs that way. For doing it to plexiglas i guess you could just paint your design into the cracks after engraving.