Stacking tub enclosures

[ThePaganJew]

Since my post about my reptile room I've gotten a few questions on how I make my stacking cages. So now I've decided to make this thread!

Disclaimer!: This project requires hot/sharp tools. If you're underage don't attempt this by yourself or at least have a parents permission. Everyone should use caution when using a wood burning tool.

Here are the tools you need to make the tank:
-Wood burning tool
-Scissors
-Stapler

Here are the materials that make up the tank:




First, it's smart to trace out the size of the door, I've found this book to be the perfect size. Make sure to keep the door about an inch from the bottom at least so if something spills inside it won't leak out. Or that way you can also have thicker substrate in it.:




After I trace an outline is when I take the box OUTSIDE and use the wood burning kit to cut the hole. I emphasize the outside as the melting plastic lets off nasty fumes and shouldn't be done in doors. However, a well ventalated garage works just as well:


(Side note: take the edge of your cutting tool and run it gently and quickly around the inside edge you just cut to smooth out rough areas)

Next I lay out the one inch thick velcro around the outside of the hole. The velcro I use has a holding weight of 1lb per inch so that stuff isn't coming off:



Then, after removing the paper I lay the mesh over the hole and stretch it somewhat taught. I keep it oversized for now as it's incredibly easy to trim to size in place with a razorblade or scissors. This way I have room for error:



After all that is done I remove the screen/velcro combo and staple them together (there have been discussions in the house over who does it the right way lol). Though I have been toying with the idea of taking nylon ribbon and sewing that over the top for a more firm hold.

Last, make sure to clean out the tub and insert substrate, foliage, and animals:



And lets not forget how they look all nice and stacked!:



I hope this has been helpful, any feedback would be appreciated!

[Saille]

WOW! Now this is a DIY project that I think I'd be capable of without screwing it up! Way to go, Bryan, thank you so much for the step by step instructions and tips!

[Katieam]

I do something similar for the "lids" of my 20 gallons. I dont trust the screen clips that come with most so I bought a big roll of screen and some velcro and did basically what you just did but around the outer edge of the 20 gallon. Works nicely for a 20 gallon on it's side.

Awesome idea to use for tanks too! Never thought to do that!