Perspex experts needed

PetarB · Post by **PetarB** » Mon Sep 03, 2007 6:44 pm

I've got a few models I would like to display in 'flying' mode. I dont mind the concept behind the Starwars Finemolds styrene assemblies except for two things: they are too big in relation to the subject, and they are not transparent. I would like to have a crack at making my own, with just two pieces, a vertical blade and a bottom cross piece on the bottom to provide that 'four blade' support. Looking around at a way to make this possible, the only thing I can think of is perspex.
I've never used perspex. Is it difficult to cut... cleanly? Any other advice?

Post by **TER-OR** » Mon Sep 03, 2007 8:14 pm

We call it Plexiglass here in the US, and it's acrylic.
It's not hard to work with, if you have patience. You can score and snap thinner material, or cut it on a bandsaw. Use a fine-toothed blade - I use a 1/8 inch blade with 16 teeth per inch.

You will need to sand and polish the cut edge. Wetsand, take your time, and finish with buffing-grade abrasives.

You can bond it using "hot" cements like Tenax and Ambroid Liquid Weld or Methylene Chloride. The best way is to use a fine pipette and apply a very small amount to the joint, which should flow via capillary action and dissolve plastic along the joint.

Get some, play with it, and get the feel for how it works.

Richard Baker · Post by **Richard Baker** » Mon Sep 03, 2007 8:57 pm

PM Sent.