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	DIY decorations safe for aquarium
SkittyKat Small Fry Posts: 4 Kudos: 4 Votes: 0 Registered: 15-May-2012	I was wondering what type of materials I would need to make my own decor. What type of paint would be safe. I want to make the picture shown. Any input would be appreciated thanks *Attached Image:*
Posted 17-May-2012 03:41
Babelfish Administrator Small Fry with Ketchup Posts: 6833 Kudos: 8324 Votes: 1570 Registered: 17-Apr-2003	If anything I'd try making it out of plastic, if you have access to a 3D printer that'd be the easiest. I've been racking my brain trying to think the best type of paint all morning. I want to say acrylic but I don't think that's right. I also seem to remember something about using aquarium grade silicone to coat decor (or make sure small rocks aren't moving when you make your own caves), but it's been awhile since I've made my own decor . ^_^
Posted 20-May-2012 02:11
Callatya Moderator The girl's got crabs! Posts: 9662 Kudos: 5261 Registered: 16-Sep-2001	Tricky. I suppose the simplest way would be to treat it like a textured background. I believe you can use latex paint or water-based paint and then seal it thoroughly with pour-on resin (less important with latex, vital with acrylic). I will hunt down some tutorials and brands for you :-) What are you planning on making it out of? Another option would be to make it from ceramic or white earthenware clay and use food-safe glazes for the colour. That would be the safest option but would require access to a potter's shed or local art school to be able to get the materials and kiln. There are plenty around though, might be worth looking into. For animals, the entire universe has been neatly divided into things to (a) mate with, (b) eat, (c) run away from, and (d) rocks. - Terry Pratchett
Posted 20-May-2012 03:05
superlion Mega Fish Posts: 1246 Kudos: 673 Votes: 339 Registered: 27-Sep-2003	Here's a thought - would polymer clay be safe for fish (after being fired, of course)? ><>
Posted 22-May-2012 00:39
Callatya Moderator The girl's got crabs! Posts: 9662 Kudos: 5261 Registered: 16-Sep-2001	They generally say 'not food safe" so in large quantities I'd be wary, but I think in small quantities in enough water, with regular water changes and fish with shorter lifespans (just to be extra safe in case of long term exposure issues) you should be OK. Would need to be smaller non-chewy fish though, probably not the best to have them chomping on the stuff. Resin-coating it would be safer still, and probably what I'd go for myself. I hear good things about ICE resin staying clear over time, so it might hold up better under exposure to aquarium lighting. For animals, the entire universe has been neatly divided into things to (a) mate with, (b) eat, (c) run away from, and (d) rocks. - Terry Pratchett
Posted 23-May-2012 17:17


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