Produced by Robert A. Wilson
For the
MODEL SHIP WORLD WEBSITE

This is a step-by-step description of how I build display cases. My models are all miniatures, so I prefer to use 3mm acrylic sheet that is supplied with a protective coating on both sides. If you wish to build a larger display case, the methods are the same, but it is better to use a thicker acrylic for strength.

                        When explaining how to build display case, or models, I am often asked questions along the lines  “Why don’t you do it this way?”  or “Why don’t you use…. Instead of…..?” The simple answer is that this is the way I do it.    Should you wish to try variations on my methods, that is fine, but I find my own methods are tried and tested over the years.

                        I begin with the quadrant beading around the base. This is 18mm quadrant. The first task is to cut the mitre in the corners. To ensure that the opposite sides are the same length, I tape the pieces together with masking tape. First, decide the approximate length of the sides.

For the cutting of the mitres I use a “chop saw". This device was  relatively cheap and I also consider it to be potentially very dangerous  and always use the greatest of care when using it.
 

The “chop saw”

 

Cutting the mitres

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