working with plexiglass

[Crash Landing]

Hi folks,

I have started experimenting with plexiglass. Does anyone have a technique for polishing the edge cuts? I currently use a propane torch to "melt" to a polished finish but this is only good on the outside edges. Any ideas how to polish the interior cuts?

tia

crash

[GrayBeard]

Sorry...can't help with the edges.
I know it can be touchy stuff to work with from past experiences.
Please post your 'methods'...saw speed, blades, backings, etc.

~~~GB~~~

[Crash Landing]

Graybeard,

I use Polar #5 blades slow to med speed. I leave the paper covering on the plastic then wrap both sides in packing tape then adhere the pattern to that..by going slow I avoid the cuts melting back together. I have only been at this a few times. I like the results to a degree but would really like to have smooth glass like edges.
This is experimental attempting a variation on the shadow box idea.

Crash

[northie66]

I'm curious about this post as I have a sheet of plexiglass that calls my name from time to time.

[chips]

 Crash,

  Not what your looking for but here's a video that Steve put out on cutting Acrylic that might be of some interest to others.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YmUm-wa1xI

[northie66]

Wow!  Makes me want acrylic and a blow torch!

I'm not going that route though... I'm going to show some restraint.  Mainly because I ain't even allowed to have candles in the house since that one incident.  ;o)

[Crash Landing]

Janet,

Not to worry. Use the propane torch outside. That way when the flame goes out you won't pass out from breathing the gas.
But I am curious. Was the fire department involved or was it the people in the white coats during your candle incident?

crash

[Crash Landing]

Chips,

Thanks for the link. Yes it was pretty much how I do it now. Although Steve is way better at his cuts than I am and he doesn't melt nearly as much as I do.

Crash

[chief]

I put packing tape over the factory paper and then use a little WD-40 as you scroll.  If the edges are fairly straight wet sand with 400 and then 800 and then the torch will polish it easily.  I have also just held it ove rthe stove because I didnt have a torch.  Why buy a tool you really dont need.

[northie66]

Crash - I left a bunch of votive candles lit on a shelf and went to bed.  Hubby said by the grace of God he woke up thirsty and went to the kitchen.  He said the ledge was hot to the touch.

[Paw Paw Ray]

This is a portrait that I did a while back.  I sanded the glass before cutting to give it a smoked look.


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[Dawie]

That looks awesome. I have never really worked with plexiglass but have considered it. Thanks for sharing.
David

[Crash Landing]

Paw Paw Ray,
That is fantastic. I really like the sanded aspect. Gives it a surreal look. Very nice indeed.

Crash