How to Easily Mold Acrylic Plastic Sheets

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Measure the inside of your oven.

   As you'll need to put the plastic sheet into the oven, this is your size limitation.
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   Step 2: Have a mold ready to use.

   The example here is the outside of a mold, but it can work inside, too. , The only major variable that can affect the forming process is the thickness of the plastic sheet.
   
   This article uses a sheet about 1/4" thick, so all times are about 10 to 15 minutes per step.
   
   For thicker sheets, it will take longer, and for thinner sheets, it will take less time.
   
   Modify the timing as necessary. , Make sure the sheet is just big enough for the form.
   
   Use a plastic cutting knife to cut the sheet down to the general overall size. , This should include any interior cutouts, corners, etc. , When it's ready you'll find it flexible when you try to pick it up. , It's hot and will burn you if you're not careful. , using the heavy shears or scissors.
   
   You'll have about 2 minutes before it cools and hardens too much to cut.
   
   If it gets too hard, put it back in the oven to warm up again. , Above that temperature it can melt and/or begin to bubble. , use your fingers and firm pressure to press into any corners, fold, bends, etc.
   
   Continue to hold and press into shape until it begins to harden. ,,, If there are a few curves or bends that need correcting, you can turn on a burner on low to pass the piece back and forth over to SLOWLY heat it up for localized bends.
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   Step 3: Make adjustments appropriate to the specifications of your project.

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   Step 4: Measure the size of the of the overall piece you need.

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   Step 5: Mark the shape with a black felt tip pen.

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   Step 6: Place the plastic sheet on a cookie sheet and place in an oven set to 250 F. Wait about 10 minutes for it to warm fully.

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   Step 7: Put on your gloves when you work with the plastic.

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   Step 8: The first step is to cut any curves

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   Step 9: corners

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    Step 10: cutouts

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    Step 11: Once it's cut to form

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    Step 12: place back into the oven and raise the temperature to no more than 275 F. At 300 F. it will begin to stick to the cookie sheet.

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    Step 13: Pull the plastic out and quickly press onto or into the mold that's ready.

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    Step 14: Quickly dunk into cold water to cool and set the piece.

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    Step 15: If there is a mistake

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    Step 16: reheat and start over again.

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    Step 17: Final check.

Detailed Guide

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