Best Cheap Background?

[TetraFan]

Hi guys. I am looking for recommendations on the easiest, low-cost black background you can put on your tank (that isn't paint!) and how to do so. Thanks in advance!

[polukoff]

Spray paint is the cheapest and my favorite background.

[Seattle_Aquarist]

Originally Posted by TetraFan

Hi guys. I am looking for recommendations on the easiest, low-cost black background you can put on your tank (that isn't paint!) and how to do so. Thanks in advance!

Hi TetraFan,

I use the plastic sheet film available a most LFS in rolls; typically less than $1 per foot available in various heights. I cut to fit the back and tape in place. You can also use Vaseline to hold it in place but it can be messy.

[drewsuf82]

I use the black background available at petco. I covered my 55 and two 10 gallons for under $12

[TetraFan]

Thanks for the replies! All I have seen at my LFS so far are pictured background rolls, but I will keep my eyes peeled for a black one!

[Hoppy]

Right now I'm using a piece of black cardstock I got at my local grocery store. I used little velcro pads to hold it in place. Looks great.

[devilduck]

You can also go to the fabric store and purchase black opaque fabric then velcro or clamp to the back of the tank.

[antbug]

Check your local sign shop. They toss out scrap vinyl all the time. Depending on the size of your tank, it could be free.

Some people like the look of window tint as a background. Check your local window tint shop for scrap pieces as well.

[Absntmind]

Originally Posted by Seattle_Aquarist

Hi TetraFan,

I use the plastic sheet film available a most LFS in rolls; typically less than $1 per foot available in various heights. I cut to fit the back and tape in place. You can also use Vaseline to hold it in place but it can be messy.

Pam Cooking Spray also works well.

[Bluek24a4]

I used the darkest window tint that I could find.

[The Trigger]

yeah dark window tint works great. if your looking for a great non glossy background than youre probably going to have to use matte black paint

[MChambers]

Or try Plasti-Dip, which sprays on, and is black, but isn't truly paint. More like a thin rubber sheet.

[accordztech]

I use a frosted light for the florecents it gives it a nice quiet foggy look. 4 bucks...and much better than the cheesy backgrounds

[GMYukonon24s]

I use a hard plastic material background.

[longgonedaddy]

Originally Posted by TetraFan

Thanks for the replies! All I have seen at my LFS so far are pictured background rolls, but I will keep my eyes peeled for a black one!

Check the reverse sides.