Building an Aquarium Stand (5'x2'x2') - Part One

[@realhusky]

Sweet build. I did basically the same but put in an additional support for the top frame. This was in a nursing rehabilitation center so we wanted it to take a wheel chair impact lol. I used 1x4 dimensional on the outside spacing it half inch to look like a really fancy pallet with a removable front

[@matthewchicoine3114]

Easily one of the best build videos I’ve seen! Very descriptive and thorough instructions, well done, appreciate your video, thanks

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks! Glad I could help :)

[@arjay0490]

Been searching for a video like this to no avail. Im glad KZbin recommended it.

[@grantv2313]

This is exactly what a tank needs. Way stronger and cheaper than a store bought stand. This will last a long time. I might copy this design

[@joshuvajosh179]

Looks great .what is the thickness of the wood

[@nahueldalaison2770]

I will do it !! Im begining tomorrow ! Thanks for share this video !! All the best for you from Argentina !!!

[@marvinwinter301]

Thanks for the video. I enjoy coffee usually a dark roast. I have been planning to build one for my 90 gallon. We cut a cherry tree down and I milled it, so the wood is drying in the attic of my garage. Thanks for the ideas.

[@fishroombum3771]

WOW! That’s impressive that you build this stand using a hand saw vs a mitre saw. Well done with the clamps, screw lengths and explanations. Kneed pads are helpful.

[@jasonappleby9883]

Considering building a stand for a 700l, many thanks for the inspiration!

[@helenhoward4082]

Wow..... This video is awesome! Sorry though you ended up with sore knees, hope you made a speedy recovery😊 You made it look so easy in building this stand. I've just very kindly been given a 5ft fish tank but am now looking for a stand. I didn't realize how expensive a stand could be hence my coming on KZbin to see if there were any videos on how to build/make one & that's when I came across your video. Thank you for the clear, precise & easy instructions on how to build/making a solid stand. I will have to see if I can get my dad to help/involved as he usually loves any type of diy project, fingers crossed😆

[@alexbrakeall3416]

Hi I have never built anything without the supervision of my woods teacher but I followed your video to a T and I am super proud of myself of how good it came out. I just wanted to say thanks for the help!

[@epenaloza52]

I cant believe how easy it is to make a simple stand and here I was breaking my had as to how to be making one dude your a saver

[@matthewbell9667]

Good job

[@SimplyShrimps]

Cheers!

[@nikkismith2168]

Great video. Thank you

[@c.baseball3819]

Wow what a great design just finished a 2 tank rack for 2 10 gallons will have to build this for my 2 fluval flex 15s and my 5 tall

[@malmartiify]

Hi there. How large are the timbers? Greetings from Chile.

[@NoahSpencer643]

I want a low stand for a 410 ltr glass fish tank obviously needs to be strong do you recommend this size to hold the weight

[@savannahkalyn]

Could I put the legs on the outside of the frame or would that affect the stands support??

[@markwehrle5069]

Which supports do you mean when you say legs? The first 4 uprights just inside the corners some consider more or less guides then the 8 slightly shorter uprights (2 per corner) are really key as the weight fron the tank, applies force to the top frame, which sits directly on these upright timbers which sit on the bottom frame then the floor.

[@5wisher5weet]

Nice work, I'm going to do the same. Only things I would of done is use straight edge or fence when you used your circular and jig saw. Also would have per drilled pilot holes and counter sunk screws. I'm guessing you don't have 2 drills?

[@SimplyShrimps]

Yeah this is something that I will more than likely invest in next time around. Thought this was my first time doing this and I didn’t have all the best tools (hence the hand saw haha) thanks

[@tariquejamal8823]

Which wood I should use ???? Plzz reply

[@SimplyShrimps]

Pine

[@k9games721]

Thanks for all the info! Gonna build one myself now!

[@SimplyShrimps]

No worries! Have fun :)

[@surfinairwaves9284]

I’m glad I’ve come across this video. It’s very simple thank you!

[@SimplyShrimps]

No worries! Happy to help :)

[@hlwposse458]

About to build myself one in about an hour gonna follow this thank you

[@SimplyShrimps]

Good luck and have fun 😁

[@marka9556]

I was making an aquarium stand use dimensional lumber, even ran the boards thru my table saw to ensure they are perfectly straight. After glueing/screwing the top frame, one of the boards warped rendering it useless. Always use care when using solid wood. Off to hardware store to buy a sheet of plywood and start over.

[@k0d0kan]

Nice Job bro..

[@bing2010able]

which one more long lasting? screw or bolt & nut screw? i try screw but still can pull off the wood😒

[@dougmorissette459]

Excellent video! Very detailed and informative.

[@SimplyShrimps]

Hopefully it helps you!

[@strangersgarden]

Hey, what type of wood is this, and where did you purchase it from? Thanks, also great work

[@AmazingCichlids]

Would you mind putting up a list of tools? And the cost of purchasing the wood? Thanks

[@SimplyShrimps]

I forgot now but I’ll have a look and see if I can find the receipts and put them in the description :)

[@AmazingCichlids]

Simply Shrimps thanks I’d appreciate it! Weighing up wether it’s cost effective for my new 240litre tank

[@AmazingCichlids]

Simply Shrimps even if it’s just a rough idea on the cost of wood, and a list of tools.

[@ABM261-zi2gl]

What type of wood did you use?

[@JZ-ht1kx]

You don't have to slide up. You just have to flip the aquarium stand over and slide down. Great build though.

[@SimplyShrimps]

That's a great tip thanks! I'll bare that in mind for next time :)

[@jumadiadi9738]

😊

[@michaladamski6039]

Hi its that 4x2 timber?

[@SimplyShrimps]

89mm x 38mm

[@syedhanzala3045]

Which wood did you use

[@JinGwee]

Nice. what is the length of each of the 15 2x4 ?

[@Gennsanable]

great video. very informative

[@madnesswheels]

I’m glad I come across this vid as I need to build a new stand 4 my 1000 litre tank I’ve gotta adjust it a bit but like your idea on the Fram it self

[@natanyofsho]

great job! look great! cool to see you didn't even need an angle square clamp.

[@jemerbautista]

Wow that looks awesome by any chance u have spreadsheet of the size wood 😅

[@dom420lsd]

I currently have the wood all measured up and cut. I’m wondering which size went where?

[@SimplyShrimps]

It’s like a giant jigsaw puzzle 😅 I think I mention what each one was for when I stated the sizes.

[@Fagav]

Hello, could you tell me the measures of the wood in cm I mean thickness and width thank you very much

[@SimplyShrimps]

38mm x 89mm :)

[@raulvazquez1857]

Can I use 2x4x8 pressure treated lumber?

[@sarahireland5140]

Flip it upside to put the top brace on. I Love the end song!

[@iandaft9973]

Thanks for the video, great to watch, what I need to know if I should leave a gap at the top of the stand to fit the tank

[@georgettamorton2839]

Nice

[@LOL-wl5po]

great video..please help me with the measurements of wood pieces to be cut for 4'x1.6'x2'.Thank in advance.

[@SimplyShrimps]

I'n not sure sorry

[@muhdyunus89]

Great video...

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks :D

[@dandaman83]

Great video thanks. Just made my own, similar size too for a 4 ft tank but I'm making aquaponic system. This is the sturdiest best piece of carpentry I've ever made. But I'm going to try and do flush doors so I'll probably screw that up, never used a jig saw before...wingin it

[@1410PK]

Nice, Thnx for the Vid.

[@andiyretro5036]

I want to ask, what size is the wood in cm? 

[@arcturusbbqsausagemaking2435]

Great build... Well done

[@SimplyShrimps]

Cheers :D

[@ridindirtyrc]

Thank you very much, made a stand for my 150 pound tank!

[@SimplyShrimps]

Happy to help 😁

[@BarbarosYurttagul]

Looks good. My first question is; the stand looks off balance. What did you do to fix it? The second question is; are your woods chamfered or not?

[@SimplyShrimps]

Does it look off balance? It wasn’t. Might have been an uneven floor. The wood does have a slightly bevelled edge yes :)

[@BarbarosYurttagul]

@@SimplyShrimps thanks

[@woodysdiy]

Great build mate. Oh and it's tea and any chocolate biscuits .

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks! I’m English and I don’t even like tea ha! Good choice of biscuits though.

[@mandoblast503]

Coffee for me. I appreciate the in depth design on the build. I'll be putting together a stand for a 75 gallon (284 liter) aquarium that im moving my tinfoil barbs into from the 55 gallon they are in now. I'm subscribed now :)

[@SimplyShrimps]

Good choice! Tinfoil bards are a great big schooling fish, good luck with the move. Thanks :)

[@1USAUSA]

Hey Mr. Shrimp... got a question for you... do you first PRE-DRILL a hole for the screws to go in before you start screwing them with drill? Cause you don't show that part in the video.

[@tmaxianrider5081]

It makes it easier and results in less frustration, but with deck screws, you don't have to predrill hole.

[@1USAUSA]

@@tmaxianrider5081 Thank you, my friend. I followed this video and built myself a very similar stand for my fish tank. Wow, it is strong as a steel. I did pre-drill holes for the screws, even though I did try to just screw them in first and it was just too frustrating like you said. Few screws wouldn't go in all the way or one or two got stuck... lol... Have a great day now, my friend. :)

[@marko1779]

Great video. Now I have an idea on how to make my stand. 👍🏽

[@SimplyShrimps]

Yay! Glad I could help 😁

[@tammeracook5466]

Why can't you drill most of the screws from the back instead of the front??Wouldn't that hide a lot of the screw marks? Or is there something wrong with doing it that way?

[@SimplyShrimps]

Not at all. In fact that's a great idea! I might have to try it next time. I think it's just easier screwing from the outside in.

[@adamalward3450]

Just cover the entire thing out of plywood and you can't see them anyway :P

[@azmanchuchu4309]

Hallo what size you wood?

[@thomasmaher6542]

Great video, didn’t take much time to work out the right measurements for my tank. Worked a treat for my 180litre tank 👌🏼 Keep up the good work 👍🏼

[@alendshkur796]

Where do you find lumber like that all I can get is twisted crap

[@SimplyShrimps]

I just hand selected them in the hardware store

[@tmaxianrider5081]

Thanks for your video. I appreciate your sense of humour and easy going style. Besides being informative, it is entertaining (: I can't believe you cut all that stuff with a handsaw. WHY?????????? No way would I tackle something like this without my Dewalt powered miter saw. Your end result is impressive and inspired me to use it as a basis for making my own tank stand. I have used it to make a version of this stand for a 75g tank. I have completed things through the end of "part 1". Just some comments on things so far, in no particular order. In the section where you had difficulty lifting up the second frame...if you turn the whole thing upside down and let gravity do the work, it comes right off (: I used more screws than you did, esp. on the cross beams from front to back. Pretty much everywhere I thought a screw could go, I put two in. On the other hand, I didn't use any glue. Thing seems rock solid. I didn't see anything in your video on how to measure the desired width. I cut wood based on the width of the tank....I didn't think to factor in the width of the plywood sides. Now I think I might have a problem with how the trim that forms the "lip" will fit. I guess I can make it the thickness of the plywood, but then I will need a second piece of trim to cover the seam between the plywood and the frame that forms the lip. We will see how it goes. I don't know how I managed it - because I tried to be so careful, but my "center support" is off center. So my doors will not be the same size. I could take things apart to fix it, but I'm not going to . At this point, it is what it is. I didn't measure it yet, but I think it is off by an inch. Oh well (: Speaking of bad measurements....I "double thunk" myself. I cut the frame wood as if it would go AROUND the tank, rather than support the thank. So they were all 3" too long. I realized this after making "frame 1" and doing a test fit at the tank. It went around the tank just fine - and then I thought, "DUH, it needs to SUPPORT the tank. So I cut the two long pieces 3" shorter, but somehow didn't think to do the two short pieces - and I didn't realize that until I was almost done with part 1. So I had to take it apart and cut the 10 or so short pieces to make them 3" shorter. That screw up cost me an hour, which was less than I was thinking. I'm glad I did it though because otherwise the end result would be goofy. I think you're sort of giving the short stick to the interior though. There is a lot more you can do there than what I saw at the end of Part 2. I put in the same cross beams on the bottom as I did for the top, so it is symmetrical in that respect. I also put in a 2x4 piece in the "center channel" to create a smooth floor there. I am also going to put in plywood or planks on the inside bottom, to cover all the bottom cross beams and give it a more finished look, in addition to the practical benefit of a smooth floor. The BIG thing it is missing is shelving. I'm going to put some in mine. I am also doing the electrical a bit different. I am planning on using USB-charged, portable/wireless motion detecting lights. That will make the inside a lot cleaner and neater. I have more OCD than you do (: I'm also going to put in more "storage cubby" type arrangements, and overall really try to make the inside of the cabinet look as nice as the outside of the cabinet. Yes, my OCD is strong. If you provide a way to contact you more directly, I will send you pictures and such to show what I am doing if you want. No hot drinks. If I want to burn my tongue, I'll eat pizza. Dr. Pepper for me, thanks. Overall - great work! Thanks again!

[@pack13sheet]

Very informative video... much appreciated Man... thanks 😊

[@amylavery2545]

Hi mate what's the name of the wood you're using can't find it anywhere thanks

[@JC-vi7gg]

How much did all the wood cost🤔🤔🤔

[@hmongguyful]

Thanks for the video, Im gonna use this design. What do you think if I used 4x4s for the legs? So there wouldn't be any need to add more vertical supports for each forner. The base and top will just be the standard 2x4.

[@kennyconley8383]

If my stand that I’m needing is 48 inches long and 18 inches tall and 13 inches wide. What measurements would I need for mine

[@carlnine8580]

hii....can i know what is that wood name?

[@marioheir9364]

Hi Nice job ! what would be price for material to build this stand pls ?

[@SimplyShrimps]

Hi there, thanks! I forget now but I think the complete stand, after I painted it an all, was around £200 ish 😁

[@madgamerstudios324]

Will a 5t gallon long fit this?

[@josephfrinkel1717]

I'm trying to understand your math. If the 2x4 (usually 31/2") length for the vertical supports 22 1/2" long, the distance between the top and bottom frame would be 22" yet you have them at 22 1/2" . A half inch longer . Please explain

[@SimplyShrimps]

Maybe we have different measurements in the UK 😂 All I know is that the dimensions stated are all correct and it fitted together perfectly 😁

[@christianpelkey8491]

2x4’s are actually 1.5 x 3.5 i believe

[@michaelmiller3966]

im guessing its to raise the top rectangle .5 or so inches away from the 29" uprights to give him some space to insure the uprights wont effect the plywood from sitting flat on the top. extra wiggle room and that way you know it will sit flush across the top because the upright wont be sticking up passed the top rectangle. but your math is correct.. in all countries.

[@amilachinthana7687]

good job

[@SimplyShrimps]

Cheers 😁

[@anthonyragan2696]

Very nice. Over-built for sturdiness, just the way I like it. I have to admit I raised an eyebrow at the color choices, but it looked really neat at the end, like a Chinese lacquered cabinet. Well done!

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks :) yeah better safe than sorry!

[@edhorlickbullecer8564]

Coffee... Definitely COFFEE! I like mine black. :-)

[@SimplyShrimps]

It will make you up for sure :)

[@niravpatel9448]

Awesome video so helpful!

[@dennis-qu7bs]

good work mate!

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks you!

[@stuartthurgeson3847]

I'm looking at building a similar stand for a 240 litre tank that's 4ft x 1.5ft x 2ft. Could I get away with using 3x2 instead of 4x2?

[@SimplyShrimps]

I’d say you should be ok yes :) just make sure you re-enforce the main support legs like I did. Better safe than sorry ;)

[@mrswiggles2012]

great job my friend. I prefer coffee. One cup a day in the morning and tea only whenchilly or I feel a bit under the weather.

[@SimplyShrimps]

I can’t stand tea and I’m English haha 😂

[@ameen89100]

Hi there, Just a quick question, if your stand height is 29 inches you should be going for 10 of 22 inches lumber but but you have gone with 22.5 inches, is it because of a snug fit

[@SimplyShrimps]

I built it for the dimensions of my tank really.

[@ameen89100]

@@SimplyShrimps Ok, thanks for the update

[@jnava121]

Short and Simple! was very helpful

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks! Glad I could help 😁

[@stingcoldplay1]

Absolutely love this stand!! We were looking to purchase one just yesterday then came across your channel. Thank you very much for sharing!! .... tools are out - ready to start with ours :)

[@SimplyShrimps]

Good luck :) I hope it goes well!

[@TeruPets]

Nice project! Coffee all day

[@SimplyShrimps]

indeed!

[@NIKHILCHAUHAN-xv9ox]

Which wood u use in this video pls tell me wood name

[@SimplyShrimps]

Pine

[@NIKHILCHAUHAN-xv9ox]

Thank u so much for replay and u help me pls tell me i ahbe 4 feet by 2 feet by 2 feet tank so how much size sump is best ya u send me link sump designed

[@SimplyShrimps]

I don’t know too much about sumps sorry :(

[@danielsmith5294]

Hi amazing tank been looking to buy a stand for my 5x2x2 Acrylic tank. My question is what did you use to make the edging for that hides the bottom of the tank? Also is that same piece of wood is that just glued and not screwed?? Thank

[@JUnitYT]

Do you have a materials list anywhere? Purchasing tomorrow :)

[@MrUaas]

Hi, I noticed that you used 2 types of wood, reddish and whittish, what are they? Or is it my imagination?

[@SimplyShrimps]

I only used one type of wood for the frame :) I faced it with plywood in the part two video.

[@MrUaas]

@@SimplyShrimps ok, thanks, and great video.

[@SimplyShrimps]

No worries. Thanks!

[@michaelhardy20]

Just finished building this today, inspired by your video, one thing though, the measurements are wrong for the support struts lol i got all the wood cut at the builders merchants and the 22.5" pieces should actually of been 22", should really of measured it and thought about it myself but there you go. Thanks for the video anyway!

[@SimplyShrimps]

How strange, I just re measured mine on the stand and they are 22.5” hmm 🤔 That’s amazing though I’m glad I could help! If you have Instagram and love to see a picture of the stand. Tag me in it @simply_shrimps 😁

[@michaelhardy20]

Simply Shrimps Hi yes very strange, i fitted the both top and bottom frames so they sat flush with the 29" height struts and when i went to fit the uprights they were all 1/2" too long lol no bother i just sawed a bit off, i will tag you when its ready im having a few issues with it at the moment, had the empty tank on it tonight and its got a few high spots which is leaving a 1-2mm air gap in certain spots, needs sorting before i fill it, i must say you made it look easy on your video! It was quite fiddly and frustrating i had no clamps and no flat floor lol

[@SimplyShrimps]

Oops.. I have a sheet of wood and polystyrene under the tank and on top of the stand. The just helped level it out completely. I look forward to seeing it :)

[@jamesh7876]

Michael Hardy I was wondering about that half inch myself; I’m thinking of adding 6 inches to both leg struts and making it 2.5’ tall to allow for a higher tank over all and room for a sump. How does yours look?

[@Tony-zq2fs]

Copying this same design ty so much! BTW did you drill pilot holes? Some of the wood I got cracked even though I did do pilot holes and the drills said no pilot hole required lol

[@ralphashdown4589]

I’m just about to build one for my new tank which is 2m x 0.8m which will hold just about 100l of water. I intend using your design but with 2 sets of supports along the long side i.e. each one a third of the length. I just hop it’s enough!!!

[@jean-paullaguette4113]

What is the Thickness for the wood?

[@SimplyShrimps]

89mm

[@jean-paullaguette4113]

@@SimplyShrimps thanks for a 180L can i use 30mmx60mm pine?

[@SimplyShrimps]

I’m not sure as I’m not an engineer sorry :(

[@riyanmohamedsajer2905]

Hi, Can you help me I am planning for a 48x18x18 aquarium, please sir can you help me with the measurements for the pieces of stand?.. Please help me out

[@thiagobadroca8220]

Awesome thanks 👏

[@SimplyShrimps]

No worries 😁

[@markthomas3730]

IT'S ALSO A GOOD IDEA TO SCREW BACK TO FRONT & FRONT TO BACK...2 EACH WAY IS ADVISEABLE

[@christopherblack7823]

LOVE it! What kind of paint didyou use was it a high gloos grade paint? Brand name if any did you use?

[@SimplyShrimps]

Cheers dude! Yes it was a high gloss paint (Cuban Red). It is Wickes own brand, which is a hardware store in the UK.

[@iandaft9973]

Can i use treated pine to build my fish tank stand, As I notice that all tanks are normal pine,

[@InappropriateReefer]

This is fantastic, thank you!

[@SimplyShrimps]

Thanks for stopping by :D Your 150g is coming along nicely! I look forward to more updates :) I’m actually planning on setting up a pico marine tank soon.

[@NatureCubes]

You are legit everywhere. Planted tank youtubers, reef youtubers, fish youtubers, and now I see you here xd. (big fan)

[@InappropriateReefer]

Lol! Sounds like I have too much time on my hands!!

[@NatureCubes]

Then go do a water change, duh :D

[@kristyrose3959]

Do you/I have to use 2x4 can't I use 3x2

[@SimplyShrimps]

Up to you but the bigger they are the more support it will give :)

[@kristyrose3959]

@@SimplyShrimps I get that but my tank is only 101L 41W about 200Litrs and 2x4 seems a bit over doing it

[@SimplyShrimps]

Should be ok then. I made another for a 200l tank with 2x1.5 inch wood. Seems on 6 months later :)

[@kristyrose3959]

@@SimplyShrimps thanks for that info

[@kristyrose3959]

1 more question--- there's treated, untreated, softwood, hardwood How much of a difference does it make

[@erwinmalianzaman785]

I appreciate your good work. I want make it one like yours. Thank you very much for the usefull video.

[@SimplyShrimps]

No worries 😁

[@fozzy19]

What the measurements of boards at 2:56 of the video @simplyshrimps

[@SimplyShrimps]

I believe they are the 60” ones

[@fozzy19]

@@SimplyShrimps the side board measurements bout the build it this weekend

[@markadams9401]

Great job young man! You've inspired me to make my own stand and this size would be great for my 90 gallon tank. My question is can you comment about your parts list for the pre cut lumber pieces, giving a description of which cut piece goes where on the stand? I'm sorry I can't quite make out what you're saying, like struts, I don't know where you mean. I know the long pieces, but not all the short ones. Thank you very much for your efforts!

[@lingeshwaran7961]

What wood is that??

[@XDD34DXD]

Pine from wickes m8