How to Make an Acrylic Block

* Acrylic sheet (1/4" or 1/2" thick)

* Glass cutter or utility knife

* Safety glasses

* Steel ruler

* Cutting mat

* Sandpaper

* Polishing compound (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut the acrylic sheet to the desired size. Use a glass cutter or utility knife to score the acrylic sheet along the ruler, then snap it apart. Be sure to wear safety glasses when cutting acrylic.

2. Sand the edges of the acrylic sheet to smooth them out. Use a medium-grit sandpaper to remove any rough edges, then follow up with a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface.

3. Buff the acrylic sheet with a polishing compound (optional). This will help to remove any scratches or swirls from the surface of the acrylic and give it a shiny finish.

4. Your acrylic block is now ready to use! You can use it as a display stand for your favorite objects, or as a paperweight or bookend.

Tips

* When cutting the acrylic sheet, be sure to use a sharp blade and score the acrylic deeply. This will help to prevent the acrylic from chipping or cracking.

* If you don't have a glass cutter or utility knife, you can also use a hacksaw to cut the acrylic sheet.

* Be sure to wear safety glasses when cutting or sanding acrylic.

* Acrylic sheets can be cut to any shape. If you want a custom shape, you can use a jigsaw or scroll saw to cut the acrylic sheet.