After troubles with store brought backings, eg. dull taped on look, lifting Seaview product after a little over one month, I was a little disheartened but didn't want to paint either...

I came up with the idea of using Signwriters Vinyl. Cost $25 for 1.5 metres. If you choose this option, lift backing paper instore to ensure colour is on sticky side too, some vinyl's are white backed (colour won't be on sticky side which is what finally shows through the glass). Apply wet with water/dishwash solution, start in middle of tank and work out bubbles to the edges with credit card or similar. Easy! Is similar idea to the Seaview but actually sticks to glass and won't lift if water drips down back of tank or heater lifts big bubbles like mine did. It should last many years, or until change of mind, most vinyls are 5-10year rated for outdoor & vehicle use.

I wanted a blue background and chose the slightly more expensive metellic look. It changes colours depending on angle viewed at and available light reflections, pictures below (YES it IS the same tank). Please excuse third one, couldn't focus close without flash. I'm extremely happy with the final product! What do you think?

It looks really good, I done the same with my tank a little while ago but didn't even think about using dishwashing liquid and water lol, would have made the job a whole lot easier!

I have used cooking oil before with really good results to stick the store bought backgrounds on.

Wow, that must have been a nightmare to apply! Air bubbles are not to be desired... another littlel tip is to use a needle to release those nasties, then work air toward the hole. The dishwash solution is what the pro's use to apply signwriting, it doesn't destroy the backing glue and enables you to position multiple times if neccesary (keep wetting it). They also use a special squeegie, but card works just as well.

Thought about using cooking oil but after reading MANY other forums feedback, the downfall of oil seemed to be removal of crunchy type residue once it dried out or had been on a long time 1-2yrs+. Beauty of vinyl is it's easy to remove with hairdryer, and comes in hundreds of different colour choices.

As a signwriter, I custom print my backgrounds. But vinyl on the back of a tank looks a heck of a lot better then anything else, I love the metallic you went with :thup: Also you should be using baby shampoo not dishwashing detergent (for next time)

Thanks for that Rockgurl, all advice is VERY gladly accepted!!!

Will definately try that next time. Didn't know if custom printing would work with sticky side/printed side (found out now, thanks heaps ) I'm fairly new to this fishkeeping thing, but LOTS of reserch on the web has helped. And the fact that I'm a bit of a handyman and willing to try almost anything. I also believe in helping others as much as possible so enjoy sharing small tips and bright ideas.

nice, good Idea. Love the Mettalic

seems the glass cats agree too....