It was designed to be connected into tempered glass boxes for retail displays (in clothing stores and the like). I ordered one and it has smooth edges to make it easy and safe to handle so I figured I’d pass it along for anyone interested in something similar.
I have several similar pieces of glass that I use for various purposes. However, I got mine at a local glass shop. They generally have scrap tempered glass around from replacing plate glass windows that they are happy to sell cheaply.
I bought an inexpensive one- about $13.00 at a Michael’s Crafts store. It was tempered glass, rounded edges, with an underside ruled grid- similar to Xacto cutting mats. I put four small cushion pads on the corners to make it easier to lift up from a work surface. Made for cutting- decals, masking tape, etc.- where I use an Xacto blade or a single-edged razor blade on it. I clean it with alcohol after each use, to remove masking tape residue.
You can go to a thrift store and find an old picture frame that still has the glass in it. If you’re worried about the edges, run some electrical tap along the edges.
On drawback to cutting on glass is that it will dull your X-acto blade a lot faster. I usually cut on a piece of foamcore.
Not only is glass good for decal work its also good for trouble shooting derailment problems.
Place the engine or car on the glass and check to see if the wheels are touching the class.I learn that trick back in the 60s when I was buying brass engines since that was a sure way to tell if the wheels touching the surface and to ensure the engine didn’t lean.
I used the glass shelf out of an old refrigerator, and do almost all of my modelling work on it. Good for cutting decals, masking tape, styrene and wire, all using X-Acto blades.
Actually a glass panel is great for several reasons. A level work space, also kit instructions can be put under the glass, protecting it from paint & glue dripps. Also it cleans off easily with a straight razor, plus if your workbench is in a living area it helps preserve the look of the workbench
I just use an extra computer table
Here’s a close up of instructions, safe and “under glass”
But decals I cut on a small piece of butcher block to save exacto blades [;)]
That’s a great tip. I use my glass all the time for this.
It’s best to get a piece of “plate glass” but many of the heavier mirrors are essentially the same. This ensures the ultra-smooth and flat surface you need for troubleshooting.
Another tip of what to use with it for troubleshooting? Get a piece of paper. Try to slide it under each wheel. If it’s NO GO or at least clearly resists the pressure of the page going under it, it’s good. If it slips right under the wheel, then you’ve got a problem. If your eyes are getting old and weak like mine, the paper makes things clear.
