Buzz
Plexiglass resembles glass but is more durable and less prone to breaking. artpartner-images / Getty ImagesPlexiglass, a brand of acrylic sheets, is made from a tough plastic material and is commonly used as a substitute for glass. It offers the clarity of glass but is less likely to shatter. However, it is prone to scratches, so it's important to handle and cut it carefully. Plexiglass is widely used in both professional and craft settings [source: AllSands].
Plexiglass is typically sold wrapped in protective paper. It's best to leave the paper on as long as possible to prevent scratches. Follow the steps below to cut thin sheets of Plexiglass along straight lines [source: AllSands].
- Place the Plexiglass on a stable, flat surface.
- Use a grease pencil to mark the area where you want to make the cut. For straight lines, a ruler or tape measure can help ensure accuracy.
- Score the marked lines with a glass cutter, making five to ten passes along the same line.
- Move the scored portion to the edge of the work surface.
- Apply a firm downward pressure to snap the Plexiglass along the scored line.
For cutting more intricate shapes or thicker Plexiglass, power tools are necessary. Equip your power saw with a blade specifically designed for acrylic or one intended for cutting metals like aluminum or copper. The blade should have fine, evenly spaced teeth of equal height [source: The Natural Handyman]. Follow steps one and two, then use the power saw to cut the Plexiglass accordingly.
Regardless of the cutting method, the edges of your Plexiglass will likely need to be smoothed afterward. The easiest way to do this is with a power saw.
