these are just some random DIY things i did. its no tutorial but if theres anything youd like info on, id be happy to help BBA - black beard algae - kill it with excel
custom fiberglass canopy, later sprayed chrome on inside to reflect light back into tank and black on outside
DIY 3d-ish background. its grout mixed with paint plastered on cardboard stuck behind the tank - it gives a 3d effect without taking up valuable space in the tank
3d-ish background. grout mixed with paint plastered on cardboard stuck behind tank saves valuable space in the tank while giving a 3d effect might paint it darker grey to give deapth to the tank
also, if you were "smart" like i was and mixed ugly stone with sand, there is a way to undo the damage. get a shallow bucket, throw some of your substrate in, fill with water till it covers the stone and shake the bucket till the large stones rise to the surface then skim off the larger stones. its very labor intensive but if its worth the effort to you, this method works.
Nice going. DIY is fun. I enjoyed it then got over it very fast lol. I'm a fan of peroxide treatment for BBA appears to kill it faster for me. Just be careful though using it.
@jody , please can I get some info on your DIY canister filter? what is the purpose of the bleed valve?
The bleed valve sucks out stray air bubbles in the tube. There's a 1350l/hr 19w water pump inside with filter sponge and ceramic stones for the good bacteria.