Posted by:
beginnersbasics
at Sat Nov 15 13:20:22 2003 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by beginnersbasics ]
I have not yet built one of these but thought that the many people that are asking for some cage building ideas might like to see these plans. If you do use these plans, let us know how it turns out 
Have fun!
Misc. materials needed:
Box of staples for wire mesh
(38) 1-1/2” drywall screws
(92) 2-1/4” drywall screws
8’x24” wide, 1/8” wire cloth
2 closers for the doors
2 pair of hinges for the doors
Materials list and sizes:
A=2x2x21” lg. (4 pcs.)
B=2x2x45” lg. (4 pcs.)
C=2x2x21” lg. (1 pc.)
D=2x2x24” lg. (4 pcs.)
E=24”x24”x3/8” plywood (2 pcs.)
F=2x2x19” lg. (4 pcs.)
G=2x2x21-1/4” lg. (4 pcs.)
H=2x2x21” lg. (2 pcs.)
I=24”x48”x3/8” plywood (2 pc.)
Tools needed:
Circular Saw, Drill and Phillips screw tip, 1/8” bit, staple gun & wire-cutters
Cut all the pieces; assemble the frame, then cut and staple wire mesh to the doors and the top. Screw plywood to bottom, back and sides (1-1/2” screws)
When making a cage, always cut wood ahead of time and then lay out the pieces on the floor as if putting together a jigsaw puzzle, before doing any of the permanent fastening of the pieces. pre-drill the screw holes to aid in assembly and to make certain the wood doesn’t split. 2x2’s being fastened near the ends of the pieces will easily split or crack on you, if you don’t pre-drill each screw hole.
When working on the door, keep in mind that there will be a ¼” gap all around the door. This is important when fastening the bottom ledge 2x2 found just under the doors. The opening size there should be kept at ½” over the actual size (height) of the door. It would be wise to assemble the doors in the first few stages of the assembly, this way you can make the height of the opening work around the door. In case you’re off a little on the height of the doors when you make them, you can adjust this lower piece to work.
put together the cage frame in squares, and then attach the sections…
The cages shown here are basic and are meant to be used or kept in a reptile room. Looks are not as important here than functionality… If you are planning on displaying your cages in a room like the living room, family room or den, etc., you can purchase additional trim molding to cover up the ends of the wire mesh screen where the staples will show.
There are many different door catches and locks you could use to close the cage doors. I have even used hook and eyes and hasps for small pad locks.
What ever works and at times, what ever I have in my tool box… The key is to save money and time making the cages, yet make good quality, escape proof enclosures for you pets. Making the cages safe for your pets is also very important. Don’t leave screw tips sticking out of the wood where the animal may cut or puncture itself. Don’t use harsh chemicals, stains or paints that could harm your reptiles. Don’t use paneling or particle boards that contain harmful chemicals that could hurt or kill your reptiles. Don’t use pressure treated lumber for your cages either. Be smart, be safe and more importantly… Have Fun, and enjoy making your pets’ new house!
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Lisa
www.beginnersbasics.com
Cricket FREE babies!
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 cage building idea for all interested...... - beginnersbasics, Sat Nov 15 13:20:22 2003
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