how is a control panel layered??

[jahilton2002]

i've seen some cab with just a bit of mdf and art work on top.

but how are the ones with perspex on top made...... more so how is the t-moulding flush with the top of the perspex.............

and i know this is a real noobie question to ask..... be gentle 

[mgb]

Typically you would size the t-molding to fit it.
for instance if using 3/4" t-molding, you can build you cp top out of 5/8" mdf and then lay you graphics on that, and then cover it with a 1/8' thick acrylic to protect your graphics. The 5/8" mdf added to the 1/8" acrylic will equel the 3/4" of the t-molding.
you can also get other sizes of t-molding if needed. you also use a size that is wider than needed and then trim it to size.

[jahilton2002]

like this?

[upprc04]

The first case would be if the wood is 3/4" and the T-Molding is 3/4".  The second case is if the wood is 5/8" and the T-molding is still 3/4". 

What have people done to hide the bottom if they end up with case one.  I thought I read some people just routed the edge on the bottom of the wood, so it will hide the bottom of the wood.  Anyone else have any other techniques?

[Donkbaca]

You put a bevel, or chamfer on the bottom. 

[mgb]

Remember, you can buy thicker t-molding also.
T-molding.com has it up to 1.5" thick (Limited colors though).

You can then trim it to fit
heres a discussion on it:
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=86699.0

[leapinlew]

You can also chamfer the edge of the plexiglass and polish it. You'll need to hold it down with some bolts to ensure no one snags it.

[Donkbaca]

You don't need to hold down the plexi with bolts, the buttons are usually enough to keep it in place.

[leapinlew]

You don't need to hold down the plexi with bolts, the buttons are usually enough to keep it in place.

Sometimes you do. Some pieces just won't lay flat. Thats why I did it and the reason I don't use plexi anymore.

[mountain]

Here is a picture showing how I did mine with 3/4" material. Just imagine the 1/8" Plexi on top.