Don't buy. Clean house instead.
More than likely, the makings of a terrarium are lurking in your garage or basement at this very moment. Aside from the specialty items that fill out the interior environment, all the terrarium supplies you'll need can be found with a little rummaging. Glass
Leave the hoity-toity terrariums to the Victorians. These status symbols of old may glimmer with ornate glass and carved wood, but it's what's inside that counts. Recycled glass, discarded aquariums, fishbowls, mason jars are all acceptable terrarium materials. In fact, the first terrarium, kept by Dr. Nathaniel Ward, was a modest glass jar. |  |
Plexiglass
Plexiglas, a trade name for acrylic glass, rivals glass as capable terrarium material. It weighs less, transmits more light, and does not shatter. Also unlike glass, acrylic glass allows UV light to pass through unabated. As plants require some UV light to produce vitamin D, this can spare the terrarium hobbyist the need for fluorescent lighting. Based on this promising information, one might conclude that it is a far superior terrarium material. However, it is far more susceptible to scratching than glass, and it is generally more expensive.
Alternative materials
Terrariums are not subject to the same demands as aquariums. Since they are not called on to withstand the substantial pressure of water, terrarium frames can be made cheaply, using plastic, wood, or inexpensive metals. It is even possible to use wood or metal as your sole terrarium material, save for one glass or Plexiglas side for viewing and light dissipation. This is a good way to make use of materials that otherwise might be discarded. Better still, it will save you money.
 | What's in a name?
Depending on the materials you add to your terrarium, you can end up with any of the following: - Insectarium- You guessed it: a terrarium harboring insects.
- Formicarium/Formicary- Depending on your allegiance to Latin, a terrarium with ants is known by either of these names.
- Paludarium- A swamp or rain forest environment. These are often kept sealed for high humidity.
- Riparium- A sort of aquarium-terrarium combination. These terrariums feature a re-created river or pond perfect for frogs or reptiles.
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