How did you get enough clearance for the gauges behind the plexiglas if you didn't cut it out?

I just cut mine out with a saber saw except around the light and wiper switches... interesting to watch the heated plastic melt back together behind the cut, but it is easily fractured along the line. I'm going to get a piece of 1/8" aluminum sheet, use the cardboard as a template, cut the holes out and trim the sides to fit, and fasten it to the cluster with a few screws. Saved $100