Possible to make your own foam inserts for cases?

[Kaido]

I've been on a power tool kick lately and some of my equipment didn't come with cases. I'm a neat freak and would like to have some kind of case to put them away in. Basically I am looking for some cases with foam that can be cut away easily. If you're familiar with Pelican cases, it would be like their pull-and-pluck foam cases (but those are usually $90+). Any suggestions on DIY foam equipment holders?

 

[sager66]

A pistol case from Wal-Mart might work.

 

[Mermaidman]

ooo, intriguing idea. I'd like to know too.

Are you talking about Styrofoam (stiff), or more of a spongy foam?

 

[Kaido]

Originally posted by: Mermaidman
ooo, intriguing idea. I'd like to know too.

Are you talking about Styrofoam (stiff), or more of a spongy foam?

Spongy foam. I want to make a case for my camera equipment, one for my dremel tool, etc. Here is a photo of a Pelican case with the foam chunks you can pull out to customize it:

http://www.casesbypelican.com/1500-photo.htm

Problem is they are usually over $100 because they are water-proof, dust-proof, etc. I don't really want to blow that much on a case since the tool is worth much less lol. Plus I don't have a shop of my own and my toolbox is already filled with small parts I use on a regular basis, so having custom foam cases would be really great.

 

[Mermaidman]

i c

Well--if it's just that spongy stuff, can't you just buy a big block of it from a craft store and cut to fit your case? You don't even need to create cut outs for your tools--they can create their own indentations

 

[Kaido]

Originally posted by: Mermaidman
i c

Well--if it's just that spongy stuff, can't you just buy a big block of it from a craft store and cut to fit your case? You don't even need to create cut outs for your tools--they can create their own indentations

I just talked to my dad who's into tools, he said basically the same thing. Home Depot sells a lot of cases (I have a nice $20 Husky one), then you buy some foam, use spray adhesive to stick it in your case, draw outlines or put down a paper template for your tools, then cut using an Exacto knife, hot wire, or bandsaw. This sounds promising...my dremel needs a new home