How to Cut Foam Rubber for a Camera Case

You can round up your measurements and then trim later for that perfect fit.

You can protect your valuable camera equipment without spending a fortune by learning how to cut foam rubber and turn any old suitcase or bag into a durable camera case. You don't even need to be creative or have a steady hand, because foam rubber is a simple and hassle-free material that anyone can use. When you're finished, you can be sure you've constructed a secure and reliable housing for all your photography gear.

Things You'll Need

• Sheets of foam rubber
• Pen or marker
• Razor blade
• Electric carving knife

Instructions

1. 

   You can round up your measurements and then trim later for that perfect fit.

   Measure the length of the hard case or bag you will be using. Add a little extra room on the edges so the foam rubber will fit tightly. For many foam rubbers, depending on the thickness, scissors are not always the best choice, because they can chew up the material. Using an electric knife will make it easier to cut the pieces you need with better and cleaner results.

2. 

   Make sure the pen you use to trace is legible and tight around each object.

   Choose all of the parts and components you want to protect. Then take your marker and trace the shape of each one in your foam rubber sheeting. It's up to you how many compartments you want to create for the camera and flash, as well as batteries, chargers, film canisters, lenses and filters.

3. 

   The smaller the blade, the better control you will have cutting out the exact shapes of your gear.

   Using a razor blade, start cutting at the lines you've drawn. The incisions don't need to be perfect, but the closer you adhere to the tracings, the tighter the fit will be for your components. Be careful not to cut your fingers as razor blades are very sharp.

4. 

   Certain lenses and other items may need more than one layer of foam rubber to accommodate their size.

   Test fit each of your components to make sure they sit tight and secure inside the foam rubber. You may need to trim here and there to find the exact fit for each item.

Tips & Warnings

• This project is about functionality and not aesthetics, so don't worry if your handiwork isn't the prettiest or most professional handiwork you've ever seen.

• If you find that you've sliced too much foam rubber out of one of your designated cutouts, you can always add a piece back into any areas where your camera gear doesn't fit perfectly.

• Foam rubber is inexpensive; if you screw up, you can always get more and try again.

References

• DIY Photography: DIY Camera Hard Case