My kit is designed to be mobile, so I’ve used Kaizen foam pretty heavily. One benefit is that it’s easy to see if something is missing before packing up at the end of the day. Another is that it keeps the tools in place during transit.
The biggest "Con" for me is the cost. That stuff is massively expensive, IMHO. I've been working on cheaper solutions using stuff like what you'd get at a craft store. I'm still experimenting but making progress. The other "Con" for me is that once you've cut the foam, you can't just add something new unless there happens to be space left.
Have you tried the interlocking floor matting designed for gyms etc? It's thinner but wayyyy cheaper. Walmart in US/Canada sell 4 sheets, 2' x 2' x about 11mm thick for CAD$14 + tax
@@tjp148 That's a great idea. No, I haven't yet, but I've actually got a couple of old squares in my garage now that I wouldn't mind cutting up for an experiment. Have you tried it?
@@porthose2002 yeah I have, it’s more difficult to draw outlines onto so use 2” wide masking/painters tape to cover the area you’re going to cut out, then draw your tool outline onto that. It’s way more dense than standard “kaizen foam” so don’t go too quick with the blade you use, and use the absolute sharpest blade you can find. Make several passes rather than trying to cut full depth all in one go. I commented somewhere about using a router to remove large areas of foam for consistent depth control, this technique is more beneficial in these floor mats because you can’t tear it with your fingers easily Good luck!
It's always the Cost. That being said, I have two additions to it: 1) The cost is greatly reduced if you buy direct and all at one time. I looked at prices on Amazon and direct from Kaizen and it was always through the roof. BUT if you buy direct from Kaizen and exceed $100, the shipping is free. So I ended up getting four 2x4 sheets at basically $25 per sheet instead of one sheet at $50+ each. HUGE savings. Just took the commitment. 2) The real savings is the organization and the life it adds to your tools. My hunt for tools is reduced to Zero. That time factor alone is worth it. Not just the tool, but the tool for the tool like a wrench and extra bits that go with an angle grinder. No more hunting. It's all there. Added benefit: Less swearing. Also, the life of my tools is much longer now. No more banging them around as I dig past to get to another tool reducing their usability. It's all worth it.
They have been using it for a long time in the military/aviation community for positive tool control. You use the thinner 1/2" sheet with a contrasting color (usually yellow) so missing tools really show. I retired over 20 years ago and we were using it then.
A cheaper medium can be the foam floor tiles that link together, they are about half inch thick, I use the first layer uncut then as many cut layes as you need to keep the tools snug.
There is a very nice tip! I never though about the lower thickness and stability of the foam. I want to put my tools in the wall and I think Im gonna use MDF for it. Thanks for the nice vídeo!
Thanks for the video! I've been wondering about this stuff, how it is to work with etc. I can definitely see it taking a while to cut out and probably best reserved for sensitive / expensive equipment.
Really like the idea, I have used 3D printing in a similar manner. With the print you can cut the walls thinner, create vertical space, use elastic material or add labeling out of the box.
I have used it as a base layer in two firearm display boxes I have made. Its ability to handle the weight and uneven shapes was a major plus like you pointed out with the tools.
Awesome video and a great demonstration of how to handle the foam. Definitely planning on doing this to bring some organization to my growing router + router accessories + accessories for router accessories collection.
I use it in my studio for my camera equipment. It is, like you said, hyper organized but it was not as easy as I thought it would be. I have another 2x4 sheet that I have plans for in the workshop when I have time. I got mine from FastCap (I believe they are the creator).
I tried using similar products when I was a professional Auto mechanic and honestly for ANYONE who is always adding tools the cost doesn't warrant the use because as you add tools you have to pull the "old" foam, toss it, then BUY more to reconfigure your space and that can become a never ending process. I have seen it used in a class room setting in Charlotte NC were it made it easy for the trainer to inventory the tools at the end of each class. That scenario was perfect because there was a specific set of tools for each class etc... For some folks it may be a great investment but for me I would have to pass. Like I said tried something like it many years ago from either Snap On or Mac Tools, so long ago I can't remember lol! But I don remember it just didn't work out for me. =-)
Yeah if you’re constantly upgrading I can totally see that. But for those of us who have pretty much everything we need. Like say a leather worker who has every tool and piece of material here she needs this might be a pretty good option. I’m gonna use it sparingly but I totally understand what you’re saying
I just bought some of the Rockler’s new foam that is similar to the Kaizen foam. It’s one third the cost. It just came late this afternoon so I won’t be cutting it until tomorrow.
Pro tip for cutting this is to use a candle to heat your razor knife. The melting point on this is pretty low, so a hot razor knife goes through it like butter, and leaves a much cleaner edge.
ALL of my toolbox drawers have foam in them! You don't have as much room but you ALWAYS know if a tool is missing as well as being able to find any tool very fast! I just by generic closed cell foam from a local company in the depth to match my toolbox drawers. Wish I could post pictures!
The one negative that has really kept me from doing this stuff is upgradability. I'm constantly upgrading and replacing old tools. It I had a custom cutout, I would have to redo the foam each time.
while this stuff is a good idea its actually been around for decades. its comparable to the foam you throw away when you buy things like sensitive electronics, musical instruments, furniture and even tool boxes to name a few. its mainly used to protect corners in shipping and its usually white and sometimes rigid or soft depending on what the item is. i've dug it out of the trash to ship items for years and i've used it in my portable tool cases.
Where is everyone complaining about high cost getting their foam? Five 2x4 sheets of 57 mil is $30 per sheet, with freight from Fastcap. What are you organizing sockets, drivers, or wrenches with that will organize 8 Sq feet for $30? I considered Toolbox Widget. Cost $25 to only hold 11 to 15 drivers or wrenches.
I wonder if I could use my Glowforge laser to control the depth of the cut? I think it would be kinda cool to display some tools on the wall with that stuff!
Kaizen foam also drills really well on the drill press. I use it for router bits, I drilled a bunch of 1/4 and 1/2 holes for the shanks. I have it in some drawers, not others
Never used it but I have as many of my tools on the wall as I can. I follow the Matthias Wandel method. No french cleats (sorry). I do have peg board for a few of my tools (18 hammers actually) but otherwise I use plywood and then make custom wooden holders for all the other tools, bits and gadgets. I use drawers (an old map/architecture drawing cabinet) for my hardware such as screws, bolts, nuts, nails, etc. etc. Would try kaizen foam if it wasn't so expensive. A little too pricey for me. I enjoyed the video love seeing your shop and shop projects! Thanks!
I have used Kaizen foam and it works very well. Rockler now sells a comparable product for about half the cost and it works as well or better than the Kaizen foam. Either way I suggest their use as it get your tools organized so you can find what you need.
I use it in my pelican case that stores my guns when I travel. I also use it in my concealment drawers for my pistols. Never considered it for tools, but that's because space is premium right now. Maybe when my shop space grows I can do this for organization.
Good video, thanks for sparking this conversation. Here where I work, it's used with protective cases for delicate testing tools. I find it very easy to use and does the job required extremely well. Take care!
Military aviation the shadow box technique is mandatory for FOD. Tool missing the plane doesn't fly. A yahoo home mechanic cutting foam for his harbor freight tools is a waste-o-time and space.
Agree with your thoughts. I seems perfect for stationary applications. Such as specific tools that are of then needed. Drills and other power tools. However it would never make its way into my large tool box where tools are pretty regularly being replaced or new tools added
Have organized tons of tools at work using similar foam. I usually use a router. Makes nice smooth outline Cnc route would be super precise but time consuming.
i think using foam for something like this, where you need tools at stations or something along those lines makes sense. i see guys doing up their whole tool box drawer by drawer like this and i just can't imagine doing it. wrench racks that hold your box ends and open ends up on the edge will fit 2 or 3 wrenches in the space of one laying flat, and other solutions are just better for bulk storage.
I've got an entire standup toolbox lined with it but when I redo my layout, l will not be going back to it. So much wasted space. I also have it in my CNC cabinet and it's awesome there.
Never used it in my personal shop, did use it for a manufacturing job building Welding/ Medical Regulators... had 15 drawers full of it and after a year we switched from this to Magnetic holders for our wrenches, sockets and breaker bars... the foam just didnt hold up in a production inviroment. So ya for those reasons id pass on foam
I really think I'd like this stuff, I have being renovating our house and it's meant I've got a bench full of new tools but no storage for them yet. I'd love to take some time out to get this level of organisation.
No you are correct the longer it sits the harder it is to pull apart if it was welded correctly. I used to make 1/2” and weld to 1” polypropylene sheet foam. I think this is polyethylene so lower temp but it’s heated back to weld the sheeted together. Then as it cools it cures and bonds together stronger and stronger over time.
I agree. The cost of this material is too high. I cannot afford a cost of maybe 30€ for every drawer. Sad, because it could have been the ultimate solution to have a place for every tool. The major pro is that you see immediately if you miss a tool, when you tidy up your drawers and your shop.
@@alexarnz1 I'm starting a project to organize my shop using rigid insulation foam. This is available at our local Home Depot for $30 per sheet. That's about $1/sq ft or at most $4 per drawer. Rather than cutting it by hand, I will be cutting it on the CNC.
Hey man. I just wanted to tell you that you can get a cleaner shot when doing your intro narrative scene. If you go into manual mode on the camera and lower your aperture to as low as it'll go (regular lens are f3. 5, some fancy ones go F1. 4), you will start getting a nice blurry background effect but you'll be in focus. You might have to raise up the ISO and mess with the shutter speed (maybe like 1/250). If that's not your thing, no problem!
@@AGlimpseInside oh man! If you think about it, that's a very expensive camera (of course it can be used for lots of other things). I use the Canon M50 for ~$550 and it's a beast when you go full manual mode. Love the channel, keep up the good work.
Good evening Chris, It's great stuff but the expense is high. 2x4x 2" piece costs almost $50.00. A little high for my blood. But thanks for showing it off.
But... You have a cnc, it may take definitely more time to program, but you could use regular foam (not layered) and remove the depth you need. Really contouring. Just take a picture of your tool and vector the picture surrounding. Definitely cheaper than kaizen
Along similar lines, I've had best results with 3 different types of foam using a 1/4" shank trim router with various small straight cut router bits/milling cutters. You still have to trace each outline manually but the finish and depth control is way better than a flat, non flexible craft knife! Just make sure you have a vacuum on hand.
Pricey stuff, although I imagine it has it's place. I came across a guy who used a more affordable foam and sprayed with plasti-dip. Seems to be a little time consuming waiting for coats to dry but certainly more affordable.
It's great for certain drawers where it stops you from overfilling a drawer and then it's hard to find anything, but it also means it's difficult to add new things. If you change to a different drill, add a drill, replace that dead blow mallet, etc., you almost have to get a whole new piece of foam. Also, you have a cnc, and you aren't using it to cut out the shapes?
Good points all around. To cut out individual shapes for individual tools‘s actually quite a bit of work modeling in the software. Plus this foam is much more accessible to many of us makers. I definitely have more CNC content coming but this was just something I figured was easily accessible to most people
Nice idea but there are 2 drawbacks besides the price. 1, To much time involved to do it right, and 2, the way you have to lay out your tools takes up to much space. Even organized to take up as little room as possible and still be identifiable to know when something is missing and be able to find them when I need them, my 72" box is running out of room.
I use foam kids blocks, and I drill and gouge them and it works great, but mainly on smaller stuff, but the cost of kids foam blocks is pretty gosh darn good, but not as workable.
Another "Con" is that Kaizen foam and other foam inserts can degrade or even melt if the tool box is exposed to heat for long periods of time. I found this out when I stored a camera in a foam lined black Zero Halliburton case in an unvented attic. Nearly destroyed the camera after 6 months in storage. What a mess cleaning up all the goo. For large numbers of combo wrenches, sockets, and screwdrivers I've had better luck with 36 inch Montezuma tool case.
Great video! You can save also save a ton of space by flipping the multi tool blade around so the length runs along the tool instead of extending out :)
If you have to ask whether it is worth it, you might be slow! When you know where your tools are, you aren’t hunting for them. It isn’t hard, people make things hard. This came to my attention when I was in the Air National Guard. This was in 1985, long before Kaisan was a thing. Military is organization. That’s not new, in aviation, tools and equipment must be kept up with. Can’t be leaving things around to get ingested by engines or shorting out electronics. That’s the sort of thing that costs lives and Class A assets as well as mission failure. Can’t afford that kind of stupidity. No way! Is it everyone’s cup of tea, no. Thing is there is no time for not knowing where your tools or equipment are. Saves time and decreases waste of company up time. It’s not hard, people make things hard. You can do without it, but it makes you a more productive person for your company and your country. Press on! Stay safe my mates!😊👍🏻😷
So do I. We've been using this process for years and we laser cut out spaces for tools. It also doesn't cost nearly what this "branded consumer" foam does. For a more cost effective solution for the consumer, I'd recommend getting a sheet or two of rigid foam underlayment insulation like they put on the outside of houses before the siding goes on. If you don't like the color, you can spray paint it.and it's much cheaper.
I saw another video where the person used painter's tape then marked his tools and then removed the tape makes it easier to see your line while tracing
@@AGlimpseInside someone who wishes they could get 5 minutes of their life back; and they hope that by liking the comment they might save another youtuber.
No chance to pay 80$ for a foam which cost less than a dollar to produce. Eva foam floor mats wins all the way. You can buy about any thickness from 1mm to about 2 inches and if needed they can be glued together to necessary thickness. EVA IS MORE RIGID as well. Cost about 3.50 to 7 bucks a drawer. Cons is more difficult to cut best way is to use hot wire. Can buy for 50$ to 100$ or buy second hand and sell on... or better build one for 20 bucks and keep it. So all in all... mathematically speaking.. for two of your drawers I can do 10 of them with Eva. Esthetic are 2x better. Longer lasting through rigidity... However I do love your project. Its faster if you don't have the time and easier to produce. It's simple and results are similar to EVA mats. But it can be done for fraction of your price and it can be much better looking. Let's be honest most people can't afford 80 for few feet of foam... not if you have common sense and time to spend.
Advertising for this says that you can peel layers off to make it less thick. This is BS. The layers do not come away from each other cleanly at all and you'll have very uneven spots. So my suggestion is to live with the thickness you get and be careful choosing. I purchased mine from Rocklers Hardware I believe it's the same product.
My kit is designed to be mobile, so I’ve used Kaizen foam pretty heavily. One benefit is that it’s easy to see if something is missing before packing up at the end of the day. Another is that it keeps the tools in place during transit.
That’s a great point about having all your tools at a glance. And knowing what’s missing. Thanks brother
@@AGlimpseInside *at a glimpse
😏😉😂
Great point because lord knows we’ve all left tools behind haha
The biggest "Con" for me is the cost. That stuff is massively expensive, IMHO. I've been working on cheaper solutions using stuff like what you'd get at a craft store. I'm still experimenting but making progress. The other "Con" for me is that once you've cut the foam, you can't just add something new unless there happens to be space left.
Have you tried the interlocking floor matting designed for gyms etc? It's thinner but wayyyy cheaper. Walmart in US/Canada sell 4 sheets, 2' x 2' x about 11mm thick for CAD$14 + tax
@Tom Pennington exactly. You use the foam mats for the bulk then I use an alternate colour yoga Mat on top. Spray adhesive them together.
@@tjp148 That's a great idea. No, I haven't yet, but I've actually got a couple of old squares in my garage now that I wouldn't mind cutting up for an experiment. Have you tried it?
@@porthose2002 yeah I have, it’s more difficult to draw outlines onto so use 2” wide masking/painters tape to cover the area you’re going to cut out, then draw your tool outline onto that.
It’s way more dense than standard “kaizen foam” so don’t go too quick with the blade you use, and use the absolute sharpest blade you can find. Make several passes rather than trying to cut full depth all in one go.
I commented somewhere about using a router to remove large areas of foam for consistent depth control, this technique is more beneficial in these floor mats because you can’t tear it with your fingers easily
Good luck!
that is my issue as well is the cost of this stuff. So insanely over priced
It's always the Cost.
That being said, I have two additions to it:
1) The cost is greatly reduced if you buy direct and all at one time. I looked at prices on Amazon and direct from Kaizen and it was always through the roof. BUT if you buy direct from Kaizen and exceed $100, the shipping is free. So I ended up getting four 2x4 sheets at basically $25 per sheet instead of one sheet at $50+ each. HUGE savings. Just took the commitment.
2) The real savings is the organization and the life it adds to your tools. My hunt for tools is reduced to Zero. That time factor alone is worth it. Not just the tool, but the tool for the tool like a wrench and extra bits that go with an angle grinder. No more hunting. It's all there. Added benefit: Less swearing.
Also, the life of my tools is much longer now. No more banging them around as I dig past to get to another tool reducing their usability.
It's all worth it.
ow do you buy it from Kaizen i cant find the websight
They have been using it for a long time in the military/aviation community for positive tool control. You use the thinner 1/2" sheet with a contrasting color (usually yellow) so missing tools really show. I retired over 20 years ago and we were using it then.
I love the idea. I use 3D printing in the same way.
A cheaper medium can be the foam floor tiles that link together, they are about half inch thick, I use the first layer uncut then as many cut layes as you need to keep the tools snug.
There is a very nice tip! I never though about the lower thickness and stability of the foam. I want to put my tools in the wall and I think Im gonna use MDF for it. Thanks for the nice vídeo!
Thanks for the video! I've been wondering about this stuff, how it is to work with etc. I can definitely see it taking a while to cut out and probably best reserved for sensitive / expensive equipment.
Really like the idea, I have used 3D printing in a similar manner. With the print you can cut the walls thinner, create vertical space, use elastic material or add labeling out of the box.
I have used it as a base layer in two firearm display boxes I have made. Its ability to handle the weight and uneven shapes was a major plus like you pointed out with the tools.
We use it all over the place in aerospace. Tool control and accountability is a thing. Doesn’t take much to bring a plane down.
Love it so neat and pretty and so versatile. Think my wife might like this in her night stand drawers for her tools too. Haha. awesome vlog buddy.
Awesome video and a great demonstration of how to handle the foam. Definitely planning on doing this to bring some organization to my growing router + router accessories + accessories for router accessories collection.
I use it in my studio for my camera equipment. It is, like you said, hyper organized but it was not as easy as I thought it would be. I have another 2x4 sheet that I have plans for in the workshop when I have time. I got mine from FastCap (I believe they are the creator).
I tried using similar products when I was a professional Auto mechanic and honestly for ANYONE who is always adding tools the cost doesn't warrant the use because as you add tools you have to pull the "old" foam, toss it, then BUY more to reconfigure your space and that can become a never ending process.
I have seen it used in a class room setting in Charlotte NC were it made it easy for the trainer to inventory the tools at the end of each class. That scenario was perfect because there was a specific set of tools for each class etc...
For some folks it may be a great investment but for me I would have to pass. Like I said tried something like it many years ago from either Snap On or Mac Tools, so long ago I can't remember lol! But I don remember it just didn't work out for me. =-)
Yeah if you’re constantly upgrading I can totally see that. But for those of us who have pretty much everything we need. Like say a leather worker who has every tool and piece of material here she needs this might be a pretty good option. I’m gonna use it sparingly but I totally understand what you’re saying
I just bought some of the Rockler’s new foam that is similar to the Kaizen foam. It’s one third the cost. It just came late this afternoon so I won’t be cutting it until tomorrow.
Pro tip for cutting this is to use a candle to heat your razor knife. The melting point on this is pretty low, so a hot razor knife goes through it like butter, and leaves a much cleaner edge.
ALL of my toolbox drawers have foam in them! You don't have as much room but you ALWAYS know if a tool is missing as well as being able to find any tool very fast! I just by generic closed cell foam from a local company in the depth to match my toolbox drawers. Wish I could post pictures!
The one negative that has really kept me from doing this stuff is upgradability. I'm constantly upgrading and replacing old tools. It I had a custom cutout, I would have to redo the foam each time.
Keep the cutouts then you redo it.
while this stuff is a good idea its actually been around for decades. its comparable to the foam you throw away when you buy things like sensitive electronics, musical instruments, furniture and even tool boxes to name a few. its mainly used to protect corners in shipping and its usually white and sometimes rigid or soft depending on what the item is. i've dug it out of the trash to ship items for years and i've used it in my portable tool cases.
Where is everyone complaining about high cost getting their foam? Five 2x4 sheets of 57 mil is $30 per sheet, with freight from Fastcap. What are you organizing sockets, drivers, or wrenches with that will organize 8 Sq feet for $30? I considered Toolbox Widget. Cost $25 to only hold 11 to 15 drivers or wrenches.
I really like the French Cleat myself, but for drawers I might give it a go. Have to set up my new tool box soon, hmmmmm....
Looks great and does keep everything neat, BUT the cost is expensive! Thanks for the videos
Just started using for select drawers. Great for special use/need tools like you showed or to protect fragile or measuring tools.
Good product to review. I think I will stick with that other wall hanger method 😁
So glad you caught that. Thank you so much man
There may even be a video on this channel about that "other" wall hanger method haha :)
I wonder if I could use my Glowforge laser to control the depth of the cut? I think it would be kinda cool to display some tools on the wall with that stuff!
Thanks Chris, I have never seen this foam before. Looks very handy.
I love this stuff. I have it in all my Toughsystem and Tstak boxes. Pretty much anything that holds power tools.
Kaizen foam also drills really well on the drill press. I use it for router bits, I drilled a bunch of 1/4 and 1/2 holes for the shanks. I have it in some drawers, not others
Great tip thank you Mike
@@AGlimpseInside I wish I could put pictures in these comments. I'd share some of my kaizen foam setups
@@mshedd8809 Send me some direct messages on Instagram if you’re on there I’d like to see it
Never used it but I have as many of my tools on the wall as I can. I follow the Matthias Wandel method. No french cleats (sorry). I do have peg board for a few of my tools (18 hammers actually) but otherwise I use plywood and then make custom wooden holders for all the other tools, bits and gadgets. I use drawers (an old map/architecture drawing cabinet) for my hardware such as screws, bolts, nuts, nails, etc. etc. Would try kaizen foam if it wasn't so expensive. A little too pricey for me. I enjoyed the video love seeing your shop and shop projects! Thanks!
I have used Kaizen foam and it works very well. Rockler now sells a comparable product for about half the cost and it works as well or better than the Kaizen foam. Either way I suggest their use as it get your tools organized so you can find what you need.
I use it in my pelican case that stores my guns when I travel. I also use it in my concealment drawers for my pistols. Never considered it for tools, but that's because space is premium right now. Maybe when my shop space grows I can do this for organization.
Good video, thanks for sparking this conversation. Here where I work, it's used with protective cases for delicate testing tools. I find it very easy to use and does the job required extremely well. Take care!
Good review. I have used more of that stuff than I can count. I mostly use it in Systainers. For deeper drawers and boxes, I use two layers.
Pretty nice, Chris! Thanks! 😃
I need to find something like that here in Brazil!
Anyway, stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
We did this to all our toolboxes in the Air Force and it let you know if any tool was missing and very easy to find .
Military aviation the shadow box technique is mandatory for FOD. Tool missing the plane doesn't fly. A yahoo home mechanic cutting foam for his harbor freight tools is a waste-o-time and space.
@@robertkotula5389 that’s one way to look at it. I like it and think it’s a good idea.
Agree with your thoughts. I seems perfect for stationary applications. Such as specific tools that are of then needed. Drills and other power tools. However it would never make its way into my large tool box where tools are pretty regularly being replaced or new tools added
Thank you. Good, straightforward video.
Love this stuff use it in my draws that hold my measuring equipment because it protects and organises
We have Shadow Foam here in the UK. Same sort of stuff. Great for one’s OCD!
Love the draw cabinet it was put into. Was is made or can I purchase one somewhere?
I made it. Do you have plans on Etsy tho. Search “a glimpse inside Shop
Have organized tons of tools at work using similar foam. I usually use a router. Makes nice smooth outline Cnc route would be super precise but time consuming.
I get a bunch of this stuff out of the Inverter and battery boxes. It's excellent. Never knew what it was called until now
i think using foam for something like this, where you need tools at stations or something along those lines makes sense. i see guys doing up their whole tool box drawer by drawer like this and i just can't imagine doing it. wrench racks that hold your box ends and open ends up on the edge will fit 2 or 3 wrenches in the space of one laying flat, and other solutions are just better for bulk storage.
Unless you're in aviation, foam is just a waste. Wasted space. Wasted time cutting and a waste of money.
Time and place for foam. For camera kits it is very important.
I always felt they caused a lot of wasted space but definitely make my OCD tendencies happy
Yes I agree, looks great and tidy but you can put almost twice as much in drawer without it...and it’s not cheap
Hello, good morning, what material is used in the manufacture of Kaizen foam, thank you Abel
I've got an entire standup toolbox lined with it but when I redo my layout, l will not be going back to it. So much wasted space. I also have it in my CNC cabinet and it's awesome there.
Never used it in my personal shop, did use it for a manufacturing job building Welding/ Medical Regulators... had 15 drawers full of it and after a year we switched from this to Magnetic holders for our wrenches, sockets and breaker bars... the foam just didnt hold up in a production inviroment. So ya for those reasons id pass on foam
I really think I'd like this stuff, I have being renovating our house and it's meant I've got a bench full of new tools but no storage for them yet. I'd love to take some time out to get this level of organisation.
No you are correct the longer it sits the harder it is to pull apart if it was welded correctly. I used to make 1/2” and weld to 1” polypropylene sheet foam. I think this is polyethylene so lower temp but it’s heated back to weld the sheeted together. Then as it cools it cures and bonds together stronger and stronger over time.
Very nice. Thanks for clarifying cause I really had no clue.
For me the biggest con is $$$. Can’t imagine using all through a shop, but strategic use would be great.
Love the new shop mascot..... (quack)
Haha thanks man. Hope all is well. Quack 🦆
I agree. The cost of this material is too high.
I cannot afford a cost of maybe 30€ for every drawer.
Sad, because it could have been the ultimate solution to have a place for every tool.
The major pro is that you see immediately if you miss a tool, when you tidy up your drawers and your shop.
@@alexarnz1 I'm starting a project to organize my shop using rigid insulation foam. This is available at our local Home Depot for $30 per sheet. That's about $1/sq ft or at most $4 per drawer. Rather than cutting it by hand, I will be cutting it on the CNC.
Got myself some foam. To be honest yes it is neat, but is a massive waste of space. Not sure I can justify continuing with it.
Or is requirement of the job like Aviation it’s called Tool Control Policy and I use it at home to keep up with my tools.
Good for storing sensitive electronic tools and shows at a glance if any have not been cleaned and put away.
do you think i can make a foam wall for my promaster without tools flying out?
Hey man. I just wanted to tell you that you can get a cleaner shot when doing your intro narrative scene. If you go into manual mode on the camera and lower your aperture to as low as it'll go (regular lens are f3. 5, some fancy ones go F1. 4), you will start getting a nice blurry background effect but you'll be in focus. You might have to raise up the ISO and mess with the shutter speed (maybe like 1/250). If that's not your thing, no problem!
I’ve only used iPhones man! So….haha maybe in post👍
@@AGlimpseInside oh man! If you think about it, that's a very expensive camera (of course it can be used for lots of other things). I use the Canon M50 for ~$550 and it's a beast when you go full manual mode. Love the channel, keep up the good work.
True. I edit on the phone too. Yeah it wears many hats. Thanks for the nice words.
looks so nice and professional!!!!!
Good evening Chris, It's great stuff but the expense is high. 2x4x 2" piece costs almost $50.00. A little high for my blood. But thanks for showing it off.
Great vid!
But... You have a cnc, it may take definitely more time to program, but you could use regular foam (not layered) and remove the depth you need. Really contouring. Just take a picture of your tool and vector the picture surrounding. Definitely cheaper than kaizen
I like this idea. Never thought of it as I’m still new to the capabilities of this machine
Along similar lines, I've had best results with 3 different types of foam using a 1/4" shank trim router with various small straight cut router bits/milling cutters. You still have to trace each outline manually but the finish and depth control is way better than a flat, non flexible craft knife! Just make sure you have a vacuum on hand.
Thanks for the review Bro
Pricey stuff, although I imagine it has it's place. I came across a guy who used a more affordable foam and sprayed with plasti-dip. Seems to be a little time consuming waiting for coats to dry but certainly more affordable.
It's great for certain drawers where it stops you from overfilling a drawer and then it's hard to find anything, but it also means it's difficult to add new things. If you change to a different drill, add a drill, replace that dead blow mallet, etc., you almost have to get a whole new piece of foam.
Also, you have a cnc, and you aren't using it to cut out the shapes?
Good points all around. To cut out individual shapes for individual tools‘s actually quite a bit of work modeling in the software. Plus this foam is much more accessible to many of us makers. I definitely have more CNC content coming but this was just something I figured was easily accessible to most people
Oh I realize it would be a ton of extra work, but you have a cnc, its the principle of the matter, ya know?
Nice idea but there are 2 drawbacks besides the price. 1, To much time involved to do it right, and 2, the way you have to lay out your tools takes up to much space. Even organized to take up as little room as possible and still be identifiable to know when something is missing and be able to find them when I need them, my 72" box is running out of room.
I use foam kids blocks, and I drill and gouge them and it works great, but mainly on smaller stuff, but the cost of kids foam blocks is pretty gosh darn good, but not as workable.
Another "Con" is that Kaizen foam and other foam inserts can degrade or even melt if the tool box is exposed to heat for long periods of time.
I found this out when I stored a camera in a foam lined black Zero Halliburton case in an unvented attic.
Nearly destroyed the camera after 6 months in storage. What a mess cleaning up all the goo.
For large numbers of combo wrenches, sockets, and screwdrivers I've had better luck with 36 inch Montezuma tool case.
Try cutting it on the CNC?
I remember seeing people with briefcases of Warhammer figurines held down by foam, back in the day! :p
I remember that too. I have a buddy that does extensive work with large box cases with this phone to hold his Gundam
I think these are good for large tools like drills and stuff to keep the buttons freon mashing around
Great video! You can save also save a ton of space by flipping the multi tool blade around so the length runs along the tool instead of extending out :)
I just started using it too. I like it.
wait !! how do you use the multi tool to remove brad nails ??
I used the cheap foam mats you get for camping at walmart
Looks like some good stuff dude.
If you have to ask whether it is worth it, you might be slow! When you know where your tools are, you aren’t hunting for them. It isn’t hard, people make things hard. This came to my attention when I was in the Air National Guard. This was in 1985, long before Kaisan was a thing. Military is organization. That’s not new, in aviation, tools and equipment must be kept up with. Can’t be leaving things around to get ingested by engines or shorting out electronics. That’s the sort of thing that costs lives and Class A assets as well as mission failure. Can’t afford that kind of stupidity. No way! Is it everyone’s cup of tea, no. Thing is there is no time for not knowing where your tools or equipment are. Saves time and decreases waste of company up time. It’s not hard, people make things hard. You can do without it, but it makes you a more productive person for your company and your country. Press on! Stay safe my mates!😊👍🏻😷
I work around airplanes so we have to shadow all of our tools this way too make sure no tools get lost in engines
So do I. We've been using this process for years and we laser cut out spaces for tools. It also doesn't cost nearly what this "branded consumer" foam does. For a more cost effective solution for the consumer, I'd recommend getting a sheet or two of rigid foam underlayment insulation like they put on the outside of houses before the siding goes on. If you don't like the color, you can spray paint it.and it's much cheaper.
Nice!
Definitely the way to go if you have a limited amount of tools that you constantly use.
I saw another video where the person used painter's tape then marked his tools and then removed the tape makes it easier to see your line while tracing
That’s pretty good idea
My job requires us to have ALL of our tools "shadowed" in a foam layer. And every drawer must inventoried.
That's how it was in the army shit I got real good real fast at keeping track of my tools lol
@@Mr.Thermistor7228 this would have saved me from a Statement of Charges for losing tools. Thanks for your service Jeff. Go ARMY!!
@@woodworksbygrampies1284 lol your toolboxes didn't already have them?
Pros & Cons starts @ 5:06
👆Who likes their own comment 👆
@@AGlimpseInside someone who wishes they could get 5 minutes of their life back; and they hope that by liking the comment they might save another youtuber.
@4:05 .. nice!
It looks good but I don't think I've got enough space.
Kaizen foam is far to pour a use of space to use on job sites. And even for in shops, shelving seems like a far better use of space 90% of the time.
Has CNC, manually cuts foam trays.
No chance to pay 80$ for a foam which cost less than a dollar to produce. Eva foam floor mats wins all the way. You can buy about any thickness from 1mm to about 2 inches and if needed they can be glued together to necessary thickness. EVA IS MORE RIGID as well. Cost about 3.50 to 7 bucks a drawer. Cons is more difficult to cut best way is to use hot wire. Can buy for 50$ to 100$ or buy second hand and sell on... or better build one for 20 bucks and keep it. So all in all... mathematically speaking.. for two of your drawers I can do 10 of them with Eva. Esthetic are 2x better. Longer lasting through rigidity... However I do love your project. Its faster if you don't have the time and easier to produce. It's simple and results are similar to EVA mats. But it can be done for fraction of your price and it can be much better looking. Let's be honest most people can't afford 80 for few feet of foam... not if you have common sense and time to spend.
Advertising for this says that you can peel layers off to make it less thick. This is BS. The layers do not come away from each other cleanly at all and you'll have very uneven spots. So my suggestion is to live with the thickness you get and be careful choosing. I purchased mine from Rocklers Hardware I believe it's the same product.
It’s true if the foam was manufactured a while back. I got some brand new stuff And peeled so easily and so cleanly
You said it’s “Foam rubber”. Is it ? It sure looks like polythene foam to me.
I think the price of what is actually only expanded foam is a BIG negative point...
Way to expensive. Sorry, but unless I hit the lottery, there will be no Kaizen foam for me.
TIP, Heat up a copper pipe with a torch to melt smooth finder pulls
This is a great tip thank you Ken
Not for me I fear. The cost is a bit prohibitive on my budget as well .
Hey man understandable brother
Why didn't you router it out?
For me, it is best only for delicate tools/equipment. But for shop hand tools and power tools? Nah
Is it just foam
Dude, you have a CNC. Use it for the foam!!
Imma do my kitchen silverware drawer like this and see what the wife says.
Oh that is so funny
It’s great for a gun case......for my tool box n’ such, no thanks!
You spent a lot of time showing how you cut it. I lost interest in trying to find out what is wrong with Kaizen.
🤩🍻🍺😊