Custom Multi Tool Case

Hi, my name is Jeff and I am a Maker.

When I started volunteering in my local Library's Maker Space, I was influenced by the new technology to design and make new things.

I had been wanting to build a replacement for the leather case I used for over 20 years to hold my Multi Tool. It sat uncomfortably high on my belt, didn't show off the Multi Tool and was not easily removed or inserted. And when I saw Adam Savages one day build of his custom metal case I was inspired to create my own design.

I designed and made my custom case using the resources at my local Library's maker Space.

For this project you will need access to:

- Multi Tool

- 3D Scanner

-TinkerCad (Free Online Design Software)

-3D Printer

-Hand Tools

The final step has a build video of my process. Please follow and subscribe to see all my design.

I covered my multi Tool with painters tape. My tool was stainless steel, so the 3D scanners laser would reflect without the tape. It takes 9 minutes to scan the object.

Our local library has a 3D scanner accessible to the community for free. It is straight forward to use, following the step by step instructions on the screen. (But if anyone is interested I can create a Instructable on how I 3D scan objects.)

I want the 3D Mesh Model of my Multi Tool to build a custom case around it using TinkerCad.

Import the 3D scan into TinkerCad, a free online 3D Design Software.

www.tinkercad.com

If there is interest I can create a Instructable on how to use TinkerCad but their website has tutorials for new users. The software is very easy to learn and I volunteer at our Maker Space teaching, kids 5 years old up to retirees, how to 3D Design with this software.

The video at the end of this Instructable has a spoken tutorial on the process below:

- Use the software's blocks to build a case around the scan. I didn't take any measurements, and eyed the size and shape that looked and felt right for me.

- Use the hole tool on the scan to hollow out the case for an exact fit for the tool.

- I created a slot in the front so the tool can be easily removed with one finger.

- I wanted a maker theme so I used the software's text tools to add this. I turned the text on the sides to holes so the tool will show through.

- Use blocks and holes to create a loop for the belt to go through.

- I added holes in the back to tweak the design to how I waned it to look.

Our local Library has a 3D printer that is free and accessible to the public. Check what is available in your community or use an online 3D Printer service to print out your design.

I printed in standard resolution, 10% infill, with raft and supports. This printer used PLA filament and had a wide selection of colour choices. The print took 3 hours.

Once completed I used needle nose pliers, small file, dental pick and hobby knife to remove support material.

I love the new Maker Theme look over the old traditional leather case.

The multi tool snaps into place in the new 3D printed case.

In future designs I would tweak it so the belt loop has some rotation but as a first draft the project was a success.

I have included a build video of my design process. My Build Video

Please follow and subscribe to see all my designs.

Thanks for the interest in my Custom Multi Tool Case.

Cheers, Jeff