Items Used In This Project
NOTE: This design requires a laser cutter with a narrow kerf (focused and narrow beam) along with a calibrated width and length. It is designed for 2MM material. If you are unsure your laser cutter has a very narrow kerf, please try these test cuts to verify this design will work for you before purchasing.
Assembly Tips
See the assembly section for tips on assembling this project.
Flexible
Mix and match bin sizes to fit your needs. Includes 2 bin heights and 3 bin sizes.
Expandable
Includes base plates in 2 sizes. Interlocking tabs lock the plates into position for the optimum fit.
Convenient
Remove individual bins. Take bins to your work area. Removable bins make it easy to rearrange your storage to keep like items together The lifting tab makes it easy to remove or insert bins.
Use your existing drawers or trays for organized storage.
Stable
Bins interlock with the base plate slots to prevent bins from shifting.
Bins
Bin Type A *
Height: 1 inch/25 mm (Including lift tab)
Size AA: 1.5 x 1.5 inches (37.5 mm x 37.5 mm)
Size AB: 1.5 x 3.0 inches (37.5 mm x 75 mm)
Size BB: 3.0 x 3.0 inches (75 mm x 75 mm)
Bin Type C *
Height: 2.4 inches/62 mm (Including lift tab)
Size AA: 1.5 x 1.5 inches (37.5 mm x 37.5 mm)
Size AB: 1.5 x 3.0 inches (37.5 mm x 75 mm)
Size BB: 3.0 x 3.0 inches (75 mm x 75 mm)
Base Plates and Interlocks
Two base plate sizes are included *
6 x 6 inches (150mm x 150mm)
3 x 6 inches (75 mm x 150mm)
Interlocks are included to connect and properly space the base plates
* Inch measurements are approximate based on metric conversion. One inch = 25.4mm. Allow for slight variation in measurement due to laser cutter differences.
Assembly
The pieces of the project are intended to fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. They must be cut on a laser cutter with a very narrow kerf. If you are unsure, try cutting these test pieces before purchasing. Pieces should fit snugly.
The project was designed for 2mm thick material purchased here on Amazon. Any 2mm material should work as long as it cuts cleanly. The cut files were designed for material that is 6 x 8 inches (150mm x 200mm) in size.
Having issues? Email help@grokwhy for assistance. (Sorry, we can’t assist with your laser cutter.)
Base Plates
The edges of the base plates do not need to be exact, and can be slightly undersize. The base plate interlocks hold the plates at the proper distance for the bins to fit properly.
The base plates can be tricky to align in the laser cutter. The width of the base plates is also the width of the stock material; 6 inches (150mm).
Two versions of each base plate are provided. One version has a blue alignment line along the left edge of the design. In your cut software, turn the main red cut lines off, and set the power level for the blue line low so as not to actually cut the material. Use this blue line to align the left edge with the material.
Clean Laser Cut Residue/Excess Material
Verify your parts are clean after cutting. Use a brush or towel to remove cut residue.
Remove any excess material that wasn’t cut cleanly. This is particularly important along the base of the bins and the slots in the base plates. Excess material may cause the bins to seat unevenly or fit poorly.
Start with the Back of the Bin
Start with the bin bottom and back (tab panel) first. If you want a consistent look, always point the tab on the back panel to the right (or left) to start.
Use a scrap piece of MDF to hold the bin bottom off of your work surface. The tabs of the bin sides extend below the bin bottom to interlock with the base plates.
1-2-3 Block
Use a 1-2-3 block and magnet to hold the first piece to the bin bottom at a right angle while the glue sets. The glue sets quickly but is workable for a while.
Apply Glue to Recessed Edges
Apply the glue to the recessed edges of the piece, rather than the face of the piece. Generally, glue is applied to the slot edges, not the tab face.
Be careful with the tabs that extend from the bottom of the bin sides. They extend beyond the bottom of the bin to interlock with the base plate.
Tight Joints
Insure the glued seams are tight. It may be helpful to use the 1-2-3 block as a weight to press the piece together. A small clamp or rubber band may be helpful.
Remove Glue Squeeze-out
Remove the glue squeeze-out. A damp cloth can remove the excess glue easily right after it is applied. For the inner seams inside the bin, it may be easier to let the glue set for a few minutes and then scrape it off the bin.
Inspect the bottom of the bin after assembly. Ensure there is no excess glue that would prevent the bin from sitting flat and interlocking with the base plate.
Speed Demon
If you shooting for rapid assembly, work 2 bins at one time. While waiting for the glue to set on the first bin, you can start a second bin.
Test Cuts
Verify your laser cutter is compatible with this project by downloading the test file here. Verify the 2 square pieces interlock with minimal movement between parts.
Verify the tab and slot fit together with minimal movement from side to side.
