Post by coredump on Mar 14, 2014 16:37:10 GMT
Here is how I put together my most recent carry case. It uses a magnetic sheet attached to a toolbox, and metal washers glued to the models. This is not quite as secure as a foam case, but gives me a lot more versatility in how the models fit in the case without having to swap out foam or pluck new openings.
You will need:
Toolbox or carry case. I got mine at Home Depot for <$15.
Magnetic Sheeting. I got mine at www.magnetking.com the sheets are much cheaper than the rolls. I used the .06 uncoated version.
Washers. I ordered from www.boltdepot.com Cheap and fast. You want *Fender* washers in 1", 1.5", and 2" versions.
Adhesive. I used both Loctite Outdoor adhesive, and Liquid Nails clear adhesive. They each have good/bad application issues, but they are both *plenty* strong once dry/cured.
First you need a carry box, or tool box.
I think the best option is the Dewalt TStak line. Lets you store and mix and match carry solutions. They are a lot more money.
My favorite find is the Stanley Click N Connect
www.homedepot.com/p/Stanley-Click-N-Connect-Deep-Tool-Box-and-Organizer-STST19900/204728455
It is dirt cheap, and you can add more of the bottom pieces for large armies. But I have *not seen* this one in person, so could not be sure of the dimensions. They sure seem big enough, but I was nervous and wanted to know what I was getting.
I got this one
www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-22-in-Tool-Box-with-Metal-Latches-New-206573/203431526
Cheap, sturdy, tall enough, and even has extra little compartments.
The depth is important. Measure your models and measure the depth of the bottom, and the tray, and any compartments.
Magnetic Sheeting
Thanks to Mobugs I found Magnetking.com They sell magnetic sheeting in various thicknesses, in sheets and in rolls. Turns out it is much cheaper to buy it in sheets (even big sheets) than to buy it in rolls.
You can get it with vinyl, but I just went for the uncoated version.
designer.realtimedesigner.com/magnetking/catalog/index.php&p=cGM9OTMwOCZwYzI9JnByPTQ2NzE1
A single 12" x 24" sheet was enough to do most of the toolbox I bought. But be aware, the shipping gets you. I bought 2 sheets for a total of $20. the shipping was $16. So make sure to get what you need in one order, perhaps share with a friend.
Washers
BoltDepot.com had the cheapest washers I could find, even with shipping it was cheaper than driving to Home Depot etc. Plus they had quite the selection. Turns out they were very fast delivery.
You want *fender* washers, those are the large washers with small holes. Get the cheapest. Don't worry about the size of the inside hole. Just be sure to *not* get stainless steel ones.
Adhesive
I sweated this one a bunch, ended up getting two different ones.
www.homedepot.com/p/Loctite-1-fl-oz-Stik-n-Seal-Outdoor-Adhesive-1716815/204217029
www.homedepot.com/p/Liquid-Nails-4-fl-oz-Small-Projects-and-Repairs-Adhesive-LN-700/100199287
Turns out... it just doesn't matter. Loctite cured faster, LN had a better applicator, etc. They both were *plenty strong* once cured. I even experimented by using 'not enough' on a couple of models... it was still plenty strong enough. I even broke a gaunt (accidently) testing how strong it was. Just a couple of dabs of either will work just fine.
You just need a thick adhesive, something like silicone etc. You don't want superglue etc.
Put it all together
Case
Pretty straightforward, measure the sections of toolbox you want to have magnetized, cut the sheeting, and glue it down. I used the liquid nails for this part (Its cheaper).
The sheets are only magnetized on one side, glue down the other side.
The sheeting cuts very easily, I used regular scissors.
I would do one thing differently... I would put down a thin wooden or plastic sheet to smooth out the bottom. It works fine as it is, but some of the larger models need to be placed in the center or they don't stick as well. Would need something to help support the sheet, either silicone adhesive, or a bit of greenstuff, etc.
You will need to work this out for yourself depending on which toolbox/case you get.
[More detail, skip if you want: The magnetic sheet is plenty to 'smooth' out a bumpy bottom. My toolbox has a middle part that was a bit higher than the side parts, so there is a flat center, then it slopes to the edges, and that section if fairly unsupported. It works okay for carnifexes, or warriors. But my armorcast Dactylis or metal hive tyrant needs more consistent contact/support. For now they go in the center flat area, otherwise I will need to pull up the magnetic sheeting and add the thin wood/plastic base.]
Rehkal (who gave me tons of info and inspiration, since he has done similar to this) uses foam on the sides. I have not found that necessary. YMMV.
Models
This is equally straighforward. Just put 1-4 small dabs on the base of the model. Press on the appropriate washer, hold for a few seconds, and stand up to dry/cure.
Ideally, experiment some. Grab a few models at each size and glue on the washers using various amounts of adhesive. Wait a day or two, and make sure they are strong enough. I was in a hurry so I used a 'reasonable' amount... which turns out to be way more than necessary.
Be sure the adhesive 'blob' reaches above the lip of the base, otherwise the washer will not make contact with the adhesive.
On the larger bases, I put the 'blob' on those little cylinders under the base, just to give it more to 'grab' onto.
For drying/curing, I recommend something flexible and easy to peel off. You will get some adhesive dripping down and gluing the models to whatever they are resting on. A piece of plastic tarp, or thick plastic wrap, etc.
My plan is to add washers as I need the models. No need to grind through attaching them all at once.
Thats it
Now all you do is put the models you need, in the toolbox and you are ready to go. You may want to test how much 'jarring' they can take before you load them all up and leave. This is especially true for metal and or tall models. As you will see, I have both and they are doing fine, though not as 'secure' as the rest.
Pictures
I am not overly happy with these pics, they don't show what I wanted them to show, but I think with explanation they will work. Let me know if otherwise.
The back half of the tray is magnetized. I will eventually magnetize the front half as well, or at least I will if I need the space.
There are warriors, metal biovores, and gaunts, all held very firmly.
There is a metal flyrant which is too top heavy for magnets, luckily he does okay for now just lying down.
Notice the top, there is more space in the middle than the left or right sides. Gaunts/stealers/etc fit just fine on the sides, the warriors go in the middle section.
Notice the tray is only 75%-ish of the width. I *think* that will let me put a trygon in that extra space on the left. (haven't tried it, don't own one.)
This is the same tray held on its side. Actually more than that, almost upside down. I can easily hold it upside down without anything falling; even the metal biovores.
There are two handy storage bins on top. They are surprisingly deep, and I may end up magnetizing them also, can fit a lot of models in there.
I am thinking about putting washers on the plastic dice cases, just to keep them from moving around so much.
Here is the bottom of the case. In the middle you can see the Dactylis and Exocrine, along with my metal hive tyrant (no arms or wings), and a two metal zoanthropes. (one is my poor conversion into a venomthrope). On the right are Shrikes and Warriors, on the left two carnifexes and two crones. (one without wings)
The standing metal hive tyrant, and the plastic crones on tall bases all made the trip just fine. I am sure they will be the first to fall if things go bad, but so far okay. And that is the trade off for some much flexibility.
I have about 2250 pts in there, with plenty of space not utilized.
Oh, by the way, it is hard to tell, but the case is actually on its side for that picture. (full disclosure, the metal hive tyrant is barely staying attached)
This is just a side shot in case anyone wanted a different angle.
The three sizes of washers, and examples of them being used.
Rehkal dremeled the inside of the bases so the washers would actually sit inside the base and not be visible, but he is both more talented, and more patient, than I am. I am hoping that once I decide on a basing scheme, and paint the edges of the washers, no one will be able to tell.
Conclusion
This was pretty straightforward, and I still managed to write 500 pages... thank god I don't do anything complicated...
Thanks to Rehkal and Mobugs for advice and/or inspiration. Mobug is doing something similar, but better. (think different size plastic cases, with homemade trays that can go in and out.) Someday I may do something similar, but this seems to work for me for now.
Again, this a trade-off. This is not as secure as a KR case, or battlefoam, or whatever. If I drop this case 4-5', badness will happen. OTOH, this is *much* easier for placing my warriors with their funky scyTals and my weird TMCs that I keep swapping around every couple of games. And it is plenty secure for normal travel by car or subway. It can be jostled and jarred, just not dropped. (I think a lot of the models could even handle being dropped, but not all of them.)
In just materials... my army in this case is about $30. I spent more than that because I have extra magnetic sheeting, washers, etc. Oh, and shipping added another $25.
If you have any questions, or need other pictures, let me know.
You will need:
Toolbox or carry case. I got mine at Home Depot for <$15.
Magnetic Sheeting. I got mine at www.magnetking.com the sheets are much cheaper than the rolls. I used the .06 uncoated version.
Washers. I ordered from www.boltdepot.com Cheap and fast. You want *Fender* washers in 1", 1.5", and 2" versions.
Adhesive. I used both Loctite Outdoor adhesive, and Liquid Nails clear adhesive. They each have good/bad application issues, but they are both *plenty* strong once dry/cured.
First you need a carry box, or tool box.
I think the best option is the Dewalt TStak line. Lets you store and mix and match carry solutions. They are a lot more money.
My favorite find is the Stanley Click N Connect
www.homedepot.com/p/Stanley-Click-N-Connect-Deep-Tool-Box-and-Organizer-STST19900/204728455
It is dirt cheap, and you can add more of the bottom pieces for large armies. But I have *not seen* this one in person, so could not be sure of the dimensions. They sure seem big enough, but I was nervous and wanted to know what I was getting.
I got this one
www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-22-in-Tool-Box-with-Metal-Latches-New-206573/203431526
Cheap, sturdy, tall enough, and even has extra little compartments.
The depth is important. Measure your models and measure the depth of the bottom, and the tray, and any compartments.
Magnetic Sheeting
Thanks to Mobugs I found Magnetking.com They sell magnetic sheeting in various thicknesses, in sheets and in rolls. Turns out it is much cheaper to buy it in sheets (even big sheets) than to buy it in rolls.
You can get it with vinyl, but I just went for the uncoated version.
designer.realtimedesigner.com/magnetking/catalog/index.php&p=cGM9OTMwOCZwYzI9JnByPTQ2NzE1
A single 12" x 24" sheet was enough to do most of the toolbox I bought. But be aware, the shipping gets you. I bought 2 sheets for a total of $20. the shipping was $16. So make sure to get what you need in one order, perhaps share with a friend.
Washers
BoltDepot.com had the cheapest washers I could find, even with shipping it was cheaper than driving to Home Depot etc. Plus they had quite the selection. Turns out they were very fast delivery.
You want *fender* washers, those are the large washers with small holes. Get the cheapest. Don't worry about the size of the inside hole. Just be sure to *not* get stainless steel ones.
Adhesive
I sweated this one a bunch, ended up getting two different ones.
www.homedepot.com/p/Loctite-1-fl-oz-Stik-n-Seal-Outdoor-Adhesive-1716815/204217029
www.homedepot.com/p/Liquid-Nails-4-fl-oz-Small-Projects-and-Repairs-Adhesive-LN-700/100199287
Turns out... it just doesn't matter. Loctite cured faster, LN had a better applicator, etc. They both were *plenty strong* once cured. I even experimented by using 'not enough' on a couple of models... it was still plenty strong enough. I even broke a gaunt (accidently) testing how strong it was. Just a couple of dabs of either will work just fine.
You just need a thick adhesive, something like silicone etc. You don't want superglue etc.
Put it all together
Case
Pretty straightforward, measure the sections of toolbox you want to have magnetized, cut the sheeting, and glue it down. I used the liquid nails for this part (Its cheaper).
The sheets are only magnetized on one side, glue down the other side.
The sheeting cuts very easily, I used regular scissors.
I would do one thing differently... I would put down a thin wooden or plastic sheet to smooth out the bottom. It works fine as it is, but some of the larger models need to be placed in the center or they don't stick as well. Would need something to help support the sheet, either silicone adhesive, or a bit of greenstuff, etc.
You will need to work this out for yourself depending on which toolbox/case you get.
[More detail, skip if you want: The magnetic sheet is plenty to 'smooth' out a bumpy bottom. My toolbox has a middle part that was a bit higher than the side parts, so there is a flat center, then it slopes to the edges, and that section if fairly unsupported. It works okay for carnifexes, or warriors. But my armorcast Dactylis or metal hive tyrant needs more consistent contact/support. For now they go in the center flat area, otherwise I will need to pull up the magnetic sheeting and add the thin wood/plastic base.]
Rehkal (who gave me tons of info and inspiration, since he has done similar to this) uses foam on the sides. I have not found that necessary. YMMV.
Models
This is equally straighforward. Just put 1-4 small dabs on the base of the model. Press on the appropriate washer, hold for a few seconds, and stand up to dry/cure.
Ideally, experiment some. Grab a few models at each size and glue on the washers using various amounts of adhesive. Wait a day or two, and make sure they are strong enough. I was in a hurry so I used a 'reasonable' amount... which turns out to be way more than necessary.
Be sure the adhesive 'blob' reaches above the lip of the base, otherwise the washer will not make contact with the adhesive.
On the larger bases, I put the 'blob' on those little cylinders under the base, just to give it more to 'grab' onto.
For drying/curing, I recommend something flexible and easy to peel off. You will get some adhesive dripping down and gluing the models to whatever they are resting on. A piece of plastic tarp, or thick plastic wrap, etc.
My plan is to add washers as I need the models. No need to grind through attaching them all at once.
Thats it
Now all you do is put the models you need, in the toolbox and you are ready to go. You may want to test how much 'jarring' they can take before you load them all up and leave. This is especially true for metal and or tall models. As you will see, I have both and they are doing fine, though not as 'secure' as the rest.
Pictures
I am not overly happy with these pics, they don't show what I wanted them to show, but I think with explanation they will work. Let me know if otherwise.
The back half of the tray is magnetized. I will eventually magnetize the front half as well, or at least I will if I need the space.
There are warriors, metal biovores, and gaunts, all held very firmly.
There is a metal flyrant which is too top heavy for magnets, luckily he does okay for now just lying down.
Notice the top, there is more space in the middle than the left or right sides. Gaunts/stealers/etc fit just fine on the sides, the warriors go in the middle section.
Notice the tray is only 75%-ish of the width. I *think* that will let me put a trygon in that extra space on the left. (haven't tried it, don't own one.)
This is the same tray held on its side. Actually more than that, almost upside down. I can easily hold it upside down without anything falling; even the metal biovores.
There are two handy storage bins on top. They are surprisingly deep, and I may end up magnetizing them also, can fit a lot of models in there.
I am thinking about putting washers on the plastic dice cases, just to keep them from moving around so much.
Here is the bottom of the case. In the middle you can see the Dactylis and Exocrine, along with my metal hive tyrant (no arms or wings), and a two metal zoanthropes. (one is my poor conversion into a venomthrope). On the right are Shrikes and Warriors, on the left two carnifexes and two crones. (one without wings)
The standing metal hive tyrant, and the plastic crones on tall bases all made the trip just fine. I am sure they will be the first to fall if things go bad, but so far okay. And that is the trade off for some much flexibility.
I have about 2250 pts in there, with plenty of space not utilized.
Oh, by the way, it is hard to tell, but the case is actually on its side for that picture. (full disclosure, the metal hive tyrant is barely staying attached)
This is just a side shot in case anyone wanted a different angle.
The three sizes of washers, and examples of them being used.
Rehkal dremeled the inside of the bases so the washers would actually sit inside the base and not be visible, but he is both more talented, and more patient, than I am. I am hoping that once I decide on a basing scheme, and paint the edges of the washers, no one will be able to tell.
Conclusion
This was pretty straightforward, and I still managed to write 500 pages... thank god I don't do anything complicated...
Thanks to Rehkal and Mobugs for advice and/or inspiration. Mobug is doing something similar, but better. (think different size plastic cases, with homemade trays that can go in and out.) Someday I may do something similar, but this seems to work for me for now.
Again, this a trade-off. This is not as secure as a KR case, or battlefoam, or whatever. If I drop this case 4-5', badness will happen. OTOH, this is *much* easier for placing my warriors with their funky scyTals and my weird TMCs that I keep swapping around every couple of games. And it is plenty secure for normal travel by car or subway. It can be jostled and jarred, just not dropped. (I think a lot of the models could even handle being dropped, but not all of them.)
In just materials... my army in this case is about $30. I spent more than that because I have extra magnetic sheeting, washers, etc. Oh, and shipping added another $25.
If you have any questions, or need other pictures, let me know.
"
