Customizable *non-3D-printed* 1/4" bit holder

thingiverse

I know this place is all about some 3D printing, and I even made a 3D-printable version of this concept, but I wanted a 1/4" hex bit holder larger than my 3D printer's build area, and besides, the time spent actually fabricating this thing was way less than a 3D print would have been. Basically, I've uploaded a Python script that takes a spreadsheet that you can edit in Excel or whatever (saved in CSV format) as input, and it produces a PDF suitable for printing. The spreadsheet describes the bits you want to store and the sizing for the holder. You print it, glue it to some 3/4" plywood or MDF, drill the holes where marked, and boom -- bit holder customized to your exact needs. The script requires Python 3.x and the Pyx library. (Note: My version looks a bit different from the published defaults, because I realized after making mine that the larger sockets made more sense in the back.) (The PS file included is to satisfy the Thingiverse rules robot, since it doesn't think a "PDF" can describe a Thing.) Instructions The script will generate a PDF suitable for gluing onto a piece of wood, so you can drill holes where marked, and store 1/4" bits in labeled spots. Configure by editing the CSV (comma-separated values) file in any spreadsheet software (Excel, OpenOffice Calc, etc.). See the CSV itself for format details. Run the script:python bitstorage.py [infile.csv] [outfile.pdf] Print the resulting PDF. Use a thin coat of wood glue to affix it to some 3/4" plywood or MDF. Let it dry. Cut the wood+label out along the lines with your saw of choice (jigsaw, circular saw, band saw -- I prefer the latter). You can even use a manual saw if you have to. Prepare a drill or drill press with an appropriate drill bit. From best to worst, I recommend 19/64", 5/16", 7.5mm, or 8mm. We need to limit the depth of the hole to about 5/8" (~15mm). If using a drill press, set the depth limiter. If using a hand drill, put some tape on the bit about that far up. Drill on every circled X, stopping at the appropriate depth. Blow it off, clean it up, and insert bits. You're done. NOTE: The script requires Python 3.x and the Pyx library.