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Custom Board-Game Organizer
Design and build a custom insert that keeps all your game pieces, cards, and tokens perfectly organized. No more bags of chaos.
Jump to MaterialsDesign and build a custom insert that keeps all your game pieces, cards, and tokens perfectly organized. No more bags of chaos.
Measuring, design thinking, spatial reasoning, organization, problem-solving
Active supervision recommended
Materials List
Tools Needed
You probably own
- Ruler
- Pencil
Recommended buy
- Craft Knife (adult only)
- Hot Glue Gun (view)
Craft knife is adult-only — no exceptions. Kids can measure, design, glue, and line with felt. Always cut on a cutting mat, never toward your body.
What You’ll Build
A custom foamcore insert for any board game in your collection. Every token, card deck, and game piece gets its own compartment. Setup takes seconds instead of minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Inventory the Game
Lay out every component of the game. Group them by type: cards, tokens, dice, miniatures, boards. Count and measure each group.
Step 2: Measure the Box
Measure the inside dimensions of the game box — length, width, and depth. Your insert must fit inside with the lid closing flat.
Step 3: Design on Paper
Sketch a top-down layout. Assign each component group a compartment. Think about what you grab first during setup.
Step 4: Cut Foamcore Walls
An adult cuts foamcore strips to form the walls and dividers. Score one side for clean folds.
Step 5: Glue It Together
Hot-glue the walls into the base. Kids can do this step. Press firmly and hold for 10 seconds per joint.
Step 6: Line with Felt
Cut felt to fit the bottom of each compartment. This prevents pieces from sliding and makes the insert look professional.
Make It Easier
- Start with a simple game that only needs 3–4 compartments
- Use pre-cut foam trays as a starting point
Make It Harder
- Design a multi-level insert (a tray that lifts out revealing more storage)
- Add card dividers with labeled tabs
- Design inserts for games with many expansion packs
What Your Kid Learns
Measuring, design thinking, spatial reasoning, organization, problem-solving