How to get good results with direct captures

Sometimes it's easier to say what not to do. See our tips below.


Bad example of paper trace

Don't use low-res images


  • Smartphone cameras work great
  • Make sure to use the high res image
  • The file size should be over 1MB
  • Take the photos on your smart phone.
  • Upload it to website with a computer

Tools positioned too closely for toolbox shadowing application

Don't overpack your tools


  • If your tools are too close together, the image processing may fail
  • The foam will also prematurely fail if there isn't enough space
  • Keep at least 1/2" of spacing between tools
  • The width of a finger is a good rule of thumb. Pun intended.

Chrome sockets

Don't capture sockets or tall objects


  • Short or flat tools work best.
  • As tools are further away from the center or taller, parallax error becomes more apparent
  • In the image of sockets, you probably want the red outline as your cutout. The image processing will capture everything in the photo
  • We have something in the works to fix this. Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page to be notified when it happens
  • For very tall objects require good fits, we recommend either generating the CAD or doing a papertrace on it
  • To manage sockets, we recommend Hansen socket trays when possible.
  • Reach out to us if you have any questions about this

Foam cutout error

Check and double check your tool outlines


  • Any oversights in the tool verification phase will transfer to the foam itself
  • Look at the blue channellocks in the finished foam product
  • We intentially made an error during tool outline verification and it transferred over when laser cutting

Vector art of camera too close to drawer

Take photos at least 3 feet away from drawer


  • This improves the contour accuracy and reduces parallax error
  • If needed, remove the drawer, and place on floor
  • Make sure to hold the camera flat
  • Zoom-in camera into the drawer to get the correct framing