Crazy Raspberry Pi Case Ideas - DIY & Homemade

Finding the Right Enclosure for Your Raspberry Pi

Having utilized a Raspberry Pi for a period of time, I dedicated effort to locating an appropriate case for this adaptable, compact computer.

Initially, I opted for the widely circulated “punnet” design, readily available for download, printing, and assembly by fellow RaspPi enthusiasts. However, this proved to be less than optimal.

Limitations of the Punnet Case

Despite its functionality, the punnet case didn’t fully meet my requirements. Consequently, I conducted online research to discover alternative solutions implemented by other owners.

The sheer volume of available options was unexpected; Raspberry Pi owners demonstrate considerable ingenuity!

A Thriving Community of Makers

The approaches to housing these devices are remarkably diverse. Owners are constructing enclosures from a wide range of materials.

From utilizing discarded cardboard packaging to creatively repurposing obsolete hardware, building homes for these 3 x 2 inch computers has become a popular activity, rivaling the actual use of the devices themselves!

This trend highlights the vibrant and resourceful nature of the Raspberry Pi community.

A Repurposed Cigarette Packet

Acquiring a cigarette packet for this project may prove costly if you aren't already a smoker, as the packets themselves can be valuable. However, an empty packet can be cleverly utilized as an enclosure for your Raspberry Pi.

Modifications, including precise cuts and slots, are necessary to provide access to essential ports. These include the USB ports, Ethernet connector, HDMI output, micro-USB power input, and the SD card slot.

Necessary Adaptations

Similar access modifications are required for nearly all enclosure solutions discussed. Careful planning is key to ensuring functionality.

This particular method has garnered significant interest within the Raspberry Pi community. Notably, the original creation was even offered for sale on eBay.

eBay can also serve as a valuable resource for finding pre-made Raspberry Pi cases if a commercially manufactured option is preferred.

Utilizing a Matchbox as an Enclosure

Following the idea of repurposing everyday packaging, a sizable matchbox – frequently referred to as "cook's matches" – presents itself as a viable housing option for the Raspberry Pi.

The internal measurements prove to be adequately roomy, and the existing cardboard divider can be effectively employed to firmly hold the motherboard in position. Similar to the cigarette packet approach, a matchbox offers portability and requires minimal tools – simply scissors or a knife – to create the necessary openings and slots for operation.

Due to its more robust build, the matchbox arguably provides a more durable enclosure compared to a cigarette packet. It also represents a cost-effective alternative, though perhaps lacking the same aesthetic appeal.

Raspberry Pi enthusiasts seeking a lightweight and inexpensive project case should consider this readily available option.

Advantages of a Matchbox Enclosure

• Portability: The lightweight nature of a matchbox makes it easy to transport your Raspberry Pi project.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Matchboxes are significantly cheaper than dedicated enclosures.
• Ease of Modification: Creating necessary cutouts is straightforward with basic tools.
• Structural Integrity: The cardboard construction offers reasonable protection.

The simplicity of this solution makes it an attractive choice for quick prototyping or temporary installations. It’s a resourceful way to give your Raspberry Pi a protective shell.

Papier Mache: A Crafting Solution for Raspberry Pi Cases

Papier mache, a technique involving the application of a mixture of glue, water, and paper to form sculpted objects, gained significant popularity during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its affordability and ease of use make it an excellent option for those seeking to personalize their Raspberry Pi enclosures.

This method allows for the creation of unique and customized cases, offering a creative outlet for hobbyists and makers.

Whether you intend to decorate an existing case or construct one entirely from scratch, papier mache provides a versatile approach.

Design Considerations

A wide range of designs are achievable with papier mache, including forms that mimic books or treasure chests. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

However, when crafting a case, it’s crucial to ensure unobstructed access to all necessary ports.

Adequate ventilation is also paramount to prevent overheating, and the finished case must be thoroughly dried to maintain its structural integrity.

Further Information

Comprehensive instructions and alternative design ideas for utilizing papier mache in Raspberry Pi projects can be located at PenguinTutor.com.

Repurposing Old Hardware

Given the frequent turnover of computers and electronic devices, it's unsurprising that numerous methods exist for utilizing discarded equipment as enclosures for your Raspberry Pi.

A wide range of obsolete items, from keyboards to game consoles – and even individual game cartridges – can provide a suitable housing for the versatile Pi.

The included image, showcasing a former ADSL modem/router, exemplifies this concept. With minimal modification, using a rotary tool like a Dremel (or alternatively, a drill and file), the case can be adapted to accommodate the RaspPi in a matter of minutes.

Creative Enclosure Options

The adaptability of the Raspberry Pi allows for a truly personalized approach to housing. Consider the possibilities offered by vintage technology.

• Old computer cases offer ample space and existing ventilation.
• Defunct handheld game consoles can provide a compact and portable solution.
• Even seemingly unusable components like floppy disk drives can be creatively repurposed.

The key is to identify items with sufficient internal volume and the potential for modification to fit the Raspberry Pi’s dimensions and ports.

Such projects not only provide a functional enclosure but also offer a sustainable way to give new life to otherwise discarded technology.

Repurposing a VHS-C Cassette Box for Raspberry Pi Housing

Individuals who possess older video recording equipment may find themselves with unused cassette containers. The VHS-C cassette case is notably well-suited for this purpose.

The dimensional similarity between a VHS-C case and a Raspberry Pi is remarkably close, leading to speculation about intentional design compatibility for storage.

Simple Conversion Process

Transforming an empty cassette case into a protective enclosure for your Raspberry Pi is achievable with minimal effort.

While the process necessitates the use of a powered tool, careful planning and preparation will allow for completion within a few minutes.

A small amount of modification will be needed to accommodate the Raspberry Pi’s ports and components.

• Ensure accurate measurements before cutting.
• Consider ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Secure the Raspberry Pi within the case to prevent movement.

This method provides a cost-effective and creative solution for housing your Raspberry Pi, giving new life to otherwise discarded materials.

Designing a Raspberry Pi Enclosure

Although the following recommendations are readily implementable, exploring the creation of a custom Raspberry Pi case is certainly worthwhile. Numerous approaches exist for this endeavor, and a particular appeal lies in the creative reuse of existing hardware and components to house the compact computer.

The primary considerations during case construction involve ensuring adequate cooling for the motherboard and protecting it from moisture. Beyond these necessities – and maintaining electrical safety by preventing contact between metallic objects and the board’s connectors – a wide range of materials can be utilized.

Lego is a frequently chosen option, alongside other modular brick-based construction systems. However, the possibilities extend far beyond these.

• A discarded computer mouse can be repurposed.
• A book offers a surprisingly adaptable structure.
• An obsolete digital camera provides a unique housing.

The constraints are limited only by your ingenuity! A prior examination of Raspberry Pi cases details the device’s precise measurements and crucial factors to consider when designing a custom enclosure.

Should you be willing to invest financially in crafting a superior homemade Raspberry Pi case, remember to explore your local hardware retailer for components that can aid in building a distinctive and professionally finished case.

Creative Enclosures for Raspberry Pi

Owners of the Raspberry Pi frequently seek inventive ways to house their compact and affordable devices. This often leads to utilizing unconventional containers for their projects.

Popular choices include repurposing everyday items like discarded cigarette packets or matchboxes. Alternatively, enthusiasts may dismantle old computer keyboards or procure materials from hardware stores to construct entirely custom enclosures.

Considerations for Raspberry Pi Cases

The primary requirements for a suitable Raspberry Pi case are adequate ventilation and non-conductive properties.

Ensuring proper airflow prevents overheating, while a non-conductive material safeguards against short circuits.

These criteria allow Raspberry Pi owners to showcase their miniature PCs within a diverse range of unique and imaginative housings.

The possibilities are truly limitless, encouraging creativity and personalization in the presentation of these versatile mini-computers.

Image credit: J. Helgason / Shutterstock.com