Computer Upholstery: Part One

Posted 08/31/2007 at 6:05pm | by Chris Adcock

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Cutting the hole is pretty easy. You just use a hole saw. Figuring out where to cut the hole is a bit different. I typically cheat by using the case as a pattern as much as possible. I place the backing panel (or what have you) where it will eventually be mounted , and use a permanent marker to trace out the hole. This will greatly reduce measuring mistakes. In the above picture you can see the hole in the top of the case. In the inset you can see the white bead board pattern. A bead board mod? - Stay on task!

Once you have your hole marked, just drill it out with a hole saw - after you locate the center mark. This migh be the most difficult part - be patient and measure carefully. Note - you do not need experience to make sure something important is not under the hole saw when cutting - like parts of you. I know this because I’ve had occasion to write it 100 times.

I like to drill the pilot hole first as it will center/guide the hole saw when I go to make the cut. It's very difficult to see what you are centered one under the catual hole saw. Always drill or saw on a stable surface with plenty of open space below. And, make sure what you are working on is secure! Some tips on hole saw use can be found in this entry on installing a blow hole .

Next, I need to drill the holes for the fan mounting. I used the same technique as with the fan hole. I intentionally waited to mark and drill them until after I made the hole cut. This way, I can fit the hole I cut, to the hole in the case and then mark the mounting holes. This allows me a bit of wiggle room if I made a minor error and I can still recover the piece.

And there you have it. One backing panel ready to use. Of course the exciting part will be next week when I cover it with black padded corduroy and mount it with brass hardware to my case.

‘till then, happy moddin’

Our bling for the week comes from CoolercasesUK.

Enjoy!

Edited for minor typos.