How to Make a Styrofoam Ice Cooler

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Things You'll Need

  • 2- by 1 1/2-foot block of Styrofoam.

  • Large hand-held saw

  • 4 wooden pegs, 4 inches long

  • Epoxy glue

  • 3-foot strap

  • Duct tape (optional)

Styrofoam coolers are a convenient way to keep food and drinks cold while enjoying a day at the lake, a picnics or hanging out on the beach. You can make your own portable cooler from a block of Styrofoam that will be lightweight and provide insulation..

Step 1

Cut the top of the Styrofoam block off about 3 inches down, using a hand-held saw. Cut in a straight line. This will be the top of your cooler.

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Step 2

Drill holes in the four corners of the top and bottom of the cooler with an electric screwdriver. Do not puncture any other sides of the Styrofoam. For the top of the cooler, the holes should be no deeper than an inch. For the bottom of the cooler, holes should be no deeper than 3 inches. Line up the holes on each piece of Styrofoam so that the pieces are attachable.

Step 3

Squeeze glue into the four holes on the bottom part of the cooler. Screw the wooden pegs into each of the four holes. The top can then be easily taken off or put on, giving you a secure lid.

Step 4

Cut out the inside of the bottom of the Styrofoam cooler with a sharp knife. Start by making an outline around the cooler about 2 inches from the edge of the Styrofoam. Use this outline to guide you when cutting out the extra Styrofoam. Do not puncture a hole in the side.

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Step 5

Cut small holes in the side of the cooler, about 4 inches from the top of the bottom piece of the cooler. Pull the strap through each hole and tie the ends in a knot on the inside to stop the strap from going through the hole. This shoulder strap will allow you to carry your cooler to any event.

Tip

Styrofoam can be breakable and fragile.

Reinforce the sholder strap holes with duct tape so the strap does not rip through the Styrofoam.

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