Abstract: A method for making recessed tray liners for storing objects in a storage container is disclosed. The first step in the method is to size a structural thermoplastic foam liner to fit within a tray. The foam liner is preferably a foamed polyethylene plastic. After the tray is lined with the foam liner, the object or objects to be held in the tray are then heated to a temperature sufficient to soften the thermoplastic foam. The temperature of the heated object is selected to be above the softening temperature of the thermoplastic foam, but below the melting temperature of the foam. After the object or objects have reached the appropriate temperature, the heated object is pressed into the foam lining to form a cavity. The heated foam will flow such that the cavity will conform to the contours of the object being pressed into the foam. After the object is sufficiently pressed into the foam, it is rapidly cooled to a temperature below the softening temperature of the foam.