Device and process for picking up a formable and/or collapsible part (30) that employs the forces of a vacuum (44) and generally distributes the vacuum force uniformly over a large portion of the surface of the part (30). The device preferably provides support for the part (30) at regular intervals, for example using a distributor plate (14) having many small openings (26). The device preferably employs a porous layer (12) such as an open cell foam between the distributor plate (14) and the part (30). The porous layer (12) may perform for one or any combination of the following: further distribute the vacuum forces, cushion the part (30) against the distributor plate (14), or further distribute the support for the part (30).