Introduction: Custom Pocket Slim Gadget Stand

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First generation gadgets are exciting, but waiting for available accessories is very frustrating. In this instructable, I'll show you how I create custom fitted stands for my new gadgets. They are pockatable, adjustable, and best of all you can customize it to give it your personal touch! A great conversation starter, too!

In this instructable, I will show you how I made one for my phone - a Galaxy Note 4.

What you need:

  • Caliper
  • 3D printer
  • 3D modeling software - just about any would do. I personally use Autodesk Fusion 360, but I'll demonstrate Tinkercat in this tutorial because it's very easy to learn.

Step 1: Decide Where to Place It.

Before measuring, I decide where the stand should be. Most gadgets have buttons, ports and slots that I need to avoid. Also, many of them are not simple rectangles. This Galaxy Note 4, for example, actually has a "waist."

Step 2: Measure Precisely

I use a caliper to get better precision. Measuring precisely saves you a lot of headaches. In most cases, I have to iterate a few versions to get a perfect friction fit.

Things to pay attention when measuring:

  • Zeroing frequently
  • Most gadget casings are a bit flexible, so it'd buck a little when you measure it. Make sure the measurements are all about the same tightness.
  • To determine measurement precision, take your nozzle size into consideration. If your nozzle is standard 0.4mm, there's no reason to measure to 0.01mm

Step 3: Create 3D Model and Print!

Create a 3D model using the measurement. I usually just do a simple extrusion of the profile.

Tips:

  • Watch out for screen clearance. Not only the screen shouldn't be blocked, I also create a little bevel to give some room for my finger at the edge.
  • Thickness depends on the material strength. For PLA, I used about 4mm.
  • To reduce bulk, hallow it out but keep enough structural strength. Inner fillets and triangles are useful.

Usually I need to iterate a few times to ensure a great fiction fit. Not only does this help secure it, this also help create adjustable angles.

Step 4: Customize!

This is when you can add more personal touch to your cool little gadget stand. Add some text, logo, clip art, use your imaginations!

This is a great conversation piece. Try it!

Have fun!