Custom Pocket Slim Gadget Stand

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.

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."

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

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.

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!