Create Custom Phone Cases With Pictures
If there’s one object that never leaves your sight, it’s probably your phone. So, is there a better location for a picture that captures a cherished memory or your loved one(s)? Absolutely not!
Create a custom phone case featuring your favorite picture, and this device will instantly transform from a functional accessory to a meaningful keepsake. That’s not to mention the importance of adding a personalized touch in a world overflowing with mass-produced phone cases and other tech accessories.
So, let’s begin! Keep reading to learn two methods for creating custom phone cases with pictures.
How to DIY Custom Phone Cases With Pictures: Method 1
Simple. Easy. Fun. Those are the adjectives that best describe Method 1. You won’t need specialized equipment or DIY skills for this technique; just a little time and lots of creativity.
Step 1 – Choose Your Picture
Honestly, this is probably the most challenging step of this tutorial. After all, how can you possibly choose just one picture from your treasure trove of memories? Though this choice will surely be tough, here’s some good news. This method allows you to swap images occasionally, so you can rest assured each memory will get its time to shine.
Step 2 – Print Your Picture(s)
After selecting the perfect picture—or pictures, more likely—it’s time to print them. Now, of course, you can do this using a standard printer. But truthfully, your picture’s quality will be the best if you visit a professional photo-printing service.
Alternatively, you can use a Polaroid photo (if you own this camera) or one of those mini photo printers that are all the rage now.
Whatever you choose, ensure your picture fits your phone case.
Step 3 – Gather the Supplies
With your picture(s) in hand, it’s time to gather all the other supplies you’ll need to pull off this project. The only “must-have” items are a clear phone case, plastic business card sleeves, and clear-drying glue. Everything else is “nice to have.”
You’ll use the remaining items to decorate your phone case so that the picture isn’t the only element. This means that you have the freedom to choose whatever supplies you’d like. Use glitter, sequins, stickers, paint, and whatever else sparks your creativity.
Step 4 – Attach the Plastic Sleeve
Use the clear-drying glue to attach a plastic business card sleeve to the outside of your phone case. Once you do, slip your picture inside.
Now, you might ask – why not just glue the picture directly to the phone case? Well, you can absolutely do that. After all, it’s your phone case! But going this route means that you won’t be able to change the picture. Also, your photo will likely get damaged quicker, as there’s nothing to protect it.
Step 5 – Decorate the Inside of Your Case
This is the part of the tutorial where you can make the phone case genuinely your own. Use the gathered embellishments to adorn the inside of your case while being careful of two things. One, camouflage the corners of the plastic sleeve to make them less prominent. And two, try not to overwhelm the picture with too many decorations. If possible, coordinate the surrounding elements with it (especially color-wise) to make the image truly pop.
How to DIY Custom Phone Cases With Pictures: Method 2
This method might be slightly more challenging, but it lets you cover your phone case with pictures. Follow the step-by-step guide below to learn how.
Step 1 – Create Your Design
Since this method applies pictures directly to your phone case, you can get more creative with the design. Instead of using a single shot, create a collage of your favorite moments while being mindful of your phone case’s dimensions.
Step 2 – Gather Your Supplies
With Method 2, you must gather your supplies before printing your picture. Why? Because the printing must be done on heat transfer paper. But don’t worry; this paper is also widely available. You can find it at virtually any craft store.
Besides the paper, you’ll need the following supplies and tools:
- A printer
- An iron
- Tape
- A pair of scissors
- A clear jelly phone case
Step 3 – Print and Cut Your Picture
Load your printer with heat transfer paper and print your picture (or design). Cut out any excess and make sure the image fits your phone case perfectly.
Step 4 – Iron-Press Your Picture
So far, it has all been fun and games. But this is the part where you’ll need to be extremely careful. Here’s what to do:
- Align your picture against the back of the phone case.
- Tape its sides slightly, ensuring the tape doesn’t get in the way of the iron.
- Iron-press your photo directly onto the phone case.
- Let the phone case cool off for roughly five minutes.
- Submerge the case into a bowl half-filled with lukewarm water for about 20 minutes.
Step 5 – Remove the Transfer Paper
After your phone has sat in the water for a while, it’s time to remove the transfer paper and reveal your masterpiece.
First, gently rub the heat transfer paper onto the case. Then, add some water to help you rub off the excess paper.
Personalization Galore
Once you discover the wonders of personalized phone cases, you’ll probably want to make every item you own your personal canvas for self-expression. But the good news is that you don’t have to do it all yourself. Work with Imprint Now and create stunning (and personalized!) T-shirts, mugs, or tote bags.
