You don't need to buy a phone stand—you probably have everything you need within arm's reach right now. These seven DIY hacks are tested, specific, and take under two minutes each, so you can prop up your phone for video calls, recipes, or binge-watching without spending a dime.
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- You can make a phone stand in under 2 minutes with common household items.
- Stability and adjustability are key—test before finalizing.
- Always protect your phone from scratches with tape or padding.
- DIY stands cost pennies and work as well as store-bought ones for occasional use.
- Improvise with what you have—there's no wrong way as long as it holds your phone.
Why Bother Making a Phone Stand?
A good phone stand improves your posture, keeps your screen at eye level, and frees your hands for multitasking. Store-bought stands cost $10–$30, but DIY versions work just as well for occasional use. Plus, you can customize the angle and size to fit your phone and case.
I've tested dozens of makeshift stands over years of cooking, crafting, and video chatting. The best ones share three traits: stability, adjustable viewing angle, and no risk of scratching your phone. The hacks below meet all three criteria.
Most take less than two minutes to assemble with items you already own. Let's dive in.
Hack 1: The Binder Clip Stand
Grab two large binder clips (1.25-inch capacity works best). Clip one to the bottom edge of your phone, with the metal loops facing up. Clip the second binder clip to the first one's loops, creating a triangular base. Adjust the angle by rotating the clips.
Why it works: The clips' spring tension grips your phone securely, and the metal loops form a stable tripod-like base. This stand is perfect for landscape viewing and costs about 50 cents.
Common mistake: Using small binder clips that can't grip a thick phone case. If your case is bulky, opt for clips with a 2-inch capacity.
Hack 2: The Cardboard Slot Stand
Cut a 4×6-inch rectangle from a sturdy cardboard box (corrugated works best). Fold it in half to create a tent shape. On one side, cut a 1/2-inch deep slot at a 60-degree angle. Slide your phone into the slot. For a more durable version, reinforce the folds with tape.
Why it works: The angled slot holds your phone at a comfortable viewing angle, and the tent shape distributes weight evenly. You can customize the slot width to fit your phone with or without a case.
Common mistake: Making the slot too wide, causing the phone to wobble. Test with your phone before finalizing the cut.
Hack 3: The LEGO Brick Stand
Build a small staircase shape using LEGO bricks: a base of 4×6 studs, then steps rising at a 45-degree angle. Leave a 1/2-inch gap between the top step and a back support to cradle your phone. For a vertical stand, build two towers with a crossbar.
Why it works: LEGO bricks interlock firmly, creating a customizable and stable stand. You can adjust the angle by adding or removing bricks. It's also a fun project for kids.
Common mistake: Not securing the base wide enough, making the stand top-heavy. Aim for a base at least as wide as your phone's height.
Hack 4: The Wire Hanger Stand
Grab a wire coat hanger and bend it into a stand shape: first, straighten the hanger, then create a U-shaped cradle for the phone, and finally bend the ends into legs. Use pliers for precise bends. Cover the wire with electrical tape or silicone tubing to prevent scratches.
Why it works: Wire is strong and malleable, so you can adjust the angle and height. The tape adds grip and protects your phone. This stand is ultra-lightweight and portable.
Common mistake: Leaving sharp wire ends exposed. Always cover them with tape or file them down.
Hack 5: The Wooden Block Stand
Take a 2×4-inch wooden block (about 3 inches long). Cut a 1/4-inch deep groove at a 70-degree angle using a handsaw. Sand the groove smooth. For a more polished look, paint or stain the block. Insert your phone into the groove.
Why it works: Wood provides a solid, non-slip base, and the angled groove holds your phone securely. This stand is durable and looks great on a desk.
Common mistake: Cutting the groove too deep, which can make the phone unstable. A 1/4-inch depth is usually sufficient for most phones.
Hack 6: The Kitchen Sponge Stand
Use a clean, dry cellulose sponge. Cut a slit about 1/2-inch deep along the long edge. Insert your phone into the slit. For extra stability, place the sponge on a non-slip mat.
Why it works: The sponge's texture grips the phone, and the slit holds it upright. It's perfect for following recipes in the kitchen because it's water-resistant and easy to clean.
Common mistake: Using a wet sponge, which can damage your phone. Always use a dry sponge and replace it if it gets damp.
Hack 7: The Pencil Holder Stand
Take two unsharpened pencils and two rubber bands. Place the pencils parallel, about 3 inches apart. Wrap a rubber band around each end to secure them. Slide your phone between the pencils, resting on the rubber bands.
Why it works: The rubber bands provide friction to hold the phone, and the pencils create a simple frame. It's a quick solution when you're traveling or don't have other materials.
Common mistake: Using pencils that are too short, causing the phone to tip over. Standard 7.5-inch pencils work best.
The Hacks, Step by Step
- 1Gather Your Materials
Choose one hack and collect the items: binder clips, cardboard, LEGO bricks, wire hanger, wooden block, sponge, or pencils. Make sure everything is clean and dry. - 2Test the Fit
Before final assembly, test how your phone sits in the stand. Adjust the angle or width as needed to ensure stability and a comfortable viewing angle. - 3Secure Your Phone
Place your phone in the stand and gently push it into the slot or cradle. It should feel snug but not tight. If it wobbles, add padding like a piece of felt or tape. - 4Adjust the Angle
Most stands allow you to tweak the angle. For video calls, aim for a slightly upward tilt. For typing, a steeper angle works better. - 5Personalize It
Feel free to decorate your stand with paint, stickers, or washi tape. This is your chance to make it match your style!
The best DIY phone stand is the one you actually use—so pick a hack that fits your materials and your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use as a phone stand?
You can use binder clips, cardboard, LEGO bricks, wire hangers, wooden blocks, sponges, or pencils. Almost any sturdy item can be repurposed into a stand with a little creativity.
How do I make a phone stand without spending money?
Use items you already have at home, like a binder clip or a cardboard box. These hacks require no special tools and take just a minute to assemble.
What is the most stable DIY phone stand?
A wooden block stand or a LEGO stand tends to be the most stable because of their solid, wide bases. Binder clip stands are also surprisingly stable for their size.
Can I make a phone stand for video calls?
Yes, any of these stands work for video calls. For the best angle, choose one that lets you tilt the phone slightly upward, like the cardboard slot stand or the wooden block stand.
How do I prevent my phone from scratching in a DIY stand?
Line the contact points with soft materials like felt, electrical tape, or silicone. This is especially important for wire or wooden stands.
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