I recently designed a phone stand that’s straightforward to make on a CNC machine and comes together with a bit of wood glue. When I started, I had a clear vision: a sleek, minimalist design that would fit seamlessly into any workspace. Here’s a look at the design choices I made, the reasoning behind them, and where I see this project going next.
Key Design Considerations
Stability: Keeping Your Phone Secure
One of the main priorities was stability. To avoid any chance of the phone tipping over, I ensured that the base has enough depth and width to support even larger phones. A phone stand should be reliable, not just good-looking!
Simple, Sturdy Assembly
I wanted this project to be accessible to all woodworkers, so I kept the assembly as simple as possible. It’s all glued together, making it an ideal beginner project with an elegant result.
“Designing something simple is harder than it looks. Every piece has to pull its weight.”
Choosing the Right Material
While the stand can be made from almost any type of wood, my favorite material for this is plywood. Plywood offers a distinctive striped effect, giving a modern look while providing great strength. You could use hardwood for a more classic look or experiment with different finishes for a customized vibe.
Reinforced Corners: Adding Fillets
Adding fillets was a key design choice, especially at corners where the wood grain might otherwise weaken the piece. Fillets help prevent cracks and add durability, so the stand can hold up over time. They also give the edges a smoother, more refined appearance.
Symmetry and Aesthetics
I took extra care with the stand’s symmetry and overall aesthetic. It should look just as pleasing when holding your phone as it does when it’s empty on your desk. Balancing form and function was essential here.
Room for a Charging Cable
A big part of the design was allowing for a charging cable to be used without hassle. The stand has an open slot that lets the cable connect without bending at a sharp angle, which can damage the wire over time. Practicality is just as important as looks!
“Good design is functional and user-friendly—especially when it comes to accessories we use every day.”
Thin Cross-Section for a Light Look
While the stand needs to be strong enough to support a phone, I wanted it to look as light and minimal as possible. The thin cross-section achieves this without compromising strength.
Perfect for Small-Scale Production
One of the biggest advantages of this design is its simplicity, making it ideal for anyone looking to produce multiple stands for sale. The straightforward assembly process means you can create a batch without the need for complex joinery or time-consuming setups.
The clean, minimalist aesthetic also has wide appeal, making it versatile enough to fit a range of personal styles and office spaces. Whether you’re selling at craft fairs, online, or through local shops, this design’s streamlined production and broad market appeal make it a solid choice for small-scale makers.
What’s Next? Ideas for Version 2
I’m already brainstorming ways to improve this design. In the next version, I’d like to add an adjustable angle feature. Adding a brass bolt could allow the angle to be customized, giving users more flexibility based on their preferences and workspace setup.
Tips for Making Your Own Phone Stand
- Test the Stability First: Before gluing, assemble the pieces loosely and test the phone’s balance on the stand.
- Choose Your Wood Carefully: Plywood is a fantastic option, but if you’re using other woods, consider the grain and finish.
- Add a Personal Touch: Try engraving or inlaying a design on the front of the stand to make it uniquely yours.
“A great project doesn’t just look good—it’s personalized and practical.”
Download the free design here and give it a try: Download Phone Stand Design. Let me know what you think and how you’d customize it!
