Make a Duct Tape Case for Your iPod Nano
For those of you who want a cheap, durable, cool-looking case for your iPod Nano without spending money, use this guide.
Steps
- Go to http://sneakmove.com/docs/nano/diy_ipod_nano_case.pdf
- Go to File, click Print, click the drop-down menu labeled page scaling, and select None. Then hit Print. This will print the template full-size.
- Before cutting out the template, duct tape the entire back of the actual cut-out in whatever color duct tape you desire.
- Cut out the template, following the instructions on the paper. Use scissors.
- Once it is cut out, take an exacto-knife, and gently run over the fold lines. This will weaken the paper for much easier and straighter folds.
- Fold the template where indicated.
- Take your exacto-knife, and punch through the screen and click wheel areas.
- Stick scissors through the slit on each one, and carefully cut them out.
- Use an exacto-knife to cut out the headphone jack and USB port connection. Alternatively, at the end, stick the headphones into the headphone jack when there is no hole. This will show you where it is, and you can cut the excess off.
- Wrap the case around the Nano.
- Find where the Hold button is, and cut around it.
- Duct tape the case in place around the Nano, without duct taping the iPod itself.
- For extra screen protection, put a piece of clear packing tape on both sides of the screen cutout.
- Enjoy!
Alternative Method
- Measure the length of your nano. Cut two strips of duct tape that are about {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} longer than your iPod. Stick them together so that neither side of the strip is sticky. Then, place the rectangle of "fabric" underneath your iPod.
- If your iPod is wider than the duct tape, you may want to make a square with four strips rather than a rectangle with two.
- Take two more strips of the same length. Stick them together so that neither side is sticky. Lay it on top of the iPod.
- If your iPod is wider than the duct tape, you may want to make a square with four strips rather than a rectangle with two.
- Take a single strip of duct tape. This should be the same length as the ones in the first two steps. carefully place the piece of tape lengthwise on the strip from step two. Leave about half of the sticky side exposed.
- Keep your iPod sandwiched between the strips from steps one and two. Fold over the strip from step one so that it covers the side of your iPod. Then, wrap the strip from step 3 around and stick the remaining adhesive portion on the piece of tape from step one.
- Repeat the previous step for the opposite side. Slide the iPod out.
- Take a small piece of duct tape. Use it to close the top of the case.
- Measure the dimensions of the screen and scroll circle. Draw them on to the front of your case. Then, cut them out with an X- ACTO knife. You can also cut a small hole in the top for the hold button if you wish.
- Slide your iPod in. Leave the bottom open to allow yourself access to the headphone and USB jacks.
Tips
- Selling the ready-made cases is also a great way to earn money.
- You don't have to use duct tape; you can use things like gum wrappers, decorated paper, comic strips and other things if you stick them to the template with double sided tape.
Warnings
- The paper will scratch ipods over time.
- When using Duct tape, the sticky stuff will probably rub off a little on your fingers, so make sure you have some special stuff to get it off, because soap and water usually doesn't do the trick. Try Gojo hand cleaner. It's made for mechanics, so it works really well.
- Always be cautious when using sharp objects
Things You'll Need
- An iPod Nano
- Duct tape
- The template found at the above website
- Scissors
- An exacto-knife
- Clear packing tape
