Use an Old Necktie to Make an MP3 or Cell Phone Case

Use an Old Necktie to Make an MP3 or Cell Phone Case

Learn how to repurpose an old necktie into a custom, stylish case for your cell phone or MP3 player with this simple step-by-step guide.

Looking for a case for that new cell phone or MP3 player you just received? Don’t want to bother purchasing one at a local electronics store? Perhaps you spent all your money on the device itself? Whatever the case may be, there is a solution within arm’s reach—just look inside your closet. Follow the steps below to learn how to create a case for your MP3 player or cell phone using a necktie.

• Measuring your device: The first step is to measure the length of your electronic device. If your device happens to be rounded at the ends, make sure you measure to the end of the rounded part. Next, measure the width of the device. Your cell phone or MP3 player needs to be narrower than the tie itself. Generally, skinny ties won’t work for the majority of electronic devices. Double-check your measurements, as any errors may end up ruining a tie.
• Preparing the tie: Once you have the measurement for the device's length, get your tie ready. You will be working with the back side of the tie—the side where the hemline runs down the middle. From the base of the triangle formed at the wide end of the tie, measure double the length of the device. Before making your cut, add a quarter of an inch to allow ample room for the hem. If your electronic device measures six inches, make sure the length from the straight part of the tie to where you cut is 12 and a quarter inches.
• Cleaning the cut: After cutting, your next step will be fixing the end of the tie where the cut was made. Depending on the tie, the cloth used to pad the inside may be hanging out. Simply push some of the exposed cloth back into the tie itself or cut away the excess. Hem the end with thread that closely matches the color of the tie. If you’re having difficulty sewing the tie, try ironing the end first.
• Sewing the sides: Once the end of the tie has been hemmed, fold the tie so the base of the triangle at the wide end lines up with the sewn end. Once the ends are aligned and the sides are in place, use pins to secure them. Sew small stitches along each side of the tie, being careful not to stitch too far inward. Sewing too deeply may make it difficult to insert and remove your device, or prevent it from fitting altogether. Once the sides have been sewn properly, remove the pins and turn the tie inside out so the hemming is no longer visible.
• Creating the flap: The triangular part of the tie will serve as the flap for your case. To prepare the flap, fold it down and iron it until a prominent crease forms. If you’d like, consider adding a piece of Velcro for extra security.