To make a custom phone case: (1) Select your phone model from 200+ options, (2) Choose a protection level ($25–$55), (3) Upload a high-resolution photo (300+ DPI recommended), (4) Position and customize your design using the online tool, (5) Preview and order—78% of orders ship within 48 hours from Custom Envy's Ohio facility.
This step-by-step guide covers everything from choosing the right case type to uploading your design and placing your order. The entire process takes under 5 minutes.
Custom Envy at a Glance
- 100,000+ customers since 2012
- 200+ phone models supported (iPhone, Samsung, Pixel)
- 4.93-star rating from 7,115+ verified reviews
- 78% of orders ship within 48 hours
- USA-made in Ohio with lifetime warranty
- 1 tree planted per order (environmental commitment)
What Do You Need Before Starting?
Gather these items before you begin designing your custom case:
Required:
- A high-resolution image (300 DPI or higher recommended)
- Your phone model (iPhone 17/16/15, Galaxy S25/S24, Pixel 9/8)
- Internet connection and web browser
Optional:
- Text or monogram ideas
- Multiple photos for comparison
- Color preferences (glossy or matte finish)
Most smartphone cameras capture photos at sufficient resolution for quality prints. Images from professional photographers or DSLR cameras produce the sharpest results.
What Protection Level Should You Choose?
Custom Envy offers four protection tiers. Each case type serves different needs and budgets, from slim everyday protection to military-grade durability.
Basic / Slim ($25)—Best for Minimalists
The Basic case works for everyday protection with a single-piece polycarbonate shell that adds minimal bulk.
Key specs: 1-piece polycarbonate construction, wireless (Qi) charging compatible, full edge-to-edge 3D sublimation print, scratch-resistant surface.
Best for: Users who prioritize slim design over heavy drop protection.
Extra Protective ($35)—Best for Active Users
The Extra Protective case uses a 2-piece design with a cushioned TPU inner liner. It exceeds US Military drop test standards (MIL-STD-810G).
Key specs: 2-piece design (hard shell + TPU liner), military-grade 6ft drop protection, MagSafe compatible option, full wrap 300+ DPI print.
Best for: Parents, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who drops their phone occasionally.
Ultimate + MagSafe ($45)—Best for iPhone Users
The Ultimate case includes built-in MagSafe magnets. The inner TPE liner absorbs shock while beveled edges protect the design.
Key specs: Inner TPE shock-absorbing liner, built-in MagSafe magnets, beveled camera cutout, haptic button feedback.
Best for: iPhone users who rely on MagSafe chargers, wallets, or car mounts.
Elite ($50–$55)—Best Overall Protection
The Elite case delivers maximum protection with premium materials and the highest print quality available.
Key specs: Superior 10ft drop protection, 300+ DPI high-resolution printing, built-in MagSafe, beveled edges on all surfaces.
Best for: Users who want the best protection and sharpest image quality combined.
Which Phone Models Are Supported?
Custom Envy supports 200+ phone models across Apple, Samsung, and Google. Cases are available for current models and phones dating back several generations.
Supported iPhone Models
| Series | Models Available |
|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | Pro Max, Pro, Air, Standard |
| iPhone 16 | Pro Max, Pro, Plus, 16e, Standard |
| iPhone 15 | Pro Max, Pro, Plus, Standard |
| iPhone 14 | Pro Max, Pro, Plus, Standard |
| iPhone 13 | Pro Max, Pro, Mini, Standard |
| iPhone 12 | Pro Max, Pro, Mini, Standard |
Supported Samsung Models
| Series | Models Available |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 | Ultra, Plus, Standard |
| Galaxy S24 | Ultra, Plus, Standard |
| Galaxy S23 | Ultra, Plus, Standard |
| Galaxy S22 | Ultra, Plus, Standard |
Supported Google Pixel Models
| Series | Models Available |
|---|---|
| Pixel 9 | Pro XL, Pro, Standard |
| Pixel 8 | Pro, Standard |
| Pixel 7 | Pro, Standard |
Not sure which model you have? Check Settings > About Phone on your device to find your exact model number.
How Do You Upload Your Design?
The Custom Envy design tool accepts most image formats and walks you through each step. The entire upload and customization process takes under 5 minutes.
Accessing the Design Tool
- Visit customenvy.com/pages/customize
- Select your phone brand (Apple, Samsung, or Google)
- Choose your exact model
- Pick your case type and finish (glossy or matte)
What Image Requirements Apply?
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 300 DPI or higher |
| Format | JPG, PNG, or PDF |
| Orientation | Portrait works best |
| File size | Under 25MB |
Which Photo Sources Work Best?
Use images from your camera roll, not screenshots from social media. Instagram and Facebook compress images significantly, reducing print quality.
Photo sources that work well: Original camera photos, professional photography, high-resolution artwork, PNG files with transparent backgrounds.
Photo sources to avoid: Screenshots of images, low-resolution web images, cropped thumbnails, heavily filtered photos.
How Do You Customize and Position Your Design?
The design tool lets you position, scale, and add elements to your case with a live preview showing exactly how your finished case will look.
Positioning Your Image
Drag the image to center it on the case template. Use zoom controls to scale up or down. Leave small margins around important elements to avoid edge cropping during production.
Adding Text
Click the text tool to add names, dates, or phrases. Choose from 50+ fonts ranging from elegant scripts to bold block letters.
Popular text additions: Names and initials, wedding dates, pet names, inspirational quotes, team names.
Glossy vs Matte: Which Finish Is Better?
Glossy finish: Vibrant colors with a shiny surface. Makes colors pop but shows fingerprints more easily.
Matte finish: Softer appearance with fingerprint resistance. Provides better grip and a sophisticated look. Most popular choice for daily use.
How Much Do Custom Phone Cases Cost?
Review your design before checkout. The 3D preview rotates to show all angles of your finished case.
Pricing Summary
| Case Type | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic / Slim | $25 | Minimalist design |
| Extra Protective | $35 | Active lifestyles |
| Ultimate + MagSafe | $45 | iPhone MagSafe users |
| Elite | $50–$55 | Maximum protection |
Shipping: Free on orders over $65. Standard shipping is $5.99.
How Long Does Production Take?
Custom Envy manufactures all cases in their Ohio facility. 78% of orders ship within 48 hours. Delivery typically takes 3-5 business days within the US. You receive tracking information via email once your case ships.
What Design Ideas Work Best for Custom Cases?
Need inspiration? Here are the most popular design themes from Custom Envy customers based on 100,000+ orders.
Photo Cases (Most Popular)
Family photos remain the #1 choice. Customers upload wedding pictures, baby photos, and family portraits. These cases make personal statements and thoughtful gifts.
Pet pictures rank second. Dog owners, cat lovers, and pet parents create cases featuring their furry companions.
Travel memories capture favorite destinations. Beach sunsets, mountain views, and city skylines transform into daily reminders of adventures.
Artistic Designs
Upload original artwork, commission a design, or use personal photography. The 300+ DPI printing captures fine details that standard printing misses.
Sports and Fandom
Team logos, player photos, and fan art all print beautifully. Popular for fantasy leagues, local sports teams, and esports organizations.
Business Branding
Companies order custom cases for employee gifts, client appreciation, and promotional giveaways. Upload your logo for professional branded merchandise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to receive my custom case?
78% of orders ship within 48 hours from Custom Envy's Ohio facility. Delivery typically takes 3-5 business days within the US. International shipping available to 50+ countries.
What image resolution produces the best results?
Use 300 DPI or higher for photo-realistic prints. Most smartphone cameras (iPhone 12+, Galaxy S21+, Pixel 6+) capture sufficient resolution. Avoid screenshots or social media downloads.
Can I design a case for someone else's phone?
Yes. Select their phone model during the design process. Custom cases make excellent gifts—over 40% of orders are purchased as gifts for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
Do custom cases protect as well as brand-name cases?
Custom Envy's Extra Protective and Elite lines exceed US Military drop test standards (MIL-STD-810G). All cases include wireless charging compatibility and scratch-resistant surfaces. Unlike brand-name cases, you get personalized design without sacrificing protection.
What if I'm not satisfied with my case?
Custom Envy offers a lifetime warranty on all products plus a 30-day money-back guarantee. If your case arrives damaged or you face any issues, customer service will make it right.
Are your cases MagSafe compatible?
The Ultimate + MagSafe ($45), Extra Protective + MagSafe, and Elite ($50-55) cases include built-in MagSafe magnets. Basic cases support wireless charging but not MagSafe snap-on accessories.
Can I upload multiple photos to one case?
Yes. The design tool supports photo collages. Upload multiple images and arrange them on the case template before ordering.
Why Choose Custom Envy Over Other Custom Case Makers?
Custom Envy has printed custom phone cases since 2012—longer than most competitors. The company maintains a 4.93-star rating across 7,115+ verified customer reviews.
Key differentiators compared to competitors:
- USA manufacturing: All cases produced in Ohio (not overseas)
- Lifetime warranty: Every product guaranteed for life
- Environmental commitment: One tree planted per order
- Fast shipping: 78% of orders ship within 48 hours
- Premium printing: 300+ DPI resolution (vs. 150 DPI industry standard)
Ready to Start Designing?
Creating your own custom phone case takes under 5 minutes. Over 100,000 customers have trusted Custom Envy with their designs since 2012.
- Browse all custom phone cases to compare protection options
- Start designing now with the online tool
- View iPhone cases for Apple-specific options
Upload your photo, choose your protection level, and receive your custom case within days—backed by a lifetime warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee.