Whether you have a screen protector because your device scratches easily or you just hate seeing your greasy fingerprints, the cost always seems a little hard to justify for a piece of film. Instead, make one yourself for next-to-nothing.


Instructables user jen7714 shows us how. But first, here's what you'll need:

Vinyl covering (the thinnest kind possible)

Scissors or a craft knife

Ruler

Cardboard

Pen

Cloth


The steps are pretty simple. You measure and cut the vinyl covering to the size of your screen, cut any shapes out of the screen that are necessary for buttons, camera lenses, etc., and then apply to your device while using your ruler to push out any air bubbles. While there are some premium-grade screen protectors that guarantee bubble-free application and/or add a nice matte finish (when you're stuck with a glossy screen you don't want), this is a great way to get basic screen protection on the cheap. If you want to go even cheaper (and your device is small enough), you can always make one out of packing tape instead.

For more detailed steps (with pictures), check out the full how-to on Instructables.

How to Make Your Own Screen Protector (for less than a nickel!) [Instructables]