Lanyard Patches and Tethers

How a strap fits a phone with no hole

Most phones and most cases have no hole for a strap. A lanyard patch is how a strap or charm fits them anyway. A patch, also called a tether, tab or strap holder, is a thin flat piece of plastic, rubber or fabric with a loop or ring at one end. It sits flat between the back of the phone and the inside of the case, and the loop comes out through the opening at the bottom where the charging cable goes in. The strap or charm then clips or ties onto the loop.

What is in this range

Today the range holds crossbody lanyards sold with their own fitting, so the strap and the piece that holds it come together: one comes with a patch, another with a clip that turns all the way round and fits most cases. Several other straps in the shop come with a patch or connector piece too, in wrist straps and neck lanyards.

Fitting a patch

1. Take the case off the phone.
2. Lay the patch flat on the back of the phone, with the loop at the bottom, in line with the charging port.
3. Put the case back on, starting at the top and pressing it on round the edges, so the patch does not slide.
4. Check that the loop comes out cleanly through the opening, and that the patch lies flat inside.

Will a patch work with my case?

• The opening. The case needs an opening at the charging port. Most have one. A sealed case, such as a waterproof case or a pouch, does not.
• A tight case gets a little tighter, and may need a firmer push to go on.
• Wireless and magnetic charging. A patch sits at the bottom edge, away from the middle of the back. If wireless charging slows or stops, or a magnetic wallet or mount holds less well, take the patch out and try again.
• Wear. The patch carries the phone every time it swings. Check now and then for a tear or a stretched hole, and fit a new one with each new case.

Questions people ask about lanyard patches

Will a patch block my charging cable?

It should not, but check after fitting that the cable still goes in fully.

Is a case with lanyard holes better?

It has nothing between the phone and the case and leaves the port clear. See cases with lanyard holes and lanyard and crossbody cases.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when it usually arrives.

More to look at

• Cases with lanyard holes
• Lanyard and crossbody cases
• Adjustable crossbody lanyards
• Wrist straps
• Dust plug charms
• Charm rings and connectors
• Guide: Phone charms and straps: the complete guide
• Guide: How to make your own phone charm