A unique case for showing off the iPhone.
I typically keep my phone in a case. I like to keep it in the best possible condition and find that the only way to really do that is to keep it secure and covered with a case. I usually find cases that have both form and function and most recently, I’ve started using cases that are somewhat minimal in nature. I was just introduced to TOAST, an accessory company that creates their products from natural materials like wood and leather.
Toast combines distinctive design, precise engineering and gorgeous natural materials to outfit tech gadgets in sleek, sustainable style. Enhance your device with the durability and grace of a real wood cover that ingeniously wraps its sinuous curves for a beautifully tactile experience. Memorable, elegant and utterly unique, Toast covers elevate every single interaction you have with your device.
It’s a unique company and when I heard about their products, I decided that I wanted to try them out. The first product I’ve been able to look at is their Handmade Wood Cover for the iPhone 7. The first thing that I really grabbed my attention was the ordering process. You can select a color finish for your wood, an etching option, front panel, and even custom text if you would like. I found this to be incredible considering that most case companies don’t give you this level of customization.
I chose the darker finish with an Apple logo cutout on the back. Not sure what to expect when it arrived, I eagerly awaited its delivery. When it arrived, I discovered it was in a flat package. The packaging actually seems a little generic and flimsy considering the case wrap that is inside of it. I’d love to see the packaging be a little more secure and safe — maybe something like what some screen protectors come in. Because each of these covers is made to order, I’m assuming that the packaging was done in this manner to save on overhead costs, but it’s really not much more than a piece of heavy cover stock paper.
Even though I was somewhat distracted by the packaging, the case cover is nothing short of amazing. The craftsmanship that was used to make this case is remarkable. TOAST describes the case as having origami styling, slim profile and luscious real wood veneer. The cover is laser cut and then finished by hand in Portland, Oregon.
I described this as a ‘wrap’ earlier and that’s because of the installation process. On the back of the cover is a carefully placed 3M Adhesive that adheres to the back and sides of your iPhone. I have to admit that I was a bit apprehensive about applying the cover to my phone because I don’t like to place permanent or even semi-permanent cases on my phone. I like the ability to swap it out however frequently that I want. Nevertheless, I decided to take the plunge.
Installing the TOAST case was a little like installing a screen protector. You have to make sure your phone is clean and you have to place it on the phone just right or it won’t stick right. TOAST makes it as easy as possible for users to install the piece, but when it comes down to it, if you are off just a little bit, the case is thrown off. I had a couple of good guides when I was lining up the case — the Apple logo and the camera.
I actually found that the cutout for the camera wasn’t exactly right. It didn’t fit down around the camera completely and as a result, there was a small air bubble around the camera lens. This didn’t seem to prohibit the rest of the case sticking to my phone, but I noticed when I got around to the bottom of the phone that I was off just a hair with my alignment. This also threw the buttons off. It was a domino effect caused by human error. Fortunately, it wasn’t enough of a problem that my phone wasn’t useable.
As far as cases go, the TOAST Wooden iPhone 7 Cover works pretty well. There are a couple of times that I noticed some dirt or pocket lint got trapped around the corners. Again, this sort of thing wasn’t a deal breaker for me, but I did find it a bit of a nuisance. The case looks absolutely amazing. It’s very unique and a real conversation started because — well, the back of your phone is covered in wood!
I want to make sure and note that this cover is not meant to be reused. If you choose to peel it off of your phone, there is a high likelihood that the cover will break and chip away as you pull it off your phone. It really depends on how long it’s been on your phone. I was able to remove the cover fairly easily by rolling the edges up that wrapped around to the front with my thumb and then I pulled it off of the back. I was really happy to see that there was 0% sticky residue left on the phone. This surprised me, but I was very happy about it. I was also lucky because my cover was still about 97% intact. Even though I can’t reinstall it, I can display it as a work of art because it really is classy looking.
I’m not sure that I would suggest this for everyday protection, but if you are looking for something that is completely unique and stylish, the TOAST Wooden iPhone 7 Cover is a step in the right direction.
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For more information, visit toastmade.com.
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