A holder for carrying cell phones and other small items is arranged to attach to a belt or other strap, or to a belt loop. The holder is of simple construction, including an elongated backing member and a cover that is attached to the bottom region of the backing member to form a pocket or holster that is open at the top. The backing member is divided near its upper end by a fold to form a first flap and a generally rectangular opening through the backing member, sized and shaped to accommodate a belt loop, is placed adjacent to and below the fold. A second flap is attached to the backing member at a location adjacent to and below the opening and is arranged to fold upwardly to cover the opening and to form a channel for a belt or other strap. The second flap is secured in that position by folding down the first flap and securing it to the second flap.