Did it myself EeePC/E-book Case
I really like the cases offered at Fabrix Cases, but I just can’t see paying $40 for about $4 in materials and limited design choices. Earlier this year, I had mentioned that I would try to make my own case. I looked at lots of different patterns from McCalls, Simplicity, and Kwik Sew; however each one would have to be modified for size. Also I wanted a bag based on Fabrix’s design. At that point I decided to just make my own pattern. The red case pictured here represents my first attempt. For the outside I used a 17″ x 17″ napkin I bought at Target. It was in a pack of two for $2. For the lining I used 1/2 yd of novelty fabric from Walmart. The fabric was $2 a yd. I didn’t draw out a pattern, but guestimated the needed size using a ruler and the Eee Pc’s dimensions. I like the fit, but it just seems a bit bulky since I used ½ inch foam padding. I originally wanted ¼ inch in thickness, but I don’t know if that would have given me the amount of protection I want. I placed the Velcro a bit too high and later I just added another strip. My second bag pictured below was made based on my first attempt and I added an extra inch in width. Another change I made was to round the corners on both the flap and the sleeve. This time I did make a paper pattern. This bag lies flatter, but the fit is a bit loose (but not too much). I do think that it is a great size for my various e-book devices although I’ll never know (my daughter has taken possession). So now I am creating a third pattern, this time I am subtracting some of the ease previously added. Hopefully, the third time is the charm. It’s been a lot of fun and the best part is that I know no one will have the same case. The case is quick and easy to make and I doubt if it cost me more than $5. If anyone is interested, I will post directions, pattern, and materials.
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hi. your case looks great! id love to make one for myself. would you mind posting patterns and instructions?
Mini,
Of course. I need to write it all and put in some photos. It will take me a few days, but I will do it. I have been working on tweaking the process to get a better more professional look and easier to put together.
Ellen
Ellen,
At your earliest convenience, of course. Looking foward to your post!
I’d love to look at your pattern. I have a 13′laptop, but I could modify yours. I ordered a case from Fabrixcases but never heard from them and never got it! Do you remember if they ever emailed you about your order?
Sally,
I never ordered a case from them. I thought that it cost too much and that inspired me to create my own EEE case. Of course you could modify my instructions, but you may want to take a look at some of the patterns made by McCall, Simplicity, and Vogue. I have also seen some free instructions for laptop cases on various websites.
Ellen
Here’s a site with a free pattern with tutorial for a nice and seems-to-be easy laptop sleeve:
http://whipup.net/2007/12/16/tutorial-fabric-laptop-sleeve/
Ellen