Tech Savings 101 – DIY iPad Case: Are You Up For the Challenge?
Protecting your iPad with a case is a must. As one of the most technologically advanced devices on the market today that allows you to have infinite amounts of knowledge at your fingertips, it deserves strong protection. But instead of just going to the store and buying a case, some crafty folks are considering making their own. While it’s not for everyone, creating a case for you iPad can be simple and allows you to construct the exact cover you want – plus, the financial savings are nothing to scoff at.
Start With Planning
Before you go and wrap your iPad in duct tape, search for a plan or an outline of a design that you want to construct. Think about the colors you would like to use, the materials you like, and how sturdy you want your finished product to be. The Internet is rife with information on do-it-yourself projects, and a quick search can lead to an abundance of designs, from the simple to the elaborate, that will surely fit your needs.
Some people choose to use regular cloth materials to drape their iPad for a chic look, while others use old workbooks or math notebooks to create a stylish flip cover.
Find Time for the Project
While buying an iPad case is as easy as going to the store and picking out the one you like best, making a case is a bit more time consuming. It involves finding the right materials, sitting down for a while, and constructing it entirely from scratch. If you have some free time during the week, pick a time that you can sit down with your plan and make the case you want.
And don’t get discouraged; if the first time doesn’t work, try again until you’ve got the finished product you desire.
Set a Cost Limit
While making a case for your iPad is a project that’s cheaper than buying one, be sure that you set a cost limit and keep it in mind before starting out. Gathering materials and supplies that you’ll use to deck out your new device can be fun, but setting a ceiling before you go shopping can ensure that you don’t blow your budget on cool designs and tools.
It’s also a good idea to compare the cost options before beginning on your new creation. If the tools and materials used to make your own iPad case end up being more expensive than some of the better cases for sale, you might want to consider purchasing one instead. And if it takes more than just a few hours, or even days, to construct the cover, it may be a better idea to look at the store shelves for what’s out there.
Head to the Store
If you have gotten halfway through creating your new iPad case, or you just don’t think that it is the right project for you, go to your local electronics store to see what the options are for store-bought iPad cases. Many cases offer superior protection to ensure that your iPad will receive no damage from external factors while others mostly provide aesthetic appeal and nominal protection. Each case is made for a specific purpose, with some offering gadgets such as flip covers, keyboards, and even built-in speakers.
Choose for Yourself
Protecting your iPad from any damage is a sure way to make it last for a while. If you’re up for the challenge, consider making a case that will fit your device; if not, head to the store and find the right option for you.
About the Writer: Omar Wu is a freelance writer and published blogger – he’s up for a do-it-yourself project just as much as the next person, but usually opts for the added features a purchased case can provide. He went with one of the kensington i pad covers and did a little custom work on the cover for his iPhone; just remember to choose your supplies wisely!
Category: Technology
