If you don't add the Apple sticker, a DIY, Moleskine-style iPad case offers quite a few advantages over Apple's own model. It feels better in the hand, has a customizable backing, and, best of all, doesn't advertise your $500, easily-lifted device.
Commenter theDevilsDue pointed us at this how-to at the Modern Day Pirates site, wherein the author details everything that's great about the DODOcase iPad cover—except the long wait on shipping, and the $49.95 price. Inspired by the look, feel, and protection of an elastic-banded Moleskine notebook, he rounded up supplies and used a class in bookbinding to create a smart Moleskine knock-off case. Here's his supply list, the majority of it bought at Hollanders:
1 sheet of liner paper – $3.50
1 sheet of Imitation Leather Black Morocco (brown also available) - $6.75
1 sheet Davey Binder's Board .098 – $3.75
PVA Glue - Thin 4 ounces – $3.25
Black elastic ribbon – AC Moore – $1.50Total = $18.75
It's the kind of inspired hack that caused Moleskine to finally make its own Kindle cover. We'd guess that the iPad's glass screen prevents the melding of a notebook with this case, but, as Brandon points out, a separate Moleskine now looks nice and orderly next to your iPad.
How to Make a Moleskine iPad Case [The Modern Day Pirates via #tips]