Every now and then I like to step away from the computer and do my creating in an organic manner; one of my favorite means of artistic expression is embroidery, which I have been terribly lax about doing lately.

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

I was sent a Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin last year, and after wasting half a moment considering whether I should attempt to draw (or rather, paint) something amazing to fill its off-white surface, I knew that it was again time to bust out my needles and threads…

But first. let’s talk about the four Skooba Sleeve sizes available:

MICRO 12.25″L x 8.75″H x 1.25″W
1012 13.25″L x 9.75″H x 1.5″W
1415 14.25″L x 11.25″H x 1.75″W
1617 16.25″L x 11.75″H x 2″W

As you have probably guessed, the numbers next to the sizes represent the laptop screen range each will fit. I was sent the 1012, which will fit a 10 – 12″ screen laptop. The small (1012)’s approximate measurements are 13″ wide x 9.25″ tall (flaps folded down) x 1.5″ deep.

In it’s most compact form, the Skooba Sleeve folds over itself as I have shown here. In this configuration, it is perfect for slipping inside another bag or for carrying as a portfolio in the crook of your arm.

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

But when you undo the flaps of the Skooba Skin, something special happens…

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

…a pair of handles are revealed! In this manner, you can carry the Skooba Skin briefcase-style.

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

The Skooba Skin’s exterior is composed of a slightly nubby, off-white cotton material which is perfect for permanent markers, puff-pens, paint-pens, glued-on accoutrements and patches. The fully padded interior is finished in a lovely red nylon.

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

Okay! Here is a closeup of my pink panda and her bamboo dinner; I just finished her last night. Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

I suppose I could do something to the back…but I think I will leave it blank for now.

Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

If the thought of decorating a Skooba Skin gives you the heebie-jeebies, but you still want the convenience of this convertible, then there is no reason to fret. The Skooba Skin is also available in seven different color combinations that won’t require you doing anything creative – other than picking out the one that most suits you. Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin is available directly from the manufacturer and other retailers.
MSRP: $27.95, currently on sale for $20.96
What I Like: I had fun creating the ultimate personalized laptop sleeve; properly protects laptops whether they are carried in another bag or on their own in the sleeve
What Needs Improvement: How is it that I no longer own a laptop small enough to put in this sleeve? Gear Diary The Skooba Design DIY Skooba Skin Review photo

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About Judie Lipsett Stanford

View all posts by Judie Lipsett Stanford
I have had a fascination with all types of gadgets and gizmos since I was a child, beginning with the toy robot that my grandmother gave my brother - which I promptly "relieved him of" in 1973. I have long been captivated by devices that did anything interesting or served a unique purpose - however silly. I can't tell you how everything works – but I am known world-wide for using a product until I have a full understanding of what it does, what its limitations are, and if it excels in any given area...or not.
  • artsygirl

    Judie, and you say you have no artistic talent, that is bologna. I am no good at needle work- much to my grandmothers chagrin. Now this is a much better deal then the Fendi- and I would not be afraid to paint it- I have ordered just ordered mine!
    good job on your panda and her belly button!

  • http://www.geardiary.com Judie Lipsett

    My numb right pointer-finger thanks you. :-D I want to see yours when you are done, too.

  • artsygirl

    Judie, you got it! I am actually thinking about having my graduating 8th grade students each do something- there are only 3 this yr! They are very talented students and think it would make a great teacher bag-
    I will see if Wayne will take a photo and post it for me- I am the gadget-phobic!

  • http://www.geardiary.com Judie Lipsett

    Very cool! If you all do one, then I want to see those, too. ;-)

  • http://www.geardiary.com Allen Hong

    Best DIY Skooba Design I have seen! Judie, if there was a contest, you would take first prize.

  • http://www.geardiary.com Judie Lipsett

    Awwww, thanks Allen. :-D

  • http://dotsisx.blogspot.com khouryrt

    Weew this one is just too cute :) my friend is a big fan of all things pandas, and she transmitted that to me. nice work!

  • http://www.geardiary.com Judie Lipsett

    Thank you Rita. :-D

  • http://www.graphical-illusion.com Elodie

    I end up personalizing just about everything– this is really neat :D (although to be honest I would be afraid of messing up on something cool and…well, not *expensive*, but I wouldn’t buy another if I did mess up!)



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