Substrata’s Wooden iPad Boxes are Closer to Reality

Substrata Creative Studios, the Portland Oregon based makers of fine wooden cabinets, countertops, furniture and cutting boards have been creating distinctive iPod touch and iPhone 3G/3GS cases for some time, but they have now upped their game with the introduction of the Substrata iPad Box (Hinged Lid). Each of these custom cases are made to order, with a shipping wait time of 2 – 3 weeks.

These cases feature:
• an integrated wood hinge with contrasting inlays
• a micro suede lining of lid and base
• wooden latches (with magnetic stops in the ‘open’ and ‘closed’ positions)
• functions as a stand for iPad in both vertical and horizontal orientations
• access to headphone jack and dock connector when lid is open

I signed up for notifications from the company around the time that the WiFi iPad first came out. I had actually forgotten about these cases until an email arrived this morning letting me know that the hinged lid version was ready for order by those who had initially joined the waiting list (along with a secret link for ordering), but the second model — the sliding lid — was still being tested and was currently unavailable.

There is no denying that these iPad cases are beautiful and most likely extremely well made. I can’t tell by the photos, but I am worried that they also add a substantial amount of bulk to the iPad. Subjective as that observation may be, there is no doubt that the Substrata iPad Box’s $275 price tag will put a substantial dent in its owner’s wallet.

But if you love the look and feel of wood on your electronics, there is no denying that these Substrata iPad Boxes have a certain allure.

Enjoy the photos; you’ll notice that a few of the Sliding Lid version have sneaked in. Which do you like better?

Substrata iPad Boxes