Laptop sleeves are padded cases designed to cushion laptop computers as they are transported from place to place. Not sturdy enough to protect the computer if it is dropped, the sleeves usually are used in conjunction with a messenger bag, tote bag or briefcase. The sleeve's purpose is to protect the computer from jolts and bumps, and from other objects carried inside the bag or briefcase.
Assess your needs
Before you begin to design your laptop sleeve, decide what you'll need and what you prefer. If you carry a power cord, mouse or cables with your computer, interior or exterior pockets would be helpful. Sturdy fabrics with a slick surface work best if you'll be sliding your computer sleeve into an already full tote bag. However, a textured fabric surface would allow a better grip if you tend to carry the computer around in just its sleeve.
Decide if you want a machine-washable sleeve (cotton broadcloth or quilted fabrics), or if you would prefer a waterproof one that resists soil and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth (leather or vinyl). Decide of you'd prefer a zipper-topped bag, or an envelope-style sleeve with an overlapping flap secured with hook-and-loop tape, a button or a snap.
Design your sleeve
Gather together everything that will need to be stored in the computer sleeve. Arrange the items on a flat surface as you'd like see them arranged in your bag. Measure the length width and depth you'll need to easily house all of these items, and draw a paper pattern. Don't forget to allow a little extra for ease, and add a 5/8-inch seam allowance to all seams.
Foam padding encased between the sleeve's outer fabric and lining will result in a sturdier, more protective computer sleeve. However, quilt batting is easier to use, and might work well in conjunction with heavier fabrics. In any case, you'll find it easier to slide your laptop into the sleeve if the walls are stiff: Droopy sides will require an extra hand to hold them up as you try to insert the computer.
Make sure to chose a slippery but sturdy lining, no matter what kind of fabric you've chosen for the outside of the sleeve. A slippery lining makes it much easier to slide your computer in and out of the sleeve.
Construct the sleeve
Double-stitch all the exterior seams for added strength and security. Finish the seams if you've used fabrics that ravel at all. If you press the seams open before you add the lining, you'll have sleeker seams and a more professional-looking, attractive sleeve. Keep outside trims, buttons and other notions to a minimum, and choose items with flat, low profiles so that they don't snag on your clothes or on the interior of your purse, tote or brief case.
If you're including a zipper closure at the top of your sleeve, use a heavy duty nylon zipper instead of a metal one to avoid scratching the surface of your computer. It's easiest to install the zipper before you sew the side and bottom seams of the bag, and before you add the lining. Blind-stitch the lining to the underside of the zipper, and securely stitch the bottom of the lining to the bottom of the sleeve to achieve the neatest, least wrinkled lining: Taut lining fabric won't slide up and get caught in the zipper.
Tags: computer sleeve, your computer, before lining, conjunction with, easier slide, easier slide your
