Mod Your ENVY 14 Spectre Laptop Sleeve

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I’ll admit, after I chatted with Jenni Radosevich, I got into more of a DIY mindset. Here’s my problem: I’m more of the modder type, goofing around with computer cases and such – not exactly a needlepoint pro. Besides, the ENVY 14 Spectre already comes with a neoprene case. I just want to jazz it up and make it uniquely mine. Want to follow along with my harebrained idea? Keep reading.

First thing to bear in mind: The trim black neoprene case that the ENVY 14 Spectre ships in is meant for one thing: protection. Neoprene is not an easy material to work with. It’s water repellent so most tapes and glues won’t last long here. And needles? You need to get something tough enough to punch a hole through the material and thread strong enough to secure stuff down. Last, but not least, you need an awesome notion of what you can do with the case.

Me? I had this wacky idea to take advantage of a small messenger bag that I got as a gift. It already had some Velcro strips sewn into the bag’s lining. The company’s assumption is that you would drop down extra cash for their Velcro-ed pouches and protective sleeves. No need! I headed over to the local craft store and got on the case….as it were.

After some helpful tips from random people roaming the aisles, here’s what I grabbed.

• Industrial Strength Velcro – This will be securing a laptop to the side of a bag, so I am not messing around here.
• A heavy-duty needle capable of working on leather – Neoprene is a little more forgiving than leather to work with, but better safe than sorry. Besides, it needs to go through both the neoprene as well as the Velcro.
• Upholstery thread – while the back of the Velcro strip has a strong adhesive, it won’t last forever. I need to stitch a couple lines into the ends of the Velcro I slap on the case.
• A thimble (and probably some Band-Aids) – hey, when you’re a klutz like me, you plan for the worst. Like accidentally stabbing yourself.
• Accessorize it like a boss – of course, you need to express yourself a little. While there was no bedazzler for sale at the store, they did have some awesome fabrics. I only needed to choose between the Hello Kitty or Star Wars print. Decisions, decisions…but before I pulled the trigger on either, I came up with a sweet idea – silk screening! Cool designs printed – and heated – onto the neoprene. Small problem: I don’t have silk-screening gear….but I know a place near me that does.

Backyard Boogie is an awesome, creative joint that’s set up for all sorts of things – beyond hanging out. They make sweet T-shirts, they work in silk screens…and they were kind enough to test my theory on getting silk screens applied to the ENVY 14 Spectre’s neoprene case. (Maybe there’s someplace similar near you.) So a big shout out to Hayes (pictured) and Nate for the help!