I have been approached by a local store to make ipod/mp3 cases. Which is kind of nice because I've been meaning to make myself one for awhile.

I have three templates and am having a hard time figuring out what features to keep and what not to keep.

So my first question: Do I make something that is just a case to store the player when not in use, or do I make something that stores it and so it can be used at the same time?

This is the first one. It measures about 3"x2 1/2" when closed. It has a ribbon across the front so you can tuck the flap in, and a key ringy thing on the back so you can attach it to a key chain, belt loop or whatever else.

There is also a small hole for an earplug cord, so that it can be used while in the case.

Questions: Do you like the ribbon? Is it too much to worry about (it takes a minute to get it tucked in, is this too much work?) Is the key chain thingy needed?

Option 2: This one is tall...it's about 3 inches tall and 2.5"wide. It has velcro to close, does not have the key thingy and does have a small hole in a corner for the cord (not pictured).

  

Option 3: Same shape as the one above, but a zipper to close instead of velcro.
 

Other considerations: All three are made with padding, which will stay as a feature. The second two were also made with interfacing, to give the outside a little stiffness and overall a bit more weight to the case. I think I will also keep this as an option because it makes it overall look more professional. (So the first one would be a bit more sturdy).

Of course, I could make them with a variety of options too and could vary the options. And of course they'll need to be in different sizes for the various sizes of mp3s and ipods.

Okay, so opinions???
Thanks!

Comments

[Karen]

You are so talented. I like all three. I love the look of the ribbon, but would worry about the I-Pod falling out of the case. Maybe you could combine velcro (or a snap) and the ribbon. I like the hole for the cord to come out. I would use the case for storage and protection while using my I-Pod. I think the clasp is important, so I could hang it from my belt loop while walking or jogging (as if I jogged). But, it might hang more comfortable if the case was vertical. I can't wait to see your finished product.

[IPJanet]

Those are so cool ~ you are amazing with the sewing! I like zipper best, and the velcro next. I would worry that it wasn't secure enough with just the flap tucked into the ribbon. And I agree that the clasp would work better at the tall end so that it hung vertically. The hole for the earplug cord is key! What do you think about an outside pocket/flap to slip in an ID or credit card?

[S]

I'd say make 'em for when not in use and call them "sleeping bags." You might want to consider making them even a little bigger to cover any hard case so that folks don't have to remove their ipod/iphone to put into your product. I for one am really leery of removing the hard case from my phone in case I drop it.

[Nancy]

I like the look and style of option 2. Horizontal is better. The key fob thing may be good for hanging it on a belt loop. Janet's idea for a pocket or flap is a good one. Just a slip for a credit card/license. Sleeping bag is cool. Also, you could call it "Ibagg"? I don't think it is taken for something like this; it sounds cute.

[Erin (DinnerTimeChimes)]

Looking good so far! I don't personally own one, so take that into consideration when reading my "two cents"...
I like vertical and to keep it safely inside my vote would be for velcro/snaps. The ribbon adds a nice touch though, maybe users could slip their hand through that when holding the ipod and walking... I think that the bouncing of the case suspended from the keyring would get on my nerves while exercising, but I'm not sure how that could be remedied either though. Good luck--let us know when you get your final design!

[LuckyGirl]

I tell our pre-teen several times each weekend to put the ipod down before she (pours a drink, carries a plate, walks into the bathroom, etc). A case that works while you're using it and can be clipped to your belt loop or otherwise attached to your body is just what she needs.