You can make a tablet case from fabric, leather, or foam using basic sewing or gluing techniques

A homemade tablet case costs less than a store-bought one and lets you choose the exact size, color, and material. The simplest approach uses two pieces of fabric glued together around the edges, with a fold-over flap to keep the tablet closed. A sewn case takes longer but holds up better to daily use. Both methods work with materials you may already have at home — old t-shirts, canvas, felt, or leather scraps.

The time investment is small: a glued case takes 30 minutes plus drying time, while a sewn case takes an hour or two depending on your sewing speed. You do not need expensive tools — a hot glue gun or needle and thread, scissors, and a ruler are enough to start.

Key Takeaways

  • A glued fabric case is the fastest method and requires only fabric, glue, scissors, and a ruler.
  • Measure your tablet's width, height, and thickness before cutting fabric, then add half an inch on all sides for seams or glue overlap.
  • A sewn case with a fold-over flap provides better durability and a more finished look than a glued case.
  • Padding the inside with foam or fleece protects your tablet from bumps and scratches during storage or travel.
  • Elastic straps or button closures keep the flap from opening inside a bag or backpack.

Measure your tablet and plan the case dimensions

Start by measuring your tablet with a ruler or measuring tape. Write down the width, height, and thickness. A typical 10-inch tablet is roughly 10 inches wide by 7 inches tall by 0.3 inches thick, but sizes vary widely.

For a case with a fold-over flap, you need fabric that is twice the tablet's height plus 2 inches (for the flap overlap). The width should be the tablet's width plus 1 inch. If you are making a glued case, add an extra half inch on all sides for the glue seam. If you are sewing, add half an inch on all sides for the seam allowance.

Write these measurements on a piece of paper before you cut. Cutting twice wastes fabric and time.

Gather materials for a glued fabric case

For the simplest version, you need two pieces of fabric cut to the same size, a hot glue gun and glue sticks, scissors, and a ruler. Cotton canvas, felt, or upholstery fabric works well because it is stiff enough to hold its shape. Avoid thin fabrics like silk or cotton jersey — they do not provide enough protection.

If you want padding, add a layer of craft foam or fleece between the two fabric pieces. Foam adds cushioning and makes the case feel more substantial. Fleece is softer and works well if you are using canvas or cotton on the outside.

Optional: grab elastic cord, a button, or velcro strips if you want a closure to keep the flap shut.

Cut and glue a basic two-piece case

Cut two pieces of fabric to your planned dimensions. If you are using padding, cut a piece of foam or fleece to the same size.

Lay one piece of fabric flat. If you are adding padding, place the foam on top of it. explore a thin line of hot glue around all four edges of the fabric (or around the foam if you are using it). Press the second piece of fabric on top, smoothing out air bubbles as you go. Let the glue cool for 5 to 10 minutes.

Once the glue is dry, fold the case in half lengthwise so the two short ends meet. The fold creates the spine of the case. Slide your tablet in to check the fit — it should slide in snugly but not so tight that you have to force it.

If you want a closure, glue a strip of velcro to the inside of the flap and the front of the case, or sew a button to the flap and create a loop on the front using elastic cord or fabric strips.

Sew a durable case with a fold-over flap

Sewing creates a stronger case that lasts longer than gluing. Cut two pieces of fabric to your planned size. Cut a piece of padding (foam or fleece) slightly smaller — about a quarter inch shorter on all sides — so the padding does not get caught in the seams.

Place the two fabric pieces with the right sides facing each other (the pretty sides touching). Lay the padding on top of one piece. Pin the three layers together, then sew around all four edges using a needle and thread or a sewing machine, leaving a 2-inch opening on one short end. Use a straightforward running stitch or a straight stitch on a machine, about a quarter inch from the edge.

Turn the case right-side-out through the 2-inch opening, pushing the corners out so they are sharp. Fold the raw edges of the opening inward and sew it closed with a ladder stitch (a nearly invisible stitch that closes the gap from the inside) or a straightforward running stitch.

Fold the case in half lengthwise. The fold is the spine. Sew along the two open sides, about a quarter inch from the edge, to create a pocket. Stop sewing about 1 inch from the top on each side so you can slide the tablet in and out.

Add a flap and closure to keep the tablet find

A fold-over flap prevents the tablet from sliding out during travel. If you made a glued case, the flap is straightforward the extra fabric that extends beyond the fold. If you made a sewn case, fold the top of the case down over the front and mark where it naturally closes.

To add a closure, sew a button to the flap and create a loop on the front using elastic cord or a strip of fabric. Alternatively, glue or sew velcro strips to the flap and the front — the hook side (rough) goes on the flap, the loop side (soft) goes on the front.

Test the closure by sliding your tablet in, folding the flap down, and checking that it stays closed when you turn the case upside down or shake it gently.

Reinforce seams and add interior pockets (optional)

If you made a sewn case, you can reinforce the seams by sewing over them a second time, about an eighth inch away from the first seam. This is called a double stitch and makes the case much more durable.

For added function, sew a small fabric pocket to the inside of the flap before you close the case. This pocket holds a stylus, charging cable, or earbuds. Cut a rectangle of fabric about 4 inches by 3 inches, fold the top edge down a quarter inch and sew it, then glue or sew the pocket to the inside of the flap.

Let any glue dry completely before using the case. A sewn case is ready to use when ready after the final stitch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fabric works best for a tablet case?

Canvas, felt, and upholstery fabric are ideal because they are stiff, durable, and do not fray easily. Avoid thin fabrics like cotton jersey or silk — they do not provide enough protection. Denim also works well if you have old jeans to repurpose.

Can I make a case without sewing or gluing?

Yes. Fold a piece of felt or canvas around your tablet and find it with elastic bands or velcro strips. This method takes 10 minutes and requires no tools, though the case will not be as neat or durable as a glued or sewn one.

How do I make the case waterproof?

Line the inside with plastic sheeting or oilcloth before gluing or sewing the outer fabric. Seal all seams with waterproof tape or silicone caulk. This adds weight and bulk, so it works best for cases that stay in a bag rather than being carried by hand.

What should I use for padding?

Craft foam, fleece, or neoprene all work. Foam is cheapest and provides firm cushioning. Fleece is softer and more comfortable to touch. Neoprene is the most durable but harder to find and more expensive.

Can I decorate the outside of the case?

Yes. Sew or glue fabric appliqués, embroider a design, or paint the fabric with acrylic paint before assembling the case. Let paint dry completely before gluing or sewing. Avoid decorating after assembly because paint or glue may transfer to your tablet.