Felted Electronics Cover

Felted Electronics Cover by Terry Morris

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern provides instructions for creating a protective felted cover designed to fit small electronic devices such as cellphones, DS Lite handheld gaming systems, or Blackberry PDA devices. The project combines knitting and felting techniques to produce a customized gadget sleeve that shrinks and densifies during the felting process, resulting in a durable, finished accessory. The cover is an ideal quick-knit gift project suitable for crafters of various skill levels.

What Is Being Made

A small, fitted electronics cover that protects portable devices. The cover is knit in the round to create a seamless tube structure, then intentionally felted to achieve the final dimensions and texture. Before felting, the piece measures approximately 6.5 inches by 4.25 inches. After the felting process, it shrinks to approximately 4.75 inches by 3.5 inches, creating a snug fit for the intended device.

Knitting Techniques

• I-Cord Cast On: The pattern begins with an I-cord cast on, a specialized cast-on method that creates its own finished edge while simultaneously building a button loop into the foundation. This technique eliminates the need for separate finishing steps and adds both functionality and visual interest to the cover's opening.
• Knitting in the Round: The cover is constructed using circular knitting methods worked on double point needles, creating a seamless tubular fabric without side seams.
• Felting: After knitting is complete, the wool cover undergoes a felting process that causes the fibers to lock together, resulting in significant shrinkage, increased density, and a finished, professional appearance.

Stitches and Stitch Details

• Knit Through Back Loop (K1 tfbl, K2 tfbl): The I-cord cast on employs knit stitches worked through the back loop, a technique that creates a twisted stitch appearance and contributes to the structural integrity of the cast-on edge.
• Slip Stitches: Three stitches are repeatedly slipped back to the left needle during the I-cord cast-on process, a method that builds the cast-on stitches incrementally while maintaining the cord structure.
• Total Cast-On Stitches: The pattern calls for casting on a total of 36 stitches, providing adequate fabric width for the electronics cover.

Materials and Supplies

• Yarn: Worsted weight, 100% wool in two contrasting colors. Only small amounts of yarn are required for this compact project, making it an economical choice for stash-busting or gift-making.
• Needles: US Size 7 double point needles, appropriate for worsted weight yarn and circular knitting construction.
• Notions: One large button for closure, integrated into the design via the built-in button loop created during the I-cord cast on.

Design Features

The pattern incorporates several thoughtful design elements. The I-cord cast on serves a dual purpose: it creates a finished, decorative edge while simultaneously forming the button loop closure in a single step. The use of two contrasting yarn colors adds visual interest and allows for creative color combinations. The felting process not only reduces the cover to its final dimensions but also creates a dense, protective fabric that shields electronic devices from scratches and minor impacts.