MANDALA laptop case - cover

MANDALA Laptop/Tablet Case Cover by Patrizia Visciani

What is Being Made

The MANDALA Laptop/Tablet Case Cover is a customizable protective covering designed to fit laptops and tablets of various sizes. This crochet project allows makers to adjust the width based on their specific device measurements, with the designer's example using a 28cm wide laptop as the reference point. The case provides a decorative yet functional accessory that combines colorwork and structured shaping techniques.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using crochet, a fiber craft that uses a single hook to form interlocking loops of yarn. Crochet is ideal for creating structured items like cases and covers because it produces a fabric with excellent drape and durability. The MANDALA case demonstrates intermediate-level crochet skills, making it suitable for crafters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with more complex stitch combinations and color changes.

Stitches Used

The MANDALA case employs a variety of fundamental and intermediate crochet stitches to create its structure and decorative elements:

• Chain stitch (ch) – The foundation stitch used to create the base of the project and increase height within rows
• Single crochet (sc) – A short, tight stitch that creates dense, sturdy fabric
• Half double crochet (hdc) – A medium-height stitch that balances structure with flexibility
• Double crochet (dc) – A taller stitch used extensively throughout the pattern for creating the main fabric
• Treble crochet (tc) – An even taller stitch that adds height and openness to sections
• Slip stitch (sl st) – Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions between sections
• Decrease stitches – Including 2dc tog (2 double crochet closed together) and 3dc tog (3 double crochet closed together) for shaping the case
• Cluster stitches – Including 2 dc cluster and 3 dc cluster techniques, where multiple stitches are worked into the same stitch to create texture and visual interest
• V Stitch – A decorative stitch pattern created by chaining two stitches, skipping one stitch, then working 2 double crochets in the same stitch, repeated throughout rows to form an open, lacy texture
• Back loop double crochet (dc back loop) – A variation where double crochet is worked only through the back loop of the chain stitch, creating a ridged or textured effect

Materials and Tools

The MANDALA case is worked with DK weight yarn (also called light worsted or 8-ply), a medium-weight yarn that provides good stitch definition and durability for a protective case. The pattern calls for BELLE yarn by Drops, a quality yarn line available in multiple colors:

• 100 grams of BELLE Drops in color 01 (white) for the primary base
• 50 grams of BELLE Drops in color 06 (silver)
• 50 grams of BELLE Drops in color 07 (zinc)
• 50 grams of BELLE Drops in color 03 (light beige)
• 50 grams of BELLE Drops in a brown or other dark color for contrast and definition

The project requires two crochet hook sizes to create varied stitch heights and fabric density: a size 3.5 mm hook (UK 9 / US E/4) for tighter, more defined stitches, and a size 4 mm hook (UK 8 / US G/6) for slightly more open sections. A tapestry needle is used for weaving in yarn ends and assembling the finished case.

Design and Colorwork

The MANDALA case incorporates multiple yarn colors to create a mandala-inspired design, a geometric pattern traditionally featuring radial symmetry and intricate detailing. By combining white, silver, zinc, light beige, and dark brown or contrasting colors, the maker can achieve a sophisticated, multi-tonal aesthetic that elevates the case from a simple functional item to a decorative accessory.

Customization and Sizing

A key feature