Sunbonnet for Stella

Stella is my iBook. I’m about to take her on a trip to Nova Scotia, for a week-long writing workshop/retreat hosted by Peter Carver and Kathy Stinson. I’m hoping to do some writing outside. Stella has a shiny screen, though, and the glare from the sun gets to be a bit of an issue. 

I looked at different visors that are available, but didn’t like any of them. Macs are nice-looking computers; why cover them up with black vinyl? I also didn’t like the idea of any adhesive residue or velcro pads stuck on the lid. There’s a pretty cool telescoping visor out there, but it cost more than I wanted to spend. 

Fortunately, I have a Mom who’s pretty handy with a sewing machine. I took some measurements, drew up a plan, and brought her some fancy umbrella-patterned fabric (and apple buttons, of course). Here’s the result.  

It might be a bit cutesy for some (okay, for most, and don’t even get me started on what my Mac-loving husband thinks of this whole dress-up thing), but it suits me just fine, and it doesn’t leave any marks on Stella. The top and side panels are reinforced with plastic binder dividers and cardboard. Thin elastic holds the “sunbonnet” on to the laptop lid. The whole thing folds down small enough to fit in my computer bag. 

So, off to Nova Scotia this Saturday for a field test… 

This entry was posted in Writing and tagged , , . Bookmark the permalink.

4 Responses to Sunbonnet for Stella

  1. That’s a great idea – I need something like that too. I hope it works, and that you enjoyed the workshop!

    • admin says:

      Thank you, Janet! Sorry it took me so long to reply. I actually didn’t realize that there were comments…
      I can take pictures of the sunbonnet all laid out, if you like, so you can see how the pieces go together! We’ll start a trend. 😉
      The workshop was wonderful, thanks!

  2. I wish I’d had my camera with me when I caught you down on the beach with Stella and her sunbonnet during free time on the last day. (I had no idea your computer had a name. Now THAT’S cutesy!) Hope your work on DN continues brilliantly!

    • admin says:

      Thanks for commenting, Kathy! Huh. I didn’t think anyone was actually reading this. Guess I should update more often…
      I’m happy you didn’t have your camera with you! Sunbonnet worked great, though. 🙂
      You’re off doing the world-travel thing now, I know… hope you’re having a great time, and seeing lots!

Leave a Reply to Kathy Stinson Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *