These new cases Bowden and Sheffield cases are minimal and handcrafted. The cases were the brainchild of Levi Price and Eric Rea, after they couldn’t find a case that was minimal and offered enough protection, without being permanently paired with the iPad.

The cases come in two flavors and both feature a magnetic closure system on the cover, as well as an ultra-soft inner felt lining to help keep your iPad secure. The Bowden Case is milled from aircraft-grade aluminum that’s been bead-blasted and hard-anodized. It includes hand-finishing in either walnut or cherry hardwood with a leather cover. The Sheffield case is made out of milled polycarbonate, and comes with the same choices of wood. The cover is 100% natural wool felt. One thing that makes The Sheffield unique is the built-in dry-erase whiteboard, which lets you write notes somewhere other than your iPad’s screen.

The project is currently seeking funding via Kickstarter. They’ve got 52 backers, and at this time have amassed a total of $5,627 out of a projected goal of $20,000, with 23 days left for funding. These cases are pretty sweet, so I wouldn’t be surprised if they get made. You’ll have to pledge $150 to $170(USD) to get yours.

[via designboom]