So the cat has determined that your open laptop is a warm bed on which to rest each time you go to refill your coffee. Maybe the toddler finds the keys particularly entertaining and previously unknown functions have been executed by the little one’s imaginative keystrokes. Maybe the keys just get a little dusty. Whatever the case, it’s easy to protect your laptop keyboard from such daily household elements with the addition of a simple homemade keyboard cover, customized for your unique needs. Make sure you have enough of the chosen material to cover the surface of the laptop, with some left over to make the side and front edges. You’ll also need something to secure the materials, such as tape, glue, staples or screws. The type of securing will depend on the material used. Staples and tape work for such lighter materials as paper and cardboard; screws are needed for Plexiglas, metal or wood. Glue is appropriate for most substances—if it is the right type of glue (e.g., wood glue for wood, white glue for paper). To make sure that the cover stays on, construct side and front edging for it, fastened with screws or glue, and possibly with tape or staples. Paper and cardboard can be folded to make the joints for the sides and front and then glued or taped together, but other substances likely require additional readying, such as drilling holes for screws. Alternatively, make only corner tabs, which will hold the cover on without blocking ports on the side or front of the laptop. Do the same as you would if you were making full length sides, but only use half an inch or so at each of the front corners. Maybe you need the laptop’s side ports to remain functional while the keyboard cover is on. If this is the case, consider measuring and plotting out the right holes to keep those ports accessible. Also, never block the laptop’s fans. This can lead to overheating, which may damage your laptop. Writer Bio
