Grove is pleased to announce the release of two new iPad 2 accessories to join their existing line of handcrafted bamboo iPhone4 cases. The first option, a hardback case, merges a bamboo back and a customizable leather smart cover and is now available for pre-order. The second, an engraved bamboo iPad skin, adheres to the back of the iPad providing protection and style, and is available beginning March 11th.

Design & Protection without Compromise: The Grove iPad 2 Case

The iPad 2 case, reminiscent of an artist’s portfolio, is the first of its kind. The case’s back is made of solid bamboo in Grove’s Portland studio and hand rubbed with natural oils and waxes for a beautiful and protective finish. The bamboo back is available in two bamboo choices; natural or amber, and all iPad ports and buttons are easily accessible making for a very user-friendly experience. The cover is made of American vegetable tanned leather and incorporates magnets which automatically wake the iPad 2 when it is opened and puts it to sleep when closed. The cover has a soft Ultrasuede lining to help keep the iPad’s screen clean and free of fingerprints. While providing protection, the case maintains the iPad 2’s incredibly slim profile. For added style, Grove offers finely detailed engraving on the case’s leather cover. Customers can select from a constantly expanding artist series featuring fresh and original artwork from around the world, or they can get hands-on by uploading their own artwork.

The Bamboo is finished similar to fine furniture and will age gracefully. The leather will break-in and develop a unique patina over time making each case truly one-of-a-kind.

Slimmest Profile, Handmade Quality: The Grove Bamboo Skin for iPad

The Grove Bamboo Skin for iPad 1 + 2 is perfect for the person that wants an added layer of protection for their iPad whilst adding only 1/32 of an inch. The real bamboo veneer adheres to the back of the iPad protecting the back of the device from scratches and scrapes. The skin features a natural oil finish and cutouts for the rear-facing camera and speakers. It provides an excellent surface to grip while holding the iPad and works well with Apple’s Smart Covers. Skins will be offered in either a natural or an amber bamboo and are available plain, custom, or as part of Grove’s Artist Series.

Continuing On the Right Path

Maintaining the tradition of Grove’s iPhone cases, the iPad 2 cases and skins are designed, crafted and shipped out of South East Portland, not South East Asia. Grove employs 18 Portlanders and every single case shipped is worked on and checked by a large majority of them. Grove strives to practice ethical business principals and treat both their employees and customers with the ultimate level of respect. Grove stands behind their Happiness Policy which states that “We believe in our product and value the happiness of our fans and customers.”

Given the outpourings of love expressed by their 12,000+ Facebook fans, it would appear that Grove’s customers are very happy indeed. As co-founder Ken Tomita says, “If you do a good job, do the right thing, and treat people right, things will work out in the long run."

Pricing and Availability

Grove’s last limited product launch sold out in 10 minutes. While this is not a limited release and both the case and skin will join Grove’s regular product offering, high levels of interest are anticipated. Grove is providing the opportunity, starting today, to reserve an iPad 2 case with a fully refundable $20 deposit. The $20 will go towards the cost of the case, and will ensure earliest receipt of orders, as well as guaranteeing access to introductory pricing. Orders are estimated to begin shipping between 3-6 weeks after March 11th. Introductory pricing will begin at $79.

Grove Bamboo Skins for iPad 1 + 2 will be available for purchase beginning March 11th. Introductory pricing will begin at $29.

About the iPad 2 Skins

• 100% real bamboo
• compatible with Apple?s “smart cover”
• available for iPads 1&2
• laser engraved artist series, custom or plain
• hand-rubbed natural oil finish
• 3M adhesive backed leaves no residue
• choose amber or natural bamboo
• only .025” thin

About the iPad 2 Case

• folds into stand for watching or typing
• “smart” cover puts ipad to sleep when closed
• solid 100% bamboo body
• vegetable tanned leather cover
• laser engraved artist series, custom or plain
• hand-rubbed natural oil finish
• stitched for durability
• choose amber or natural bamboo
• slender and ergonomic profile
• full access to controls and ports
• precision speaker grill

About Grove

Founded in 2009, Grove is a team of designers and makers in Portland, Oregon focused on changing the way you think about products. By doing everything themselves and only selling direct to the consumer, the result is greater innovation, complete accountability, direct human relationships, and superior quality. Grove curates an Artist Series of laser engraved bamboo iPhone4 cases, iPad 2 leather and bamboo cases, iPad 2 bamboo skins and bamboo wall art featuring the work of prominent illustrators from around the world. Grove is more than a company, we’re a community of passionate creators.

SOURCE: Grove