August 1, 2005 Under Cover There was a time when pulling an iPod out of your pocket was enough to draw looks. What IS that? No way! You got one? What does it do, exactly? Thousands of silhouetted dancers later, you're feeling like the emphasis is less on edge than on everybody, and the only way to inspire envy is to have more gigs than the next guy. But there is a way to get back that first-on-your-block feeling without a hardware upgrade. Make your iPod an original with a custom case from Arty. This Britain-based enterprise will turn the image of your choice into a unique Pod pouch. Send your artwork by email and they bust it out in 20,000 to 30,000 stitches. Because of the nature of the process (sewing, not printing), you're better off choosing an image with "strong blocks of colour and space between lines." It's high-tech meets hand-made when your tunes are all dressed up in a one-of-a-kind-coat. But the cost of originality runs steep. Arty cases are priced individually but most cost between £32 and £34 ($56 - $67). The cost of shipping to the US is included in your quote. Sure, it puts a dent in your wallet. But it will give your iPod some iPride. Arty custom iPod cases. Expect delivery within three weeks.