What really gets me is how plain some of those expensive cases are! Okay,
Oberon's style would be too much to expect for $35-55, but still...
I made a case out of a little 2ndhand clutch purse and an old mouse pad (for shock absorbancy) Its just to keep it a little safer when I carry it along or while its on the shelf. I spent a whole $4 for it, and its reasonably sturdy. One of these days I will likely make a nicer one, since I am into crafts, when I have the time for it. For now, this one does the job at a price I could afford ;-)
The Nook STR does seem well-made, but *I* need a case because my jealous kitty would make a point of sitting on it if I left it lying around uncovered.