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  1. #1

    Natural Progression of DIY Projects

    I have always been fascinated by the gear that people make for themselves and always wanted to try but never had the money to get what I needed to start. Now there is a sewing machine that I may be able to get for free from a relative and I am looking to try my hand at DIY gear.

    I was wondering what a good starting point is to learn the sewing skills and every thing necessary to make your own gear. I have no background in it at all. What is the progression of projects for making gear?

  2. #2
    Senior Member eflat7's Avatar
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    I started with a stuff sack... then two. They both came out great and I feel like I have the knack to do something bigger and better but havent yet. I just had a hard time learning how to start the bobbin. After I got that going I just started sewing like I thought it should be done. This site has great resources. Also check these sites.

    http://www.backpacking.net/makegear.html
    http://www.specialtyoutdoors.com/tips/tips.asp

  3. #3
    Senior Member NCPatrick's Avatar
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    Another good link for DIY is:

    http://www.tothewoods.net/HomemadeGear.html


    "Civilization is the limitless multiplication of unnecessary necessities."
    - Mark Twain
    “I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.”
    - John Burroughs

  4. #4
    Senior Member lvleph's Avatar
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    Order of difficulty:
    1. Stuff sacks are really easy.
    2. Hammocks are only difficult, because of size.
    3. A tarp can be easy (Square), but also can be a pain (Cat).
    4. I didn't think a backpack was too difficult.
    5. Sleeping bag
    6. Clothing, excluding insulated.
    7. Insulated clothing, especially down.

    Maybe six and seven can be switched, but it kind of depends on the clothing item.

  5. #5
    Senior Member Cannibal's Avatar
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    Stuff Sacks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Start there and you'll be much happier. I tried a hammock first and was very frustrated with the long hem lines. I did a few stuff sacks and tried the hammock again and couldn't believe the difference in my comfort level. After that it's just what you need/can afford that will guide you.

    After swearing I'd never be a DIYer (I think I owe HE some money on that bet), within 3 months I had a handful of stuff sacks, a potomac (kickass quilt), a BlackCat (really messed up the first attempt ), and 4 hammocks. It is a serious addiction, don't take it lightly. Oh yeah, been playing with stoves lately (no sewing!).

    You'll be surprised how quick you pick it up. My early projects are pretty ugly, but they are getting better every time. Good luck!

  6. #6
    Senior Member FanaticFringer's Avatar
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    My progression: hammock, bug bivy, no seeum snakeskins
    "Every day above ground is a good day"

  7. #7
    Senior Member gunn parker's Avatar
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    Does anyone have any plans for a pack?
    I am think of making basically a stuff sack with a strap closure across the top going from the front to back and with shoulder and waist straps.
    Thanks
    Gunn
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  8. #8
    Senior Member lvleph's Avatar
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    Go to www.thru-hiker.com; AYCE has directions for the lab pack. That will help you get started.

  9. #9
    Senior Member Cannibal's Avatar
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    Preacha Man made a lightweight pack and posted the results and basic directions here.

    Might give you some ideas.

  10. #10
    Senior Member Preacha Man's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Cannibal View Post
    Preacha Man made a lightweight pack and posted the results and basic directions here.

    Might give you some ideas.
    Yeah, my wife is really the sewer (hahaha I love that spelling), but I made the pack all by myself, and surprisingly it wasn't that hard. I think the most important thing with DIY things is to thoroughly think and plan them out, then go slowly until your comfortable.
    Psalm 19:1-3 "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard."

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