Custom-Made Gear

“I am interested in having a backpack custom-made. I already have a pattern and general scematic drawing, but have a question re: the materials list. I want it to be made of a material suitable for sewing patches on (hence the usual nylon weave is out). Are there any such materials with the necessary durability and water-resistance for this?”

“Why don't you want to use nylon? Patches can be sewn to it without any problem and it has many attributes that make a top choice for backpack material. It's durable, cheap, water resistant, easy to work with and available in various weights.”

“I have sewn patches on a silnylon pack with no trouble at all.”

“RichB is the king of homemade gear...”

“I have a pack with 27 patches on it . I use a pack cover. I never have a problem, and some of us are compulsive obsessive. Anything with a stitch can fail. How long you been Backpacking?”

“"Why don't you want to use nylon?" Only because the nylon I've seen didn't look as though it could take patches being sewn on. If you say it can, then okay.

Next phase of the question: the design specs call for the internal frame (aluminium) to be fitted to the shape of the individual's backbone. This would, of course, require in-person fitting sessions with the maker. Do any of you know of any makers who could do this? No restrictions on location; this would be another good excuse to travel.”

“I think Moonbow sews items to your specs so you can email them to find out. Bending the stays to your back can be done later and isn't that big of a deal.

If you don't need a pack of your own design consider contacting Dan McHale and have him build you a pack based on one of his designs. You can pick out what features you want or don't want, but you'll have to stay within his design parameters.”

“I have a pack by Moonbow and love it. I had to take a large sheet of paper and trace the outline of my torso to mail to them. It's made of silnylon. 25#'s and less is very comfy. I've loaded it higher and it just wasn't intended for that weight. I know of others with the same pack made from packcloth that have had good luck with higher loads.”