Send us a text In this episode, Owen Forbes of ULA Equipment breaks down their full design-to-production process and explains the real-world advantages of keeping manufacturing in-house. You’ll learn how domestic production impacts prototyping speed, product quality, and design flexibility. Plus, what it really takes to run a sewn goods operation without outsourcing. Guest: Owen Forbes - Product Designer at ULA ULA Website ULA Products Mentioned: Circuit Circuit SV Custom Packs RBTR Products: 21...
Jul 16, 2025•1 hr 22 min•Season 1Ep. 126
Send us a text Do you know what makes a sewing pattern great? We're not talking about being just usable, but functional, inclusive, and built to last. In this episode, we sit down with Ellie Rivkin of Road Trip Pattern Co to unpack her approach to designing technical apparel patterns, from inspiration and tools to testing and fit. Ellie has an impressive resume with companies like Gap, Wooland, Northwest Alpine, and now Columbia Sportswear all on her portfolio. We're not even here to talk about ...
Jul 02, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 125
Send us a text In this episode Carter and Jameson pull back the curtain on fanny pack features. This isn’t advice from the sidelines. It’s hands-on insight from makers who know their way around patterns, materials, and how to build gear for every-day maker. Whether you're trying to choose the panel design, dial in your seam finishing, or avoid features that sound cool but flop in real life, we’ve got you covered. Show Links: Reflective Mesh Center Push Magic Buckle 210D Venom™ Gridstop Fidlock V...
Jun 18, 2025•56 min•Season 1Ep. 124
Send us a text In this episode, Dan Durston opens up his gear design playbook — sharing the principles, philosophies, and materials that guide his top-rated products. From the drama behind the X-Dome tent to bold opinions on fabrics like Challenge TNT, Dan doesn’t hold back. If you care about thoughtful design, innovative materials, and what it takes to build gear that actually works, this one’s a must-listen. Links: Durston Gear Episode 45 Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripsto...
Jun 04, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 123
Send us a text After analyzing thousands of products, we've been able to identify common construction mistakes that are plaguing makers everywhere. We highlight the top 10 problems that can serious impact the durability, longevity, and quality of your products. Listen to this episode to save yourself the headaches that MYOGers before have endured. Episode Links: Scissor Magnets Magnetic Seam Guide Ep. 106 with Dan McKewen Dyneema® Repair Tape MIL-SPEC Nylon Grosgrain Ribbon Packing Cube Kit Sewi...
May 20, 2025•57 min•Season 1Ep. 122
Send us a text You know that moment when someone looks at your MYOG project and says, “I can tell”? Ryan Campbell of The Wandering Goat is sharing 7 tips to make your gear look and feel professional—like it came straight from a factory floor, not your garage. We sit down with Ryan Campbell, a small-batch bag maker known for highly customized, thoughtfully crafted gear. From bright-eyed beginner to shipping bespoke pieces to international clients, Ryan’s been through the full arc of the MYOG jour...
May 07, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 121
Send us a text Projector sewing is one of the fastest growing trends in the sewing world. In this episode, we break down what projector sewing is, how it works, and why it's gaining popularity in both home sewing and DIY gear-making. From gear recommendations and setup tips to pattern formats and software options, we’re covering everything you need to know to get started. Plus, Francesca shares her own journey into projector sewing, the challenges she faced early on, and the favorite projects sh...
Apr 23, 2025•53 min•Season 1Ep. 120
Send us a text Is making your own gear actually saving you money? According to our math, DIYers can sometimes save up to 200%—but we've also seen folks drop $300 on a project they could’ve bought for $250. In this episode, we break down the three tiers of MYOG , what drives costs in each, and what makers are really spending when they go the DIY route. Products Mentioned: Kits/Patterns: ZPP Tarp Wallet Bear Bag Kit with Dyneema® Composite Fabric Alpha Raglan Hoodie Dias Shorts Fabrics: 210D Venom...
Apr 09, 2025•44 min•Season 1Ep. 119
Send us a text Data sheets help give quantitative data on how a fabric performs. This data is invaluable but can be confusing if you don't know what you're looking at. That's why we did this episode. Maddie Wilson from NC State's College of Textiles helps us understand how each test is performed and what the test value really means. Show Links: Here is an example of a data sheet. You can find data sheets in the photo carousel of most product pages. NC State Wilson College of Textiles Summer Cour...
Mar 26, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 118
Send us a text We feature as the guest on this "ask us anything" style of episode. Listen to hear us talk about fabric application, sewing tips, business changes, and other things that makers have requested to know. Product Links: Schmetz Universal Machine Needles Schmetz Sharp/Microtex Machine Needles Gutermann MARA 70 Gutermann MARA 50 210 Venom™ Gridstop ECO Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbytheroll.com...
Mar 12, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 117
Send us a text If you ask Chat GPT what the 5 keys to a great bikebag are, you'll get a good list. But it may not be vetted from professional bike bag makers like our list is in this episode. We talk with Lane and Steph from Oveja Negra. The so called, Black Sheep, of the bikebag work will surprise you in their keys to the bags that carry us on our two-wheeled adventures. Oveja Negra Please note: Our guests were recording in their sew shop. This makes the conversation feel very organic, like two...
Feb 27, 2025•51 min•Season 1Ep. 116
Send us a text Whether you're a DIYer or a small business owner, choosing the right machine can be overwhelming—and buying the wrong one can cost you time, money, and frustration. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know, from researching machine types and trusted brands to spotting red flags in listings and inspecting a machine before you buy. Maker Meet Up: https://form.typeform.com/to/lH0FEfYJ Apply for the 2025 Maker Sponsorship: https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pages/maker-spo...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 115
Send us a text There are DIY gems hiding all around us. From building precision patterns to upcycling materials - we're sharing creative ways to prototype, reinforce, and customize gear so you can optimize your projects. Listen to get inspired, think outside the box, and elevate your gear-making game. If you want to check out links for the products that are mentioned and read the blog associated with this episode, check that out here. Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbythe...
Jan 29, 2025•44 min•Season 1Ep. 114
Send us a text This episode is a little different than most. Instead of skipping this week, we decided to give you a short episode because we have some exciting news! Tune in to hear about, the hardest pack Jameson has ever made, stories from behind the scenes of our newest fabrics, as well as the details on our maker meet up next month. New Products: Shop the New Year New Gear Sale https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pages/new-year-new-gear-2025 210D Venom™ Gridstop ECO https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pr...
Jan 15, 2025•31 min•Season 1Ep. 113
Send us a text Many people know the joys of hammock camping and sleeping in an elevated system. But there are perils as well. For example, plummeting to the earth in the middle of the night. In this episode, we talk with Matt Smith from Dream Hammock about how to choose the right fabric and avoid injury, improve your sleep, and keep your base-weight down. Guest: Matt Smith https://dream-hammock.com/ Products: 1.7 oz MTN XL Hybrid Ripstop Nylon 1.6 oz HyperD 1.2 oz MTN XL Hybrid Ripstop Nylon 6.6...
Jan 01, 2025•46 min•Season 1Ep. 112
Send us a text If you want to become a better maker, understanding the nuances of fabrics and fabric attributes is crucial to your development. We still hear a lot of people mention old or disproven theories about what fabrics can and cannot do. Don't be left in the dark. Listen to hear about 8 common fabric myths and how they impact your projects. The Myths 1. Technical Fabrics are uncomfortable against the skin 2. The best insulation is always down 3. DCF is a weak textile 4. DWR lasts forever...
Dec 18, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 111
Send us a text No matter your skill level, all DIYers are trying to save time on their projects, clean up difficult skills, and become better makers. One way that you can cut time is by using gadgets. However, not all gadgets are the silver bullet you're hoping for. In this episode, Matt Evans joins us to share his experience using sewing and DIY gadgets. PLUS, we list 5 items you MUST have on your wishlist. Wishlist: Spring Loaded Snips https://amzn.to/41f4GZh Needles https://ripstopbytheroll.c...
Dec 04, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Season 1Ep. 110
Send us a text DIY kits are an easy way to have a little MYOG fun. The pre-cut pieces and detailed instructions mean you don't have to think much, you can get to the fun part - sewing. We're introducing ways to have the bespoke nature of a custom project with the ease of a DIY kit. We'll go over three ways you can modify your DIY kits plus tips and tricks on how you can make each kit your own. Kit Sale 2024: https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pages/diy-kit-sale Shop All DIY Kits: https://ripstopbyther...
Nov 20, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 109
Send us a text There are thousands of components on the market. It's awesome, but it can be overwhelming and a bit dizzying. In this episode, we're going to cut through the pages of fluff to give you a list of 6 components you MUST have at all times. These should be staples in the bins of any maker from a basement MYOGer or product designer. Products Mentioned: Slik Clip UL Side Release Buckle Kross Buckle UL Kitty Clip Two hole anchorable cordlock Anchorable cordlock Regular cordlock Metallica ...
Nov 06, 2024•58 min•Season 1Ep. 108
Send us a text Imagine a world where waterproof/breathable materials really work, where there is mosquito proof apparel, or where fabrics can harvest power like a battery. These (and others) are innovations that Dr. Amanda Mills and her colleagues are working on at the NC State Wilson College of Textiles. Despite their groundbreaking research, they're not hiding their results in an underground lab. In fact, NC State offers courses for graduate, undergrad, and even online public extensions for ma...
Oct 24, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 107
Send us a text Whether you're using a dining room table or moving into your own shop, the right space makes all the difference. In this episode, we're back with Daniel McKewen to talk about building your MYOG workshop. We'll give tips for anyone from weekend hobbyists to cottage companies looking for faster production. Listen to hear about: The three machine every maker needs How your space should be laid out Unconventional tools that offer big time help Recommendations on pattern storage Chapte...
Oct 09, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 106
Send us a text It's time to think about staying warm on those cold backcountry nights. In this episode, we are talking about how to make a down quilt. Our guest has a lot of experience with down projects and is going to give us his best tips and tricks so you can save some hassle. Listen to hear more about: How to make a reusable quilt pattern Material recommendations Which fill power is preferred Tips on sizing your panels Easiest features to include Products Mentioned in the episode: Check out...
Sep 25, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 105
Send us a text Challenge Sailcloth has been taking the industry by storm with polarizing materials like ULTRA Weave, ECOPAK, ULTRA TNT and others. We sit down with Wes Hatcher (Director of Challenge Outdoor Sales and Development) and talk about what went wrong, what's going well, and what it's like designing outdoor materials for a living. Wes is a fascinating guy who has been in the outdoor textiles industry for a long time. His career has taken a series of exciting turns. Starting with DSM whe...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 104
Send us a text Overview: Pattern building can be tricky. Despite the perils, knowing how to make a pattern is a really good skill for makers to possess. Through good patterning skills you can start to make more featured projects, get a lot more specific on your panel dimensions, and be more confident in your designs. Listen to this episode to hear about: The three methods we recommend at-home makers try Pros and cons for each method Tools needed to build patterns Tips and tricks to get the best ...
Aug 28, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 103
Send us a text Sewing is a skill that can take thousands of hours to hone. We can't replace time on the machine but we can give you helpful tips that should cut out a few hours and a few costly errors from your future projects. Listen to this episode to hear 10 tips to level up your sewing and design skills. Skills that we discuss: 1. How to sew circles that don't pucker 2. Tips on binding 3. Where to sew on your zipper tape 4. How to get good at hemming 5. How to get a crisp corner 6. Sewing mu...
Aug 14, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 102
Send us a text We love shedding the light on cottage companies that you may have never heard of. This week we are talking with Kelsey, founder and owner of KEL Tech gear. A company that makes durable, colorful, and fun every day bags. Listen to this episode to hear tips about working with thicker fabrics, how to find inspiration as an at-home maker, insight for time management, and why community makes a business successful. Links https://kel-tech-gear.myshopify.com/ @kel-techgear Chapters 00:00-...
Jul 31, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 101
Send us a text In this episode we are talking about MYOG monstrosities, DIY disappointments, hand-made horrors. We’re reflecting on listener submitted stories and sharing some of our own in this 100th episode celebration. We're sharing the mics today with good friends of the podcast, Francesca Hall and Matt Evans. As we celebrate Ep. 100 we want to sincerely thank everyone who has ever listened to the podcast. You, the listener makes all of this possible and we can't thank you enough. Show Notes...
Jul 17, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 1Ep. 100
Send us a text Zpacks is well known for a lot of things. One of which is that they produce all of their gear here in the US. What this means is that they need to hire and train nearly 100 people to make all of this gear. In this episode, we talk to Rob Kibitz, Training Manager at Zpacks about the course that he designed, the techniques they teach, and the attributes he looks for in a sewing machine operator. Check out all that Zpacks does here. Submit your story for Ep. 100 here! Chapters 00:00-...
Jul 03, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 1Ep. 99
Send us a text In this episode we talk about how to make your first tarp. We'll go over popular materials, necessary components, and construction techniques. You won't become a shelter master after this one episode, but it's enough to get you started. Overview: Covering everything from hammocks and ground shelters to multi-use tarps. They share tips for beginners and discuss various styles like flat, two-panel, and ground tarps, weighing the pros and cons of each. Materials and components are a ...
Jun 18, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 98
Send us a text Summary Thomas shares his journey in the MYOG (Make Your Own Gear) community and how he started the Reddit MYOG community. He describes the culture of the community as helpful and welcoming, with a focus on sharing knowledge and assisting newcomers. Thomas also discusses the growth of the MYOG community over the years and the challenges of moderating a large community. He highlights the importance of documentation and open-source information in the MYOG community. Thomas shares hi...
Jun 05, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 97
