There’s a lot to consider when making your own backpack shoulder straps, and hopefully, this post will demystify the process. For simplicity, I’m going to focus strictly on strap construction for larger, multi-day packs rather than trying to cover the full gamut of bags like daypacks or running vests. As a quick refresher from my... Continue Reading →
Stitchback Metamorph Pack: The Hipbelt
I know of only two pattern companies out there with designs for a 40L or larger technical pack: Stitchback Gear and Prickly Gorse Gear. For my backpack project, I selected the Stitchback Gear Metamorph Pack. I chose this specific design because it offers both straight and curved waistband options, features a fully removable and interchangeable... Continue Reading →
Stitchback Metamorph Pack: Prototyping and Materials
Disclaimer: This post will most likely be updated a number of times over the next few months as I remember items I've left off. This is going to be a pretty boring post, only because I'm going to just run through all my materials and supplies plus give you resources on how to prototype a... Continue Reading →
Stitchback Metamorph Pack: Fit Overview
"The secret of getting started is breaking your complex, overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one." - Author Unknown I knew making a larger backpack was going to involve taking the principles I learned from my first pack (here, here, and here) and the concepts from the lumbar pack... Continue Reading →
LP (Lumbar Pack) by Stitchback DIY Trail Gear
After getting hooked on making my own trail gear in 2023—thanks to my successful day pack builds—I knew I wanted to keep making my own gear. This time, I wanted to make a lumbar pack that could comfortably carry 2 liters of water, some snacks, and still sit nicely on the hips. Fitting the Hipbelt... Continue Reading →