Ripstop on the Record

SummaryKjell Lindgren recounts his journey into DIY gear-making, sparked by frustrations from his Boy Scout days and basic sewing skills acquired in elementary school. His DIY mindset was solidified during space station training, empowering him to craft gear for his sons' scouting trips. As a NASA astronaut, Kjell's maker mindset proves invaluable, enabling him to solve problems and repair equipment in space. Insights into life aboard the space station, challenges of confined living, water recycling, and spacesuit details are shared. Chapters00:00- Introduction and Background08:56- The Maker Mindset in Space16:06- Challenges of Living on the Space Station32:58- Spacesuit Creation and Sewing Skills48:29- Gaining Perspective from Space56:46- The Need for Affordable and Durable FabricsFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

Join us as we chat with Jameson Collins, the brains behind Houda Trail, a custom outdoor gear brand. Get ready for an inside look into Jameson's journey from gear enthusiast to gear maker extraordinaire. They dive deep into the world of outdoor apparel, geeking out over the wonders of Alpha Direct fabric and the joy of tailoring gear to fit just right. Jameson spills the beans on his sewing secrets with Alpha Direct, sharing handy tips and tricks for making the most out of this high-tech fabric. But that's not all! Jameson lets us in on his adventures with Outdoor Ink and Polartec's Alpha Direct fabric, revealing the magic behind bringing designs to life. From brainstorming to final print, they cover it all, including pro tips for achieving top-notch results. TakeawaysPolartec® Alpha Direct 4004 is now available for custom printing with OutdoorINK!Alpha Direct fabric is highly versatile and ideal for active outdoor activities with start-stop elements.Customization is a key aspect of Houda Trail's business, allowing customers to personalize the fit and design of their outdoor apparel.Houda Trail offers unique prints and designs, adding a fun and personalized touch to their custom apparel. OutdoorINK on Polartec® Alpha Direct fabric is a game changer for custom apparel making.Taking accurate measurements of the chest, waist, hips, and desired garment length is crucial for achieving a customized fit.Follow @HoudaTrail on InstagramChapters00:00- Introduction and Gear Making Journey06:09- Customizing Outdoor Apparel with Houda Trail14:39- The Versatility of Alpha Direct Fabric25:20- Tips for Sewing with Alpha Direct30:19- Achieving a Custom Fit with Houda Trail34:57- Adding a Personalized Touch with Unique Prints38:01- The Importance of Customization in Outdoor Clothing33:09- Custom Printing and Design Process35:03- Tips for Printing on Alpha Direct37:31- The Unique Look and Detail of Alpha Direct45:31- Printing Solid Colors and Color Blocked Fleeces52:35- Poalrtec® TriviaFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

SummaryJoin us in this episode as women in the MYOG community share their journey, tackling stereotypes and biases head-on. From challenging assumptions to promoting inclusivity, they delve into the unique hurdles faced by women in the outdoor industry. Discover the importance of representation in design, overcoming fit challenges, and supporting women-owned brands. Explore strategies for making outdoor gear accessible to all, pricing ethical products, and building a sustainable future through reducing, reusing, and recycling. With a focus on mentorship, collaboration, and driving positive change, this conversation inspires action and solidarity among women in the outdoors. Tune in for insights, excitement about upcoming projects, and a call for continued support in the journey towards a more inclusive outdoor community.TakeawaysInclusivity and representation are crucial in outdoor spaces and the design of outdoor gear.Seeking advice and feedback from women is essential to create gear that fits and meets their needs.Making outdoor gear more accessible requires addressing socioeconomic barriers and finding innovative solutions.Creative collaborations can lead to innovative and impactful outcomes.Embracing a small business, big mindset approach can drive positive change.3.4 oz Nylon Taslan/SupplexWoman-owned Companies DirectoryA HUGE Thank You to our guestsAmy - MODOKOTEmme - Articles in CommonJulianne - Wild Brush Kelsey - KEL Tech GearChapters00:00- Introduction01:14- Inspiration to Get into MYOG25:22- Creating Inclusive Spaces28:58- Lack of Inclusivity in Outdoor Spaces29:45- Importance of Representation in Design30:39- Seeking Advice and Feedback from Women31:18- Challenges with Fit and Sizing36:31- Promoting Women-Owned Brands39:37- The Importance of Visibility and Representation42:53- Changes in Outdoor Gear Design50:25- Making Outdoor Gear More Accessible53:40- Addressing Socioeconomic Barriers01:01:28- Balancing Cost and Sustainability01:07:01- Challenges of Pricing Ethical Gear01:11:08- Thinking Big and Building Community01:12:04- Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle01:13:02- Taking Small Steps to Make a Difference01:13:30- The Importance of Mentorship and Collaboration01:18:33- Collaboration and Creativity in the Outdoor Community01:21:29- Celebrating Women and Collaboration01:23:11- Exciting Projects and Collaboration01:28:52- The Importance of Individual Actions01:29:52- Small Business, Big MindsetFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

SummaryIn this conversation, Chase from Utah State University discusses the Outdoor Product Design and Development Program. The program offers a unique curriculum that focuses on designing and developing outdoor products. Students have the opportunity to specialize in different areas such as performance apparel, soft goods accessories, or equipment. The program cultivates a maker's mindset by encouraging curiosity and creativity. The curriculum includes classes on sketching, digital design, prototyping, and more. The program also addresses sustainability and incorporates sustainable practices into the curriculum. In this conversation, Chase shares insights about senior projects and standout projects from students, the final show and exhibit, the cost of tuition, job placements, the impact of the program on gear, the Outdoor Recreation Archive, and the Highlander Podcast.TakeawaysThe senior projects and standout projects from students showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills.The final show and exhibit provide an opportunity for the public to see the students' work and for companies to find new talent.Job placements for graduates of the program are diverse, with opportunities in both outdoor and non-outdoor industries.The Outdoor Recreation Archive is a valuable resource for exploring the history of outdoor gear and brands.The Highlander Podcast features conversations with gear pioneers and provides insights into the outdoor industry.Books mentioned: Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things, The Design Of Everyday Things: Norman, Don Norman , Design for a Better World: Meaningful, Sustainable, Humanity Centered, Don Norman, The Future of the Responsible Company: What We've Learned from Patagonia's First 50 Years2024 Senior ExhibitOutdoor Recreation Archive Online File SearchUSU Outdoor Product Design and DevelopmentFollow @usuoutdoorproduct on Instagram Follow @OutdoorRecArchive on InstagramHighlander PodcastChapters00:00- Introduction and Background02:27- Overview of the Outdoor Product Design and Development Program06:09- Cultivating a Maker's Mindset11:22- Curriculum and Classes22:36- Staying Ahead of the Curve31:05- Addressing Sustainability36:08- Recommended Books39:15- Senior Projects and Standout Projects42:29- Final Show and Exhibit44:11- Cost of Tuition46:36- Job Placements52:03- Impact of the Program on Gear54:28- Outdoor Recreation ArchiFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

SummarySeveral years ago, you could point to any cottage company and they would likely have several products made out of X-Pac®. Nowadays, it seems like X-Pac® is less used than ever before. In this episode, we talk about why that is and why we feel like its decrease in market share is making it one of the most underrated materials to makers and cottage companies.  Plus, we talk about their new X-Pac® Ultra-PE UL pack material. TakeawaysX-Pac® has experienced a decrease in prominence due to the emergence of new materials and shiny object syndrome.X-Pac® offers high waterproofness and durability, making it suitable for applications such as packs, bags, and outdoor gear. X-Pac® has a high hydrostatic head rating, making it very waterproof.X-Pac® has good abrasion resistance and  lamination techniques and has a long history of experience in the field.X-Pac® is climate-neutral in its production, offsetting emissions from various sources.X-Pac® offers a wide range of printing options through the Outdoor Ink program.When working with X-Pac®, it is recommended to store it on a roll to prevent creasing, use a sharp needle and longer stitch length, and consider binding or taping for finishing.X-Pac's Project 85 is a new material in development that offers a lighter-weight option.The hosts play a game called 'Make, Stash, or Trash', where they choose which materials to use for different projects.Chapters00:00- Introduction01:13- What Happened to X-Pac®?05:32- Decrease in Usage of X-Pac®07:26- Quality of X-Pac®10:22- Cottage Companies and X-Pac®11:40- DIYers and X-Pac®23:41- Applications of X-Pac®26:58- Examples of Projects with X-Pac®30:09- LiteSkin® Line34:18- Applications of X-Pac®40:35- Pros of X-Pac®46:01- Hydrostatic Head and TEP Abrasion Resistance49:53- Lamination and Environmental Focus54:07- X-Pac® Climate Neutrality58:46- OutdoorINK Printing Options with X-Pac®01:03:26- Tips for Working with X-Pac®01:07:34- Why Choose X-Pac® and Other Materials01:11:38- X-Pac® Project 8501:13:59- Make, Stash, or Trash GameFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

SummaryEmbark on an outdoor odyssey with Chris, co-founder of Loop Alien, as he unravels the company's evolution. Loop Alien, a hardware marvel within the Ripstop by the Roll family, crafts tools and kits, transforming hammock setups and tarp rigging into a breeze. Chris delves into the early Ripstop days, his role in the company, and the intricate design process behind Loop Alien's game-changing products, featuring materials like aluminum and titanium. This podcast journey navigates through the customization and material properties of composites, cautioning on 3D printing limitations for load-critical applications. Chris envisions a future merging 3D printing with RBTR fabrics, exploring innovative uses of magnets and the exciting prospects of outdoor hardware. Calling all outdoor enthusiasts – tune in for Chris's insights, where gadgets meet the great outdoors! https://loopalien.com/Instagram: @LoopAlienTakeawaysLoop Alien is a hardware company that provides tools and kits to make outdoor activities easier and more accessible.The design process for Loop Alien's products involves careful consideration of functionality, finishing, and material choice.Loop Alien's focus on flatware design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and efficient use of materials. While 3D printing is becoming more accessible, it is important to be cautious when using 3D printed items for load critical applications.The combination of 3D printing and RBTR fabrics offers opportunities for customization and innovation in outdoor gear.The future of outdoor hardware lies in solving problems and addressing pain points, with an emphasis on user-driven innovation.Chapters00:00- Introduction and Background02:13- Early Days of Ripstop by the Roll04:11- Background and Role of Chris07:26- Formation of Loop Alien09:55- Loop Alien's Products and Mission19:14- Loop Alien's Design Process23:55- Importance of Flatware in Loop Alien's Designs27:25- Materials Used in Loop Alien's Hardware31:07- The Cord Winder and Other Loop Alien Products36:01- The Guideline Tensioner (GLT)40:15- The Importance of Finishing in Loop Alien's Hardware44:04- The Choice of Aluminum and Titanium in Loop Alien's Hardware50:48- Customization and Material Properties in Composites53:06- Limitations of 3D Printing for Load Critical Applications54:25- Benefits of 3D Printing for Prototyping and Tinkering55:54- Examples of 3D Printed Outdoor Gear57:48- The Potential of 3D Printing and RBTR Fabrics59:47- Innovative Uses of Magnets in 3D Printing01:01:39- The Future of Outdoor Hardware and Problem Solving01:03:06- The Role of 3D Printing in Democratizing Manufacturing01:04:57- Recommended Resources for 3D Printing and Materials01:06:20- Favorite Filament for 3D Printing01:07:38- Target Demographic for Loop Alien Products01:09:06- The Beginner Version of the Target DemographicFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

In the backcountry, your insulation pieces are your lifeline. It's important to select them intentionally and care for them carefully so you can use them freely. In this episode, we talk with down expert, Chad Houghton from UGQ about how to care for your down products and how they fill their quilts in the shop. UGQ ShopUGQ QuillowUGQ InstagramUGQ YouTubeUGQ TikTokTakeawaysUGQ Outdoor Equipment has recently undergone changes, with Chad Houghton taking over as the new owner.Chad's go-to backpacking trip is North Manitou Island in Michigan, and his favorite gear includes a hammock from Dream Hammock.UGQ's latest product is the Quillow, which combines a blanket, pillow, quilt, and liner into one versatile item.Chad recommends hand washing and air drying down products and emphasizes the importance of conservative temperature ratings.Chapters00:00- Introduction and UGQ Overview01:35- Excitement of Taking Over a Cottage Company03:03- Favorite Backpacking Trip and Gear05:01- Go-To Backpack06:16- Funny Story of Working with Down08:14- Dealing with Down Clinging and Cleaning10:25- Introduction to the Quillow15:06- Quilt Production Process18:13- Duck vs Goose Down20:30- Conservative Temperature Ratings23:28- Fabric with Best Balance of Weight and Durability29:17- Missing Fabric in the Market34:30- Missing Insulation in the Market39:02- Principles of Down Care40:55- Importance of Down Care42:30- Natural vs Synthetic Insulation45:19- Fabric Care for Down Products46:37- Recommended Down Wash48:53- UGQ Outdoor Links and Podcast51:57- This or That GameFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

SummaryDan Gerken, the founder of ANDA, shares his journey of starting a cottage company and his participation in the Embark program. He explains the meaning behind the name ANDA and the challenges of working with different fabrics. Dan also discusses the importance of justifying the cost of eco-fabrics and the difficulties of running a one-person show. He concludes by sharing his plans for future products and revisions. In this conversation, Dan Gerken discusses his new product ideas, expansion plans, companies and inspirations, favorite non-ANDA gear, missing fabric in the market, and how he got his trail name Hot Pink.Shop  ANDA UltralightFollow ANDA on InstagramTakeawaysStarting a cottage company requires wearing multiple hats and balancing different roles.Working with challenging fabrics, such as silpoly, can be difficult but rewarding.Justifying the cost of eco fabrics is important for customers who value sustainability.Running a cottage company involves challenges in marketing and reaching the target audience.Future product development can involve revisions and improvements on existing designs. Daniel Gerken is working on new product ideas, including a bug bivvy and a single-pole tarp with doors.He plans to expand his product line to include backpacks and hopes to offer customers a lightweight and compact backpacking system.Daniel finds inspiration from companies like ULA, Mountain Laurel Designs, and Yama Mountain Gear.His favorite non-Anda gear is a Patagonia R1 fleece that he has had for over 10 years.Daniel would like to see more eco-friendly fabrics in the market, such as the ultra TNT by Challenge.He got his trail name Hot Pink because he carried a hot pink hairbrush on the Pacific Crest Trail.Chapters00:00- Introduction and Program03:38- Starting Onda and the Embark Program14:09- Meaning Behind the Name ANDA25:48- Working with Challenging Fabrics29:01- Justifying the Cost of Eco Fabrics33:16- Challenges of Running a Cottage Company37:15- Balancing Different Roles in the Business40:34- Future Products and Revisions42:42- New Product Ideas50:07- Companies and Inspirations53:12- Favorite Non-ANDA Gear55:14- Missing Fabric in the Market57:26- Maker GameFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

Good design is what sets great products apart from competitors. The problem is that good design can be hard to come by. In this episode we talk about how you can design your products even better and take your at home creations to market. We're joined by a design expert, fellow MYOGer, and Senior Soft Goods Developer Daniel McKewen. Also, stick around to hear how Daniel's job might be the coolest job for an avid MYOGer. Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

This is not your average award show. This is the Rippies. We debate and select the top products of the year. From fabrics that we released, components we used, and even products we've seen from cottage companies. Stay tuned for the end to play along in our brand new listener game 'Guess the fabric.'Products Mentioned: Ultra 100X1.0 Dyneema Composite FabricPolartec Alpha Direct 4004UL Venom Stretch Mesh ECO 0.66 oz MEMBRANE 10 Taffeta NylonSlim Strap KeeperCottage Company Product of the Year: Tread Lite Gear (UK) - Dyfold WalletSuluk46 Silky Saw (prototype)Rowdyalls Hermitic Gear denim packDD Hammock Bikepacker Tent Episode Timeline: 00:00 Introduction01:01 Favorite Products of the Year05:18 Challenges in Bringing Products Onboard07:09 Pride in Product Development10:23 Products of the Year12:48 Top Materials/Fabrics of the Year26:47 Favorite Component of the Year33:17 Favorite Cottage Product of the Year48:00 Favorite Personal Project of the Year58:00 Guess the Product Game01:15:14 Closing RemarksFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

allmansright does things a little differently than most cottage companies. Where many companies lead with products and dreams, allmansright leads with vision and passion. We talk with allmansright about how they make their vision pay the bills and why they think it's been so successful. We also talk about their approach to new products and about Liv's early MYOG projects. Episode Notes:https://allmansright.com/Follow allmansright on InstagramLiv from allmansright is recording in his sewing studio, so you might hear some sewing background noise :)Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

In this episode, we're going inside the mills where our fabric is made. We sit down with Kyle Baker (CEO at RBTR) about his trip to see where our fabric is made, what machines they use, and why a 7 step process helps us be better makers/designers. Links: 10 Fabric Terms You Need to Know - Blog10 Fabric Terms You Need to Know - Podcast How We Make Fabric - Blog Associated Products: 3.9 oz Venom™ TPU  5.0 oz Dyneema® Composite Fabric  Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

Car camping is awesome but the cost can be prohibitive for many people. Isaac and Jameson talk about projects that they have made, are planning out, or are inspired make for their car camping rigs. Including the best fabrics, materials, and components for this genre. Projects: Jameson: Window covers Awning Door matRoof Straps Isaac: Truck bed drawer systemUnder-seat storage bagsCast-iron griddle coverTailgate bike coverBest Fabrics/Materials: Jameson: Not about weight it’s about packability You don’t have to go UL, but be cognizantX-Pac RX Line, Silpoly, MONOLITE, 1.9 PU Ripstop Isaac: Cordura, UVX40, CSM PolyThink about the sun exposure Poly fabrics will have better UV resistance Non-fabric resources:Jameson: Magnets CAMP Carabiners, mini carabinersAustere Buckles Wooden dowels Isaac:Suction cup hooks/mountsRivnutsFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

DIY pros Matt and Francesca share their secrets to help make you a better DIYer. These tips could be tools that are a must have, philosophies you need to share, or tips that have saved us time. Guests: Francesca Hall - Maker Extraordinaire @madeby_francescaMatt Evans from Red Paw Packs@redpawpacksredpawpacks.comShow Notes:Fiber Optic ScissorsSeam Ripper Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

Whether you're making or buying a framed pack, it's important to understand how that frame works and what type you might want. In this episode, we talk about the different frame types that are out there and how you can make them yourself. Or know what to look for from a pre-made product. Our guest today is a good friend of the show, Brandon McIntyre. As co-founder of Superior Wilderness Designs, Brandon has a lot of experience sourcing, shaping, and using pack frames. Buy pre-shaped stays:https://www.ula-equipment.com/product/circuit-aluminum-stay/https://sockdolagerequipment.com/products/ultralight-frame-stays-custom?variant=44916036895025https://www.virgapacking.com/backpacks/p/7075-t6-flatbar-aluminum-pack-staysBuy the Materials1/4" Aluminum Round RodHolstex Therform SheetMcMaster-CarrOnline MetalsSomeone who shares good insight:https://www.stitchbackgear.com/articles/frame-sheet-with-stayFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

There are a lot of words in the fabric business. If you don't know the lingo, it can be really frustrating, especially when you're just starting out. That's why we've put together a list of the top ten fabric terms that you need to know.In this episode, Carter and Jameson will run you through the definitions, acronyms, common mistakes, and uses for each of the 10 terms. BlogRead the blog hereThe music on this episode was written and produced by Elæneus. Hear more from them here on IG @elaeneus. Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

Chances are that you want to make apparel. And we want to help you get there. In this episode, we sit down with two prolific makers who help simplify the fear and figure out where to start. Francesca Hall and Delaney Dangerfield are experienced makers who also teach sewing lessons at Delaney's shop. Their expertise, camaraderie, charisma, and personalities make for a fun episode that is also extremely informational.**Sewing Machine Giveaway Starts Monday, SEPTEMBER 18th.  Listen to hear about: Machine tipsTools for apparel Sewing techniques Fabrics What to start withRecommendations Links:Follow Delaney on Instagram @her.two.handsSalt Lake Sewciety for Fabric, Patterns, and ClassesFollow Francesca on Instagram @madeby_francescaHelen's Closet PatternsThread TheoryInkscapeRoad Trip Pattern Co.Pattern AdventureThe music on this episode was written and produced by Elæneus. Hear more from them here on IG @elaeneus. Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

The majority of MYOG is making new items. And don't get us wrong, they're awesome! But that means we possess a skill that we may not even realize. By knowing how to sew, we can also REPAIR gear. In this episode, we talk with Claire Beaumont. An accomplished seamstress who has made it her job to professionally repair items. Having sewn with big companies like Filson, Patagonia, and more, she has a wealth of knowledge and stories to share. We get some tips and tricks on how to help your gear last longer, what to carry in a field repair kit, and how to design items to stand the test of time. Show Links@Foreverywear on InstagramForeverywear WebsiteGet a Repair Quote from ForeverywearFix Yourself Youtube TutorialsJeans Repair GOEMONRemainders Creative Reuse The music on this episode was written and produced by Elæneus. Hear more from them here on IG @elaeneus. Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

In this episode, we do a deep dive with Samson Rope. They are the designers and manufacturers behind popular MYOG items AmSteel®, Zing-It, and Lash-It. We wanted to get an inside look at one of the most historic rope companies in the US and understand more about how they do things. Rope and cord is everywhere. From construction sites to campsites, MLB parks and play parks, your families yard to the shipyard, and everywhere in between. Learning more about cords/ropes in this episode will give you a better awareness and appreciation for the important role that Samson has for recreation, exploration, and safety. This episode has been revamped. First released in March 2021 as Ep. 18.  Follow Samson Rope on InstagramSamson ProductsAmSteel®AmSteel®- Full SpoolsZing-it/Lash-ItZing-it/Lash-It - 180 ft Mini-SpoolsZing-it/Lash-It - Full SpoolsAmSteel® Continuous LoopAmSteel® Whoopie SlingFind Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com

OutdoorINK is a specially designed printing process that enables us to print on over 30 technical fabrics. This means your pack, quilt, tarp, or any other project can have limitless colors, patterns, and designs. In this episode, we talk with one of the brains behind the whole process, Justin Oliveri.  We'll pick his brain on how we did this and get some tips on how you can get the most out of your print. Highlights: Nylon vs Polyester printingRGB Color MapCustom Artwork and RBTR Prints Tech TipsShow Links: File Requirements ArticleInk Penetration ArticlePrinting on Dyneema ArticleUV Resistance on Printed FabricsAll OutdoorINK Help Desk Articles Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.ripstopbytheroll.com