I would still very much like to create various pieces of gear from natural fibers or at least bio-based synthetics. Being new to the game, though, I have absolutely no idea who to talk to or where to look for information or materials. When I bought the 8mm Habotai from Thai Silks for my sleeping bag project (which looks as though it might become a "make my girlfriend a dress" project), they were not really able to give me info on down-proofness. I, um, think I know that the density of the weave could be done to be downproof, but where would I look?
Weight is not my biggest concern; this is mostly an exercise of interest, and I have room to play with a base pack weight in the 10-15 pound range. In other words, I really don't care if the resultant bag weighs another 12 ounces if I can complete it as desired.
So. Who should I talk to, what retailers/wholesalers/manufacturers about fabric availability, types, etc. Bill, I know you've dealt directly with several manufacturers in the past, and Roger, I know you were in that field in some capacity–any feedback? How about from everybody else? With so many MYOG folks, I'd think several of us also do home projects and so forth, too…
Thanks for all your input!!
