MLD Core Side Pockets

[Kodiak Firesmith]

See post 2 for content due to BPL forum bug…

[Kodiak Firesmith]

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Before I bought the core I inquired about paying extra to have side and front pockets added to it.  Ron Bell has a policy that no mods are allowed for the Core “to keep the price competitive”.  I don’t really understand the logic since I wanted to *pay* for the additions but everyone can run their business how they like.

So I gave in and bought a core with the additional shoulder strap water bottle pockets.  When they arrived and I got a close look at them, I was suspicious that they would just flop around and be generally not very useful.  After putting in a few miles with 24oz propel bottles in them I was certain that the MLD strap bottles perform exactly as I expected, so I started sorting out how to add side pockets.

I’m terribly inexperienced with sewing, but what follows are my attempt at a functional side pocket.  I’m pretty happy with the result and will be making a second one for the other side as well as a front mesh pocket for rain gear and misc items, essentially turning this into some sort of micro-Burn w/ no hip belt.

I knew I wanted to only utilize the current attachment points so that the core could be resold when I can either make or have the “ultimate” daypack made.  Here are the attachment points:

First I folded some printer paper to get the general dimensions

Next I turned that into a pattern:

Here’s a close-up of the materials as the pocket starts to take shape:

Finished product:

Terrible but functional stitching:

Holding water:

[Nick B]

Those are real clean! I like that you matched the line of the daisy chain.  Very aesthetically pleasing.

I never understood Ron’s policy regarding customization of the Core either.  It has definitely kept me from purchasing one.  But then I found a 2014 Newt and all is well.

[Pat McDonald]

I’m currently waiting for my Core to arrive in the post. These look great!

[Lisa C]

Nice clean pocket! What type of fabric did you use? I’m looking at making my first backpack and this is a great idea. I like the somewhat see through fabric. It’s not mesh. Thanks for sharing!

[Kodiak Firesmith]

Thanks Lisa, I used Robic XL and stretch Lycra (mid-weight).

I actually ended up just putting it up for sale, btw:  https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/fs-mld-core-28l-w-compression-straps-water-bottle-holders-more-newish-gry/

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