I’m about to embark on my first pack build, which is the biggest sewing project I’ve undertaken so far. My goal is to try the Vincent Koender’s design as a first go, with a prototype initially made out of Tyvek because it’s relatively inexpensive. I then plan on making a second prototype modifying it based on how that goes and making some changes that I want. Finally, I want to make the finished product out of X-Pac. This is going to be a huge learning experience for me, rewarding and frustrating.
One of my concerns is about durability of the pack, with it completely falling apart as stitching just rips out. I’ve had this happen on some other projects due to flaws in the sewing strategy or general sewing quality.
I’m curious, what are people’s advice on this? Anyone learn any lessons from making their packs? So far, people have advised me to use an X box stitch on any straps that would experience high loads and to double stitch any seams in the main body, either by doing some sort of flat fell or adding binding tape. I’ve looked at my commercial grade packs, and most of them seem to use some sort of finishing tape. My ULA Catalyst uses it in other places such as the hipbelt.
With the latter, I have no idea exactly what to use, whether it should be the sticky type or using a presser foot and ironing and folding (I think I’m not skilled enough to do it by hand).
