Pockets/channels for aluminum stays

[John K]

Hi, this is my first post here though I have lurked quite a bit. I am building a backpack that will have two 1/8″ x 1/2″ 7075 aluminum stays.  I am not sure how to install them other than to use webbing sewn on to the panel to form a channel.  How do you implement the structure at the bottom and top so that it durably handles the pressure of the stays?  Actually I think I have a grip on the top part using velcro but what about the bottom? Is it sufficient to just bar tack the end of the webbing (the pack body is VX21) or should the webbing be folded under?  If anyone would be kind enough to share their experience with this aspect of construction I would be most grateful.

[Luke F]

I prefer to fold the end of the webbing when practical, but I do have a few packs that simply terminate in a bartack or seam without too much issue. If only a small amount of webbing is folded over it can be hard to insert the stay into the small pocket, but if you leave the end unstitched you will easily tell if you missed as the stay will pop out.

Between bartacking and ending the webbing in a seam I prefer the latter by far, in entering the seam the webbing usually turns a bit of a corner which means the bulk of the stress is transferred to the webbing rather then into the stitching.

 

[Paul McLaughlin]

I have always folded the webbing over to create a pocket. I would not trust a bar tacked end or ending in a seam, not for the long term. I also usually wrap the ends of my stays with tape for a bit of extra protection

[Author]

Posts