Reference Resource Index

This thread is an index to reference information relevant to MYOG (Make Your Own Gear).

Please contribute.

Related discussion can be found in the Reference Resource Companion thread here: https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/reference-resource-companion/

If you are JUST READING:

• Consider searching this thread by keyword
• You can search all pages of this thread via Google by putting the following string in front of your key words, “site:backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/reference-resource-index/ “
• If you have found a resource here, consider searching the Reference Resource Companion thread for the post ID of your resource to see what folks are saying about it.

If you WANT TO POST:

1. Don’t post *anything* if it’s not a link.
2. Use the ENTRY FORMAT below.
3. One link per post.  This facilitates direct reference by post ID in other discussion.
4. See 1. above.

Please direct all non-link posts to the Reference Resource Companion thread.

Examples of appropriate linked content might include: an insulation performance table; a fabric properties table; quilt or shelter patterns; how-to guides.

If you have knowledge to share that’s not already published, write it up and post the link!  Google Docs, a blog post, a .pdf on Drop Box, you could even publish in a new BPL thread.  Just be sure your link will be good for years to come, and update it if you have to move the doc.

ENTRY FORMAT:

<Link Title> (a very concise description, easy to scan visually)

<Link>

<Description – include search key words>

EXAMPLE ENTRY:

Zpacks Down Loft Chart

http://www.zpacks.com/quilts/down_loft.shtml

Simple chart listing temperature ratings for down loft height.  Good for quilts and sleeping bags.  Includes design examples and notes on over stuffing / over fill.

This is an attempt to solve the problem of digging through endless commentary to find that one nugget of fact you need to move your project forward.  Let’s make this the clean, concise reference we’ve all been searching for.

Future us thanks you!

.

Zpacks Down Loft Chart

http://www.zpacks.com/quilts/down_loft.shtml

Simple chart listing temperature ratings for down loft height.  Good for quilts and sleeping bags.  Includes design examples and notes on over stuffing / over fill.

Hummingbird Hammock Patterns

https://github.com/HummingbirdHammocks

Open source repository of hammock related designs: hammocks, tarps, bug nets, etc.  Available in various file formats.  From https://hummingbirdhammocks.com/

Stake Holding Force Study

https://backpackinglight.com/tent_stakes/

BPL article reviewing a study of the holding force of various common stakes in different soil types.

Quilt / Sleeping Bag Design Guide

https://backpackinglight.com/myog_down_quilt_bag/

BPL article providing design guidance for making a quilt or sleeping bag.  Focus is on down with details about baffles.

Enlightened Equipment Climashield Apex Insulation Chart

https://support.enlightenedequipment.com/hc/en-us/articles/115003405328-Enigma-APEX

Temperature rating reference for Climashield Apex insulation as used in quilts.  Charts also include sizing information.  Temperature ratings are reputed to be slightly conservative (you might be able to go a bit colder).

Knots and Guy Lines Tutorial by Andrew Skurka

https://andrewskurka.com/2016/guyline-tension-system-backpacking-tents-tarps-hammocks/

Video and photo instruction for the knot and tension system used by Andrew Skurka on all his shelters.  Good for tents and tarps.

Montane Fabric Properties Chart

https://drms3v40st3o6.cloudfront.net/images/pdf/especificaciones/eng_montane_specs_clothes.pdf

Chart compiled by Montane including many manufacturers.  Data includes attributes such as weight, water handling, breathability, etc.  Does not include price or retailer.

Richard Nisley’s Wind Fabric Chart

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1WTUeFU39h_bXL4vqB9-cKlk3QHZf-TUE3UyGybtpDEY/edit#gid=0

Chart compiled by Richard Nisley including breathability and other properties for ~30 different fabrics. Includes year produced and a few links back to BPL threads.  Seems most relevant to wind shirts.

Spencer A’s MYOG Fabric Wiki

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Qt31xHAuaDAEaki5bNc2rXutDRahNq2iCIlU5D0ryYU/edit#gid=0

Chart compiled by Spencer A covering basic fabric properties including cost and source.  Includes many proprietary fabric from a number of DIY/MYOG suppliers.

Andrew Skurka on VBLs

https://andrewskurka.com/2011/vapor-barrier-liners-theory-application/

An introduction to vapor barrier liners by Andrew Skurka.  Published in 2011, so commercial product reference may no longer be accurate.

BPL intro to sewing straight seams.

https://backpackinglight.com/sewing_primer_straight_and_top_stitch/

“Make Your Own Gear Sewing Primer: Straight Stitch and Top Stitch”  Covers the basics of sewing straight seams.

BPL guide to attaching webbing

https://backpackinglight.com/sewing_primer_reinforcement_stiches/

This article shows how to sew several common stitches for attaching webbing to light fabric, and reports on comparative strength testing.

Richard Nisley’s 2011 HH test results

https://backpackinglight.com/wp-content/uploads/profiles/61490/41c27e251a508f4e37a2e6f413ec3d50.pdf

In 2011, Richard Nisley did a bunch of hydrostatic head (waterproofness) testing of fabric samples submitted by forum members.  The results include a lot of Cuben Fiber (now DCF) fabrics.  Keep in mind fabric availability has changed since the tests were performed.

Original thread here: https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/45026/  Note many of the links are now broken.

BPL guide to making UL tarp, pack and stuff sacks

https://backpackinglight.com/make_your_own_gear_5_yards_to_sul_part_1/

5 part MYOG series with patterns and instructions from sewing ultralight tarp, stuff sacks and frameless backpack.

WHO Water Pasteurization Chart

http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/dwq/Boiling_water_01_15.pdf

World Health Organization chart detailing the temperature and duration required to deactivate common water born pathogens.  Includes commentary on sanitization by boiling.

Great crash course in all things insulation

http://www.adventurepoet.com/adventure/gear-tips/outdoor-gear-insulation-ratings-explained/

This provides an explanation of units used in rating insulation with a little historical background.  It has a segment on down, loft and fill power.  It has a good list of synthetics and their insulating values.

Outstanding Rene

Treasure trove of stove info

http://zenstoves.net/

This site focuses on diy/myog alcohol stoves, but covers commercial products and other fuel types as well.  It has many links to other stove sites covering designs, comparisons and reviews.  So much info is included or linked that it may take some exploring to find what you’re looking for.

Richard Nisley’s 2015 garment insulation chart

https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/101420/#post-2185131

Active insulation garment warmth to weight comparison.  Includes down and synthetic.  Jackets and tops only.

BPL study on condensation and fabrics

https://backpackinglight.com/night_time_condensation_on_tarp_and_tent_fabrics/

Fairly in-depth study of condensation on various fabrics and the effects of surrounding conditions.

Thread should be stickied or whatever folks call it.

Hiking skirt pattern

https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/95864/

Nice write up for a hiking skirt.  Based on commercial pattern (linked) w/ explanation of how to customize size and add pockets.