MYOG: Necessity + Skill + Customization = Happy Camping
The Stuff Sack
Welcome to the world of Make Your Own Gear (MYOG). Why MYOG? Cost, customization, simplification, aesthetics, innovation…you get what you want and the satisfaction of creating something useful and all your own. A stuff sack is an easy project for a beginner. Basically it’s a rectangle with 2 seams and a way to cinch the top closed.
Materials
Fabric – ripstop style (silnylon, nylon, silpoly, Dyneema), laminated ripstop, or any fabric
Online: https://ripstopbytheroll.com/ https://www.rockywoods.com/
Local: JoAnn’s
Shockcord or paracord/nanocord/microcord OR webbing/grosgrain and buckles
Polyester thread
Sharp needles (Microtex)
Seam sealant (Seam Grip sealant) or Tape (PET Seam Seal or UltraTNT PSA)
Method
- Measure finished size of desired stuff sack. Double and add 1” to the width and 2” to the height. Example:
|
|
Finished Measurement |
Seam Allowance |
Cut 1 fabric |
|
Height |
11” |
2” |
11 + 2 = 13” |
|
Width |
8” |
1” |
(8 x2) + 1 = 17” |
- Cut a rectangle out of your fabric.
- Fold in half width-wise to make a tube and sew ½” seam. Lap seam or French seam is preferred. Finish your cut edges.
- Fold so the seam you just made is in the center and sew across the bottom of the sack.
- Make a casing and run paracord or shockcord through bag and cord lock OR fold down and sew grosgrain or webbing to top with mini buckles at sides to secure after rolling down sack top.
- If desired, use seam sealant or seam tape to finish edges.
