Summary
Kjell Lindgren recounts his journey into DIY gear-making, sparked by frustrations from his Boy Scout days and basic sewing skills acquired in elementary school. His DIY mindset was solidified during space station training, empowering him to craft gear for his sons' scouting trips. As a NASA astronaut, Kjell's maker mindset proves invaluable, enabling him to solve problems and repair equipment in space. Insights into life aboard the space station, challenges of confined living, water recycling, and spacesuit details are shared.

Takeaways

• Kjell's interest in sewing and making his own gear started from his time as a Boy Scout and his frustration with waiting for someone else to put patches on his uniforms.
• His DIY mindset was further influenced by his space station training, where he learned to fix things himself and became empowered to take on DIY projects.
• Spacesuits require intricate sewing skills, and the first spacesuits were made by companies that specialized in women's clothing.
• Materials used in space are often tough, light, and have antimicrobial properties.
• Kjell has used his DIY skills to create personalized items for himself and his crewmates, such as drink bag insulators.

Chapters
00:00- Introduction and Background
08:56- The Maker Mindset in Space
16:06- Challenges of Living on the Space Station
32:58- Spacesuit Creation and Sewing Skills
48:29- Gaining Perspective from Space
56:46- The Need for Affordable and Durable Fabrics

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Join us as we chat with Jameson Collins, the brains behind Houda Trail, a custom outdoor gear brand. Get ready for an inside look into Jameson's journey from gear enthusiast to gear maker extraordinaire. They dive deep into the world of outdoor apparel, geeking out over the wonders of Alpha Direct fabric and the joy of tailoring gear to fit just right. Jameson spills the beans on his sewing secrets with Alpha Direct, sharing handy tips and tricks for making the most out of this high-tech fabric. But that's not all! Jameson lets us in on his adventures with Outdoor Ink and Polartec's Alpha Direct fabric, revealing the magic behind bringing designs to life. From brainstorming to final print, they cover it all, including pro tips for achieving top-notch results.


Takeaways

• Polartec® Alpha Direct 4004 is now available for custom printing with OutdoorINK!
• Alpha Direct fabric is highly versatile and ideal for active outdoor activities with start-stop elements.
• Customization is a key aspect of Houda Trail's business, allowing customers to personalize the fit and design of their outdoor apparel.
• Houda Trail offers unique prints and designs, adding a fun and personalized touch to their custom apparel. OutdoorINK on Polartec® Alpha Direct fabric is a game changer for custom apparel making.
• Taking accurate measurements of the chest, waist, hips, and desired garment length is crucial for achieving a customized fit.
• Follow @HoudaTrail on Instagram

Chapters
00:00- Introduction and Gear Making Journey
06:09- Customizing Outdoor Apparel with Houda Trail
14:39- The Versatility of Alpha Direct Fabric
25:20- Tips for Sewing with Alpha Direct
30:19- Achieving a Custom Fit with Houda Trail
34:57- Adding a Personalized Touch with Unique Prints
38:01- The Importance of Customization in Outdoor Clothing
33:09- Custom Printing and Design Process
35:03- Tips for Printing on Alpha Direct
37:31- The Unique Look and Detail of Alpha Direct
45:31- Printing Solid Colors and Color Blocked Fleeces
52:35- Poalrtec® Trivia

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Summary
Join us in this episode as women in the MYOG community share their journey, tackling stereotypes and biases head-on. From challenging assumptions to promoting inclusivity, they delve into the unique hurdles faced by women in the outdoor industry. Discover the importance of representation in design, overcoming fit challenges, and supporting women-owned brands. Explore strategies for making outdoor gear accessible to all, pricing ethical products, and building a sustainable future through reducing, reusing, and recycling. With a focus on mentorship, collaboration, and driving positive change, this conversation inspires action and solidarity among women in the outdoors. Tune in for insights, excitement about upcoming projects, and a call for continued support in the journey towards a more inclusive outdoor community.

Takeaways

• Inclusivity and representation are crucial in outdoor spaces and the design of outdoor gear.
• Seeking advice and feedback from women is essential to create gear that fits and meets their needs.
• Making outdoor gear more accessible requires addressing socioeconomic barriers and finding innovative solutions.
• Creative collaborations can lead to innovative and impactful outcomes.
• Embracing a small business, big mindset approach can drive positive change.
• 3.4 oz Nylon Taslan/Supplex
• Woman-owned Companies Directory
• A HUGE Thank You to our guests
  • Amy - MODOKOT
  • Emme - Articles in Common
  • Julianne - Wild Brush
  • Kelsey - KEL Tech Gear

Chapters
00:00- Introduction
01:14- Inspiration to Get into MYOG
25:22- Creating Inclusive Spaces
28:58- Lack of Inclusivity in Outdoor Spaces
29:45- Importance of Representation in Design
30:39- Seeking Advice and Feedback from Women
31:18- Challenges with Fit and Sizing
36:31- Promoting Women-Owned Brands
39:37- The Importance of Visibility and Representation
42:53- Changes in Outdoor Gear Design
50:25- Making Outdoor Gear More Accessible
53:40- Addressing Socioeconomic Barriers
01:01:28- Balancing Cost and Sustainability
01:07:01- Challenges of Pricing Ethical Gear
01:11:08- Thinking Big and Building Community
01:12:04- Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle
01:13:02- Taking Small Steps to Make a Difference
01:13:30- The Importance of Mentorship and Collaboration
01:18:33- Collaboration and Creativity in the Outdoor Community
01:21:29- Celebrating Women and Collaboration
01:23:11- Exciting Projects and Collaboration
01:28:52- The Importance of Individual Actions
01:29:52- Small Business, Big Mindset

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Summary
In this conversation, Chase from Utah State University discusses the Outdoor Product Design and Development Program. The program offers a unique curriculum that focuses on designing and developing outdoor products. Students have the opportunity to specialize in different areas such as performance apparel, soft goods accessories, or equipment. The program cultivates a maker's mindset by encouraging curiosity and creativity. The curriculum includes classes on sketching, digital design, prototyping, and more. The program also addresses sustainability and incorporates sustainable practices into the curriculum. In this conversation, Chase shares insights about senior projects and standout projects from students, the final show and exhibit, the cost of tuition, job placements, the impact of the program on gear, the Outdoor Recreation Archive, and the Highlander Podcast.

Takeaways

• The senior projects and standout projects from students showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills.
• The final show and exhibit provide an opportunity for the public to see the students' work and for companies to find new talent.
• Job placements for graduates of the program are diverse, with opportunities in both outdoor and non-outdoor industries.
• The Outdoor Recreation Archive is a valuable resource for exploring the history of outdoor gear and brands.
• The Highlander Podcast features conversations with gear pioneers and provides insights into the outdoor industry.
• Books mentioned: Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things, The Design Of Everyday Things: Norman, Don Norman , Design for a Better World: Meaningful, Sustainable, Humanity Centered, Don Norman, The Future of the Responsible Company: What We've Learned from Patagonia's First 50 Years
• 2024 Senior Exhibit
• Outdoor Recreation Archive Online File Search

USU Outdoor Product Design and Development
Follow @usuoutdoorproduct on Instagram
Follow @OutdoorRecArchive on Instagram
Highlander Podcast


Chapters
00:00- Introduction and Background
02:27- Overview of the Outdoor Product Design and Development Program
06:09- Cultivating a Maker's Mindset
11:22- Curriculum and Classes
22:36- Staying Ahead of the Curve
31:05- Addressing Sustainability
36:08- Recommended Books
39:15- Senior Projects and Standout Projects
42:29- Final Show and Exhibit
44:11- Cost of Tuition
46:36- Job Placements
52:03- Impact of the Program on Gear
54:28- Outdoor Recreation Archi

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Summary
Several years ago, you could point to any cottage company and they would likely have several products made out of X-Pac®. Nowadays, it seems like X-Pac® is less used than ever before. In this episode, we talk about why that is and why we feel like its decrease in market share is making it one of the most underrated materials to makers and cottage companies. Plus, we talk about their new X-Pac® Ultra-PE UL pack material.

Takeaways

• X-Pac® has experienced a decrease in prominence due to the emergence of new materials and shiny object syndrome.
• X-Pac® offers high waterproofness and durability, making it suitable for applications such as packs, bags, and outdoor gear. X-Pac® has a high hydrostatic head rating, making it very waterproof.
• X-Pac® has good abrasion resistance and lamination techniques and has a long history of experience in the field.
• X-Pac® is climate-neutral in its production, offsetting emissions from various sources.
• X-Pac® offers a wide range of printing options through the Outdoor Ink program.
• When working with X-Pac®, it is recommended to store it on a roll to prevent creasing, use a sharp needle and longer stitch length, and consider binding or taping for finishing.
• X-Pac's Project 85 is a new material in development that offers a lighter-weight option.
• The hosts play a game called 'Make, Stash, or Trash', where they choose which materials to use for different projects.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction

01:13- What Happened to X-Pac®?

05:32- Decrease in Usage of X-Pac®

07:26- Quality of X-Pac®

10:22- Cottage Companies and X-Pac®

11:40- DIYers and X-Pac®

23:41- Applications of X-Pac®

26:58- Examples of Projects with X-Pac®

30:09- LiteSkin® Line

34:18- Applications of X-Pac®

40:35- Pros of X-Pac®

46:01- Hydrostatic Head and TEP Abrasion Resistance

49:53- Lamination and Environmental Focus

54:07- X-Pac® Climate Neutrality

58:46- OutdoorINK Printing Options with X-Pac®

01:03:26- Tips for Working with X-Pac®

01:07:34- Why Choose X-Pac® and Other Materials

01:11:38- X-Pac® Project 85

01:13:59- Make, Stash, or Trash Game

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Summary

Embark on an outdoor odyssey with Chris, co-founder of Loop Alien, as he unravels the company's evolution. Loop Alien, a hardware marvel within the Ripstop by the Roll family, crafts tools and kits, transforming hammock setups and tarp rigging into a breeze. Chris delves into the early Ripstop days, his role in the company, and the intricate design process behind Loop Alien's game-changing products, featuring materials like aluminum and titanium. This podcast journey navigates through the customization and material properties of composites, cautioning on 3D printing limitations for load-critical applications. Chris envisions a future merging 3D printing with RBTR fabrics, exploring innovative uses of magnets and the exciting prospects of outdoor hardware. Calling all outdoor enthusiasts – tune in for Chris's insights, where gadgets meet the great outdoors!

https://loopalien.com/
Instagram: @LoopAlien

Takeaways

• Loop Alien is a hardware company that provides tools and kits to make outdoor activities easier and more accessible.
• The design process for Loop Alien's products involves careful consideration of functionality, finishing, and material choice.
• Loop Alien's focus on flatware design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and efficient use of materials.
• While 3D printing is becoming more accessible, it is important to be cautious when using 3D printed items for load critical applications.
• The combination of 3D printing and RBTR fabrics offers opportunities for customization and innovation in outdoor gear.
• The future of outdoor hardware lies in solving problems and addressing pain points, with an emphasis on user-driven innovation.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction and Background

02:13- Early Days of Ripstop by the Roll

04:11- Background and Role of Chris

07:26- Formation of Loop Alien

09:55- Loop Alien's Products and Mission

19:14- Loop Alien's Design Process

23:55- Importance of Flatware in Loop Alien's Designs

27:25- Materials Used in Loop Alien's Hardware

31:07- The Cord Winder and Other Loop Alien Products

36:01- The Guideline Tensioner (GLT)

40:15- The Importance of Finishing in Loop Alien's Hardware

44:04- The Choice of Aluminum and Titanium in Loop Alien's Hardware

50:48- Customization and Material Properties in Composites

53:06- Limitations of 3D Printing for Load Critical Applications

54:25- Benefits of 3D Printing for Prototyping and Tinkering

55:54- Examples of 3D Printed Outdoor Gear

57:48- The Potential of 3D Printing and RBTR Fabrics

59:47- Innovative Uses of Magnets in 3D Printing

01:01:39- The Future of Outdoor Hardware and Problem Solving

01:03:06- The Role of 3D Printing in Democratizing Manufacturing

01:04:57- Recommended Resources for 3D Printing and Materials

01:06:20- Favorite Filament for 3D Printing

01:07:38- Target Demographic for Loop Alien Products

01:09:06- The Beginner Version of the Target Demographic

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

In the backcountry, your insulation pieces are your lifeline. It's important to select them intentionally and care for them carefully so you can use them freely. In this episode, we talk with down expert, Chad Houghton from UGQ about how to care for your down products and how they fill their quilts in the shop.

UGQ Shop
UGQ Quillow

UGQ Instagram
UGQ YouTube
UGQ TikTok

Takeaways

• UGQ Outdoor Equipment has recently undergone changes, with Chad Houghton taking over as the new owner.
• Chad's go-to backpacking trip is North Manitou Island in Michigan, and his favorite gear includes a hammock from Dream Hammock.
• UGQ's latest product is the Quillow, which combines a blanket, pillow, quilt, and liner into one versatile item.
• Chad recommends hand washing and air drying down products and emphasizes the importance of conservative temperature ratings.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction and UGQ Overview

01:35- Excitement of Taking Over a Cottage Company

03:03- Favorite Backpacking Trip and Gear

05:01- Go-To Backpack

06:16- Funny Story of Working with Down

08:14- Dealing with Down Clinging and Cleaning

10:25- Introduction to the Quillow

15:06- Quilt Production Process

18:13- Duck vs Goose Down

20:30- Conservative Temperature Ratings

23:28- Fabric with Best Balance of Weight and Durability

29:17- Missing Fabric in the Market

34:30- Missing Insulation in the Market

39:02- Principles of Down Care

40:55- Importance of Down Care

42:30- Natural vs Synthetic Insulation

45:19- Fabric Care for Down Products

46:37- Recommended Down Wash

48:53- UGQ Outdoor Links and Podcast

51:57- This or That Game

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Summary

Dan Gerken, the founder of ANDA, shares his journey of starting a cottage company and his participation in the Embark program. He explains the meaning behind the name ANDA and the challenges of working with different fabrics. Dan also discusses the importance of justifying the cost of eco-fabrics and the difficulties of running a one-person show. He concludes by sharing his plans for future products and revisions. In this conversation, Dan Gerken discusses his new product ideas, expansion plans, companies and inspirations, favorite non-ANDA gear, missing fabric in the market, and how he got his trail name Hot Pink.

Shop ANDA Ultralight
Follow ANDA on Instagram

Takeaways

• Starting a cottage company requires wearing multiple hats and balancing different roles.
• Working with challenging fabrics, such as silpoly, can be difficult but rewarding.
• Justifying the cost of eco fabrics is important for customers who value sustainability.
• Running a cottage company involves challenges in marketing and reaching the target audience.
• Future product development can involve revisions and improvements on existing designs. Daniel Gerken is working on new product ideas, including a bug bivvy and a single-pole tarp with doors.
• He plans to expand his product line to include backpacks and hopes to offer customers a lightweight and compact backpacking system.
• Daniel finds inspiration from companies like ULA, Mountain Laurel Designs, and Yama Mountain Gear.
• His favorite non-Anda gear is a Patagonia R1 fleece that he has had for over 10 years.
• Daniel would like to see more eco-friendly fabrics in the market, such as the ultra TNT by Challenge.
• He got his trail name Hot Pink because he carried a hot pink hairbrush on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction and Program

03:38- Starting Onda and the Embark Program

14:09- Meaning Behind the Name ANDA

25:48- Working with Challenging Fabrics

29:01- Justifying the Cost of Eco Fabrics

33:16- Challenges of Running a Cottage Company

37:15- Balancing Different Roles in the Business

40:34- Future Products and Revisions

42:42- New Product Ideas

50:07- Companies and Inspirations

53:12- Favorite Non-ANDA Gear

55:14- Missing Fabric in the Market

57:26- Maker Game

Find Us on Social Media 🚀
@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com