Send us a text In this episode, we’re separating fact from fiction in the world of technical fabrics and MYOG. We debate 10 true or false statements about technical fabrics, covering topics like seam strength, water leakage, ripstop grids and more. Expect a playful and opinionated conversation that is sure entertain and maybe shock you. Guest: Matt Evans from Red Paw Packs Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Send us a text It’s draft day at Ripstop on the Record! In this episode, we sit down with Francesca Hall and Ryan Campbell for the very first Fabric Draft. Each person builds a six-category roster of technical fabrics, covering packs, bags, quilts/sleeping systems, shelters, apparel, and mesh in a snake-style draft. Which fabrics made the cut? Which powerhouse materials were left on the table? And who built the strongest lineup? From classics like 1000D Cordura® and Silpoly XL to cutting-edge...

Send us a text Becoming a designer is like being a painter. You have to master the fundamentals while developing a style that’s unmistakably yours. In this episode, we sit down with legendary designer Dan Matsuda to explore how he’s honed his craft, built a distinct design philosophy, and what young designers can do to create original work in a world full of remakes. Sample Matsuda TAD Lightspeed TAD Parallax Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Send us a text In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on our recent trip overseas to meet with production partners—from one-man shops to sprawling 800,000-square-foot mills. We share behind-the-scenes stories, cultural mishaps, and our biggest takeaways from seeing the process up close. You’ll learn why fabric design is more like chess than checkers, how global trade and mill specialization impact what shows up on Ripstop by the Roll’s shelves, and answers to your most pressing custo...

Send us a text If you’ve ever felt like sewing projects take twice as long as they should, this episode is your shortcut to speed and sanity. Matt and Jameson break down their best tips. From patterns to set-up to tools that will help you sew smarter, avoid mistakes, and finally feel like you’re in control of the clock instead of racing against it. Guest: Matt EvansRed Paw Packs@Red Paw Packs New Products: Velcro - Hook and Loop Stainless Steel Thread Snips Venom™ S...

Send us a text Creative freedom is amazing but it can feel lonely not knowing where to turn. After all, there's no MYOG/design guidebook. From time-saving techniques to elite finishing touches, these tips will make every project faster, cleaner, and more professional. We're joined by good friend of the podcast, Matt Evans from Red Paw Packs to unpack and debate the skills and techniques we think are REQUIRED to become a skilled maker/designer. Do you have these skills or can you think of othe...

Send us a text In this episode, Nash Calvin gives us an inside look at how Hyperlite designs, refines, tests, and produces their products. Although known for their UL simplicity, there is still a lot that goes into each product. You'll even get to hear about what benefits international manufacturing has on the customer. Hyperlite Mountain Gear CrossPeak2 Hyperlite Mountain Gear x Dyneema®Woven Composites Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Send us a text In this episode, Owen Forbes of ULA Equipment breaks down their full design-to-production process and explains the real-world advantages of keeping manufacturing in-house. You’ll learn how domestic production impacts prototyping speed, product quality, and design flexibility. Plus, what it really takes to run a sewn goods operation without outsourcing. Guest: Owen Forbes - Product Designer at ULA ULA Website ULA Products Mentioned: Circuit Circuit SV Cus...

Send us a text Do you know what makes a sewing pattern great? We're not talking about being just usable, but functional, inclusive, and built to last. In this episode, we sit down with Ellie Rivkin of Road Trip Pattern Co to unpack her approach to designing technical apparel patterns, from inspiration and tools to testing and fit. Ellie has an impressive resume with companies like Gap, Wooland, Northwest Alpine, and now Columbia Sportswear all on her portfolio. We're not even here to ta...

Send us a text In this episode Carter and Jameson pull back the curtain on fanny pack features. This isn’t advice from the sidelines. It’s hands-on insight from makers who know their way around patterns, materials, and how to build gear for every-day maker. Whether you're trying to choose the panel design, dial in your seam finishing, or avoid features that sound cool but flop in real life, we’ve got you covered. Show Links: Reflective MeshCenter Push Magic Buckle210D Venom™ Gridstop&...

Send us a text In this episode, Dan Durston opens up his gear design playbook — sharing the principles, philosophies, and materials that guide his top-rated products. From the drama behind the X-Dome tent to bold opinions on fabrics like Challenge TNT, Dan doesn’t hold back. If you care about thoughtful design, innovative materials, and what it takes to build gear that actually works, this one’s a must-listen. Links: Durston GearEpisode 45 Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRol...

Send us a text After analyzing thousands of products, we've been able to identify common construction mistakes that are plaguing makers everywhere. We highlight the top 10 problems that can serious impact the durability, longevity, and quality of your products. Listen to this episode to save yourself the headaches that MYOGers before have endured. Episode Links: Scissor Magnets Magnetic Seam GuideEp. 106 with Dan McKewenDyneema® Repair Tape MIL-SPEC Nylon Grosgrain Ribbo...

Send us a text You know that moment when someone looks at your MYOG project and says, “I can tell”? Ryan Campbell of The Wandering Goat is sharing 7 tips to make your gear look and feel professional—like it came straight from a factory floor, not your garage. We sit down with Ryan Campbell, a small-batch bag maker known for highly customized, thoughtfully crafted gear. From bright-eyed beginner to shipping bespoke pieces to international clients, Ryan’s been through the full arc of the MYOG j...

Send us a text Projector sewing is one of the fastest growing trends in the sewing world. In this episode, we break down what projector sewing is, how it works, and why it's gaining popularity in both home sewing and DIY gear-making. From gear recommendations and setup tips to pattern formats and software options, we’re covering everything you need to know to get started. Plus, Francesca shares her own journey into projector sewing, the challenges she faced early on, and the favorite projects...

Send us a text Is making your own gear actually saving you money? According to our math, DIYers can sometimes save up to 200%—but we've also seen folks drop $300 on a project they could’ve bought for $250. In this episode, we break down the three tiers of MYOG, what drives costs in each, and what makers are really spending when they go the DIY route. Products Mentioned: Kits/Patterns: ZPPTarp WalletBear Bag Kit with Dyneema® Composite FabricAlpha Raglan HoodieDias ShortsFabr...

Send us a text Data sheets help give quantitative data on how a fabric performs. This data is invaluable but can be confusing if you don't know what you're looking at. That's why we did this episode. Maddie Wilson from NC State's College of Textiles helps us understand how each test is performed and what the test value really means. Show Links: Here is an example of a data sheet. You can find data sheets in the photo carousel of most product pages. NC State Wilson Coll...

Send us a text We feature as the guest on this "ask us anything" style of episode. Listen to hear us talk about fabric application, sewing tips, business changes, and other things that makers have requested to know. Product Links: Schmetz Universal Machine NeedlesSchmetz Sharp/Microtex Machine NeedlesGutermann MARA 70Gutermann MARA 50210 Venom™ Gridstop ECOFind Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Send us a text If you ask Chat GPT what the 5 keys to a great bikebag are, you'll get a good list. But it may not be vetted from professional bike bag makers like our list is in this episode. We talk with Lane and Steph from Oveja Negra. The so called, Black Sheep, of the bikebag work will surprise you in their keys to the bags that carry us on our two-wheeled adventures. https://www.ovejanegrabikepacking.com Find Us on Social Media 🚀 @RipstopbytheRoll www.ripstopbytheroll.com

Send us a text Whether you're a DIYer or a small business owner, choosing the right machine can be overwhelming—and buying the wrong one can cost you time, money, and frustration. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know, from researching machine types and trusted brands to spotting red flags in listings and inspecting a machine before you buy. Maker Meet Up: https://form.typeform.com/to/lH0FEfYJ Apply for the 2025 Maker Sponsorship: https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pages/make...

Send us a textThere are DIY gems hiding all around us. From building precision patterns to upcycling materials - we're sharing creative ways to prototype, reinforce, and customize gear so you can optimize your projects. Listen to get inspired, think outside the box, and elevate your gear-making game. If you want to check out links for the products that are mentioned and read the blog associated with this episode, check that out here. Find Us on Social Media 🚀@RipstopbytheRollwww.rip...