Does anyone have any suggetions for fabric types for stuff sacks. I want to gain a little experience with sewing before diving into a tarp, and i need some new stuff sacks. These sacks would be for clothes and extranious items in the pack.

The reason why i am not using nylon is that it is 6.99 a yard around here so i want to get some practice before ripping up nylon for a pattern.

Any suggestions?

go to walmart fabric dept to the $1 bin. They can not tell you what type material it is but with a little experience you will find stuff that works. It has become an addiction for me. Last week I found some camouflage netting. cool!

Old bedsheet that you have been meaning to throw out.

May I ask, what are you using for a pattern?

Personally, I don't use a pattern when sewing stuff sacks. They're way too easy to require the use of a pattern. However, if you need one, here ya go (http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/make_your_own_gear_5_yards_to_sul_part_2.html).

Thanks Hooch. I could make one easily that would be like a big pillowcase, it was how to make a fancier bottom that I wondered about. I was thinking about cutting a circle and making a round bottom, but felt that would weaken the whole bag. Thanks for the link showing how to make a square bottom.

Dan,

THe way i do it (ive done 3 so far) is cut a circle for the bottom (as large as you would like, and cut it out with about 1/2 to 1 inch of extra (we can trim later). Then take your flexible sewin ruler and measure how much fabric you need for the sides. Add an extra half inch on either end for the seam.

Fold the top of the rectangular piece down for the tie off, and then sew it into a column.

Pin the bottom of the column to the circle and sew around the bottom.

Turn inside out, then feed the string, rope, chain, whatever through the top, and you are all set.

Thanks guys!

I buy sil-nylon from Quest outfitters. They have 2nds and mill ends for a reasonable price. They also have the best gross grain ribbon I've ever seen.

I buy sil-nylon from Quest outfitters. They have 2nds and mill ends for a reasonable price. They also have the best gross grain ribbon I've ever seen.


yep. the silnylon 2nds are 6.00 a yard.. great folks, too.