Send us a text Let us know what you want out of the podcast for 2026. Email us: social@ripstopbytheroll.com Sadly, the episode that was planned for this week had a technical problem and was lost entirely. We're bummed because this was going to be a fun episode. After only missing one week over the 5 years we've been running the show, we suppose it was bound to happen eventually. Don't worry, we have exciting episodes planned for 2026 and you can expect to hear from us on a regular basis...

Send us a text How our guest went from weekend prototypes to leading design work at The North Face, Nike, and Burton. This episode traces what it really takes to get great at designing gear. You’ll hear practical insights on materials, overseas factories, and the decisions that shape products you trust. Guest: Douglas Davidson of Canvas Worker and The Brown Buffalo Factories Mentioned: http://www.pungkook.com/AJ Factory, https://www.instagram.com/kcajvn/Meru Documentary Find...

Send us a text Sewing mistakes happen to everyone. Yes, even the pros. Today we’re breaking down how to actually fix the ones that haunt your workshop. From feeding fabric through the machine to perfecting seam allowances and choosing the right project order, we’re giving you the guide we wish we had on day one. Plus, we answer community questions on binding 3D shapes, PSA tape stitching, machine feed types, and even… what happened to Isaac? 2025 DIY Kit Sale Ep. 135 with Luke Mathers f...

Send us a text Great pack fabrics don't always come right from the mill. Luke from Truce Designs finds some of his fabrics from old sailboats, kites, and scrap bins. Upcycled fabrics aren't just "green" they're durable, functional, and full of old stories. They're the perfect accent to include on a bespoke project. Listen to this episode to hear about what to look for, what to stay away from, and how to upcycle old materials. Truce Designs Links: Website Youtube ChannelInstag...

Send us a text Good design is more than shapes and stitches. It’s timing, color, and knowing when something is good enough to release. We chat with James from Route Unknown to talk about secrets behind the drop method and how he creates modular, beautiful, and ultra-durable products in his one-man shop. Plus, why the UK doesn't have that many cottage companies. Listen to the episode to understand the edgy title :) https://www.instagram.com/route__unknown/ https://route-unknown.com/ ja...

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...