So, it's that time of year. This board has been quiet for some time; it is going to be a while before the end of Sublimation Season...so what's everyone working on?

I have a few DIY projects in mind over here:
Repair my UL Portage Pack that I built last year; also going to add a map pocket.

Two different prototypes for extremely lightweight tables.

Rain pants, probably more than one set.

A modification to my Ultralight Bug Shelter .

And I am seriously contemplating another Portage Pack build, a "v2" if you will, hopefully improving on a few things from v1.

How about everyone else?

I’ve got several things in the works. Last summer I got quite a few days paddling in the wilderness (38) and seemed to get hit by a lot of storms, persistent winds, or prolonged pounding rain. I often carry a small 7x7 foot tarp to set up as a quick shelter while paddling or over my tent for added wind and rain protection, but it got so much use last summer that I’ve decided to upsize and make a new one that’s 8x8 for just a bit more protection. I really like having a “porch” over the door of my tent so I have a place to get out of my wet rain gear and wipe off my dog before crawling inside.

I also got a good sized 5x5 inch rip near the edge of my 10x10 foot tarp. Instead of just patching it I’ve decided to cut that section out and add on another 4-5 feet making my tarp about 10x14 or so. I had multiple times last year where I had to basically stake on edge down or bring my canoe up to use as a wind wall. This bigger version solve this. So in two words - more tarps.

I’m also toying with making a similar but smaller version of my bug shelter, and also need to repair the one I’ve got.

sns: "Two different prototypes for extremely lightweight tables."

Very much looking forward to seeing your design. Would love a light weight portable table for winter camping.

Starting a new tarp for my hammock system, the one I have is starting to show its age. A storage / hip bag to attach to my canoe pack. I also need a bag for my Skillet to help corral some of the tar and ash left on it.

I like the idea you are presenting on the pack. I will be watching that closely and may have to produce one for myself.

I'm making a screen shelter. I determined the footprint and vertical dimensions I wanted then made a set of poles and took measurements for the fabric patterns. I made scale drawings, purchased pattern material, fabric, thread, and connection fittings. I have sewn most of the connection fittings and am ready to make the full size fabric patterns.

Tomcat, that looks like an interesting project! Keep us posted.

My winter projects include another pack, but as my V2 Portage Pack was a success...the pack I've just started is a hunting pack.

I made a couple of auto-set ice-fishing rod holders... seem to work alright!

sns: "Tomcat, that looks like an interesting project! Keep us posted.


My winter projects include another pack, but as my V2 Portage Pack was a success...the pack I've just started is a hunting pack."

+1

Just put together a folding buck saw. When taken apart the blade hides in a slot. This was a trial version, I want to create one with some curves and some more decorative woodworking. This works though! :-)

Traveler: "Just put together a folding buck saw. When taken apart the blade hides in a slot. This was a trial version, I want to create one with some curves and some more decorative woodworking. This works though! :-)
"

Nice!

A new version with a little more artistic touch.

Traveler: "A new version with a little more artistic touch. "

Traveler, very artistic and the logs and leaves in the photo display it well.

I'm curious what it looks like folded ?

John

Thanks, John. The handles have a kerf on the outside that protects the blade as the handles fold outwards and wrap around. I think I want to sew a canvas/leather bag to hold it all.

Sorry the pics are so out of focus, not sure what I did. You get the idea anyway.

Traveler, I think a traditional looking canvas case with a leather/brass buckle closure and maybe a detachable leather shoulder strap would be a good fit for the saw. For storage I would have it assembled and display it on a wall.