Looking for an easier way to carry my Coleman stove and to keep the fuel separate from other gear and this is what I came up with.



This is my first attempt at making any sort of pack and it does leave you with a respect for people that are good at it.

Great project! We all learn these things by jumping in and getting our feet wet. Nothing wrong these results on a first pack project.
Looking at the thread lines on your seams, I am trying to decide what might be going on with your machine. Could be that the lower tension is a little tight, while the upper tension is also a little loose(?) Also, buy high quality thread and you may end up with less fraying. Certainly not trying to pick it apart - just trying to pass along something that I have had trouble with as well.

That looks great. I've not tried making a pack because of all the forethought /seam planning needed to construct it all together.

Is it a single layer of material or is there any padding to protect the stove? ...I know those colemans are pretty robust.

The front side of it is asking for a cool logo or patch or something in the center.

I like the cordlock closures over the fuel bottles. Is it velcro on the top flap? Velcro closes nice but beware it has a tendency to collect dirt/debris after repeated outdoor use and sometimes not stick as well. It's always nice to see a new project come to fruition: especially if it's something you've not attempted before! Well done.

Thanks for the compliments and nothing wrong with constructive criticism. I'm new to sewing and new to this machine. The bobbin tension seems on the loose side to me and the upper tension seems to look better when It's tight. I need to use better planning with the thread tension because when I go through more layers of material the tension needs to be tighter to pull the thread tight. I bought the thread that the repair, supply shop sells. It's cowboy brand, 138 nylon. I guess he carries their thread because he sells their machines.
There is more thought that goes into a project like this than I would have guessed. I cut apart and re sewed several seams because of working inside out and when I turned it right side out one thing or another would be backwards or on the wrong side. It is a single layer thick. I used some heavy weight cordura which seems pretty tough to me. New,the Velcro holds the top flap down pretty well but down the road I'll probably add some clips like I used on the shoulder straps. I agree the front is lacking something. Just adding the clips to the front would make it more traditional.

I think it looks great! I've been sitting on plans for a pack for some time now. What weight cordura? Did you make the shoulder straps yourself or did you get them from elsewhere?

I used 600 denier in green and 1000 in black. I wanted something heavy for the bottom. The top I used some material I had on hand. Look through the old topics in this section for DIY #3 pack. I made the straps the same way as in the plans. Good luck on your project.

Are these the plans?
linky link

quote mirth: "Are these the plans?
linky link "

I think that I have seen these plans before, but it provides yet another opportunity to say:
This site never ceases to amaze.

Those are the plans. A tip of the hat to Windchill for sharing.

quote schweady: "

quote mirth: "Are these the plans?
linky link "

I think that I have seen these plans before, but it provides yet another opportunity to say:
This site never ceases to amaze.
"

Ain't that the truth! Thanks again to Windchill for sharing!

The pack is nicely done. The straps and center assembly look to be secure. I can understand the "thinking" process. I just finished a new purse and a quilting project. I had to really think about the zipper pockets, lining and getting it all done in the correct order so I didn't have to undo any seams.

My dad was cabinet maker-carpenter and would say,"Measure twice, cut once". How true!

As for the tension, when I am using heavy thread, I start with a larger needle so the threads glides through easily, leave the lower tension alone and tighten the upper tension to "pull" the thread through better. Then the best way to set the tension is to test with material scraps and see how it all works. Sometimes even rethreading the machine helps if I can't find the problem. Careful not to "over correct" the tension settings - they can be touchy - a little adjustment goes a long way!

You should be proud of your new pack. It really did turn out nicely! The side fuel bottles are a nice feature!

Here are some more pics of a collapsible table that fits into one of the side pockets. I wanted something to get the stove up off the ground. Easier on the knees.

Ok Wingnut, now it is all your fault - now I have to go and make a pack for my stove.

Should make it a lot easier to carry your stove. Should be able to bundle all the accessories to go with it in one package. I'm already thinking I should have put a sleeve on the front to carry the griddle. I still can but that means more cut apart and re sew.

Yup, griddle pocket - great idea - thanks!