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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 she’s created using this digital method. Whether you're curious, cautious, or completely sold, she offers tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and make the switch with confidence.

Also in this episode:
– Gear you’ll need for the ideal setup
– Troubleshooting brightness, distortion, and calibration issues
– Go-to resources and must-follow accounts for projector sewing
– A special shoutout to Trail Days in Damascus, VA (May 16–18)
– Exclusive giveaways, discounts, and more!

Mentioned Links:

• Projectors for Sewing Facebook Group, Pattern Projector, ProjectorSewing.com, https://projectandcut.com/
• https://projectorsewing.com/
• Accounts to follow: @minimalistmachinist @aaronicabcolestudio @marliesreukers 
• @Madeby_francesca
• ThreadLoop

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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: 
  • ZPP
  • Tarp 
  • Wallet
  • Bear Bag Kit with Dyneema® Composite Fabric
  • Alpha Raglan Hoodie
  • Dias Shorts
• Fabrics: 
  • 210D Venom™ Gridstop ECO  
  • 3.4 oz Nylon Taslan/Supplex
  • 1.1 oz Silpoly

Ep. 69 - Making Happy Accidents with Dustin Klein 

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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 College of Textiles 
• Summer Course for High School Students
• Physical Testing Lab

Products Mentioned: 

• Dyneema® Composite Fabric 
• 1.0 oz MONOLITE Ripstop Nylon Mesh
• 4.0 oz Pocket Mesh
• Challenge ULTRA™ 800X

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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 Needles
• Schmetz Sharp/Microtex Machine Needles
• Gutermann MARA 70
• Gutermann MARA 50
• 210 Venom™ Gridstop ECO

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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. 

Oveja Negra

Please note: Our guests were recording in their sew shop. This makes the conversation feel very organic, like two makers in their element. However, it can be disruptive and a bit loud at times. We want to apologize for the quality being below our standard and assure you that we will make sure this doesn't happen again. 

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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/maker-sponsorship-2025

Where to Look for Used Machines

• Zamir Sew

Recommended Machines: 

• Juki DNU 1541
• Juki 1181
• Juki 8300 - 8700 

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There 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. 

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This episode is a little different than most. Instead of skipping this week, we decided to give you a short episode because we have some exciting news! Tune in to hear about, the hardest pack Jameson has ever made, stories from behind the scenes of our newest fabrics, as well as the details on our maker meet up next month.

New Products: 

• Shop the New Year New Gear Sale 
  • https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pages/new-year-new-gear-2025
• 210D Venom™ Gridstop ECO  
  • https://ripstopbytheroll.com/products/210d-venom-gridstop-eco?rfsn=7912242.9c07386
• 0.9 oz MEMBRANE 15 ECO Ripstop Nylon 
  • https://ripstopbytheroll.com/products/0-9-oz-membrane-15-ripstop-nylon-calendered-eco?rfsn=7912242.9c07386
• 5.1 oz Lycra PowerMesh
  • https://ripstopbytheroll.com/products/lycra-powermesh?rfsn=7912242.9c07386
• 4.0 oz Pocket Mesh
  • https://ripstopbytheroll.com/products/4-0-oz-pocket-mesh?rfsn=7912242.9c07386

Fan Mail Questions: 

• Youtube link for Derrick Hansen episode 
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8nJl4_n2k8

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Many people know the joys of hammock camping and sleeping in an elevated system. But there are perils as well. For example, plummeting to the earth in the middle of the night. In this episode, we talk with Matt Smith from Dream Hammock about how to choose the right fabric and avoid injury, improve your sleep, and keep your base-weight down.

Guest:
Matt Smith
https://dream-hammock.com/

Products:
1.7 oz MTN XL Hybrid Ripstop Nylon
1.6 oz HyperD
1.2 oz MTN XL Hybrid Ripstop Nylon 6.6 

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If you want to become a better maker, understanding the nuances of fabrics and fabric attributes is crucial to your development. We still hear a lot of people mention old or disproven theories about what fabrics can and cannot do. Don't be left in the dark. Listen to hear about 8 common fabric myths and how they impact your projects.

The Myths

• 1. Technical Fabrics are uncomfortable against the skin 
• 2. The best insulation is always down 
• 3. DCF is a weak textile
• 4. DWR lasts forever 
• 5. You need the perfect thread and needle for each fabric
• 6. You can’t sew technical fabrics without professional gear
• 7. Fabrics that include a ripstop grid are always stronger than ones without
• 8. You need the HH to be as high as possible for functional gear 

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