Ripstop on the Record

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Most of us like the idea of American-made production, but very few of us understand the complexity (or the role DIY makers can play in rebuilding it). This conversation explores what it actually takes to build sewn products sustainably in America without losing sight of the people behind the products.
The Carolina Textile District helps businesses (big and small) create amazing products here in the US through educational courses, businesses connections, and operational support. 
Sewn Goods 101 Course
Industrial Sewing Program
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Any project is a serious undertaking—but sewing everything for your thru-hike is next level. That’s exactly what Eliza did for the CDT. She breaks down what it actually takes to design, sew, and trust a full 15-piece kit when failure isn’t really an option.
In this episode: 
Where to start when you want to make something big 
Why the failed prototype helped in the long run 
How Eliza approached fabric selection
What she did this project for
Listen in to get inspired and see where your next build can take you. 
Guest: 
Eliza Sweeney
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The line between professional gear and great DIY gear is hard to define. Instead of guessing, we brought in a pro. A product developer with Patagonia and Yeti experience breaks down what actually matters and what makers can learn from the big companies. 
In This Episode, We Cover:
 The real difference between product design and product development—and why it matters for makers / cottage companies 
 How big companies turn rough ideas into finished products (and what you can steal from that process) 
 Simple ways to define your project upfront so you don’t get stuck, overbuild, or lose direction 
 How to handle feedback, check your ego, and iterate like a pro without burning out your creativity 
 Listen in and start building with more clarity, confidence, and intention before you even sit down at the machine.

Guest: 
Kyle Rogers - Project Waterloo, LinkedIn
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Stop rushing your photos and start making your gear look as good as it actually is. Cinematographer and maker Chris Ellison breaks down how to think about composition, environment, and presentation so your projects hit differently the moment people see them. 
In This Episode, We Cover:
Why most maker photos fall flat—and the simple shift that instantly improves them 
How to use environment, framing, and depth to make your gear the clear focal point 
Practical tricks like stuffing, shaping, and staging your bags so they photograph clean and intentional 
How real-world use, travel, and feedback loops shape better design (and better visuals) over time 
Listen in and start taking photos (and making gear) that actually do your work justice.
Explore Ellison Handmade: 
Website 
Instagram 
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X-Pac®
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Not every upgrade happens at the sewing machine. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or unsure why your work isn’t improving, this episode breaks down the mindset shifts that actually move you forward.
Filip Raboch joins us to share what he’s learned building custom gear at a high level. Listen so you can avoid the common traps and start making smarter, more intentional decisions in your own process.
Why identifying a specific use is most important 
How to say no and why you have to 
The hidden reality of being a custom gear maker for a living 
Guest: 
Filip Raboch Custom Gear

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@RipstopbytheRoll
www.ripstopbytheroll.com