I am planning to make a small Duluth style pack for one of my younger grandkids. Have any of you completed a project that requires back straps? Do you make your own patterns? Where do you get strong canvas or cordura? Help! Advice?

Straight Pack Straps are easy. just add your seam allowances after measuring around the foam. Sew the cloth inside out You can then turn it right side out over the foam padding. Leave extra on the ends for buckels and room to seam onto the pack; and a bit extra as getting the foam in the correct position along the length is not a science.
The # 3 style pack is as simple as a pillow case type of construction.

500 denier cordura should be sturdy enough for a kid pack. If you are in the Twin cities Metro area thrifty outfitters has most of what you may need as well as Harris Warehouse. CCS will sell supplies as well. I know of no one selling patterns.

Here's a 'Make' project for a portage pack. Looks like a knockoff of a Granite Gear pack, maybe.

Make Zine Portage Pack

quote DanCooke: "Straight Pack Straps are easy. just add your seam allowances after measuring around the foam. Sew the cloth inside out You can then turn it right side out over the foam padding. Leave extra on the ends for buckels and room to seam onto the pack; and a bit extra as getting the foam in the correct position along the length is not a science.
The # 3 style pack is as simple as a pillow case type of construction.


500 denier cordura should be sturdy enough for a kid pack. If you are in the Twin cities Metro area thrifty outfitters has most of what you may need as well as Harris Warehouse. CCS will sell supplies as well. I know of no one selling patterns."

Dan, Thanks for the info. I didn't realize that Thrifty had yardage. Now I just have to get busy!