My sewing for backpack gear is less exacting than when I had to sew prom dresses for my girls when they were in high school! My backpack gear looks like hell (would get a "D-" in sewing class)but as long as the stiching is strong and the design works, it is OK. I sew prototypes out of old sheets if I am uncertain about the design. I sewed a prototype pack out of old stuff sacks, and it actually was good enough to use on two long trips. I now know what changes I need and will simply tear apart the pack and use it for a pattern when I buy the more expensive material for the final. I agree with everyone else, home-made gear takes a lot of trial and error and sewing is a skill that takes some time to learn. I am of the age when all girls had to take sewing classes in junior high. My Mom sewed everything so I learned a lot from her too. Also- be careful when buying a machine- some of the cheaper machines are not suitable for heavy fabrics such as pack cloth or Kevlar.