After 10+ years, I've come nearly full circle on the issue DIYing gear. Long story short, I've cut way back on DIY mainly because it takes so much time away from other things I should be doing ... fitness and strength training for one, and boy do I need the training. Right now I'm training every day and if I were to take on a big project, like a tent, the training would suffer and I can't afford that.

I'm planning on a 2013 PCT thru-hike and have all but decided to buy a tent rather than make one ... unless I go with a tarp - that I'll DIY. Unlike 10 years ago, there are some really good lightweight tents out there for not a lot of money. I'll still be carrying my DIY backpack, raingear, and a few other items, though, so it's not all in vain.