A few improvements, and a few new projects I got so busy with work that I couldn’t get out a lot. I managed to get out a few half days over weekends and test some ideas. Mainly, I fine tuned the wood stove installation.

I finished a new net tent, for under the pyramid tent. I had finished another rectangular net tent, but it turned out heavier than I planned for. It appears the new no-see-em sold by Questoutfitters is thicker and heavier. I ordered some mid-weight mesh net from Ripstopbytheroll and recycled my old Silpoly tarp as floor and made this new net tent. It is substantially lighter.

I also made a simple ground sheet using a light but sturdy sailcloth. We will see how it performs.

Another project was a tent pole. Just an alternative to the hiking pole. These days I find myself leaving the hiking pole at home most of the time. I also improved the venting system in the pyramid tent.

I made stakes stow bag for the tent/tarp stakes. Those fancy and light titanium shepherd hook stakes are more like light holder, so I have switched back to the mini groundhogs.

I sewed a new wool base layer shirt. This is the second wool shirt and I improved many things after using the first shirt for one year. These changes include: longer arms, taller size, tighter neck hole, and no dye.

I got a new 100 wt fleece with additional wind resistant layer. I sewed a nice west warmer and balaclava with it. Nice color and keeps warmer in windy days. And a pair of wrist warmers!

Another wool project was a wool pant. I used 235 GSM last time, it is warm and soft, but a little heavy. This one is 180 GSM, it is lighter and warm enough. However it is not as high quality as other wool fabrics I have. I will see how long it will last.

Currently, I am working on a chest pack for camera. It will be connected to the backpack shoulder straps. Light and spacious. I think it is a better camera carrying option, keeping is safe, while it will remain handy.

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