It's been around 7 years since I first saw this video and I'm back now as I'm (finally) getting ready to do this same thing. It's been in the back of my mind for a very long time.
Thanks David - I’m really pleased with it - lots more room, more enclosed for cold conditions and the stove makes it! Just need some snow now so I can test it properly!! Atb, Simon.
@@simonablokeinthewoods Hi Simon, firstly thanks for the video. Inspiring. I'm starting on my own now. What thread did you use for the stitching? And did you have to seal the seams somehow? Thank you.
Man Simon, I LIKE the Job you did on this "Vavvu" Tent to customize it to the way of your liking. And, I LIKE it too! You did a Wonderful Job on it.....now on to part 2...
+Danny Walker - Cheers Danny - glad you liked it! I'm really pleased with how it came out - it was ideal for a customising project - being canvas. It's quite heavy, but I only really use it for canoeing trips or car camping. Atb, Simon.
Hi Simon, I havnt seen any of your postings before but this is the video I've been waiting a year for. Ive been modifying my Lavvu for about 6 months and its almost Identical to yours. I tucked the snow flaps under and laid a round tarp inside as a groundsheet as sewing one in was a pain, your idea about using velcro was brilliant, thats going to be my next mod. Liked the side zipped vent hole but I didnt need to have a dedicated hole for my stove flu as I used an arm hole with a metal tube liner, it works fine buts not as waterproof as yours. Good video, well presented and informative without all the bullsh#t. Look forward to your next postings.
+JAY WHITTAKER - Thanks for the kind comments Jay, really appreciated!! Yes, the Velcro was the only way I could think of adding a groundsheet and still be able to sew it! The stove pipe through the armhole approach was what I was originally going to do, but then got inspired to make a removable Stove jack. But to be honest your method is just as good! And probably no less weatherproof. Good luck with the Velcro sewing. Atb, Simon.
Hi ! Got my Lavvu today and it was brand new. Fun to see your nice solutions to sew and modify your Lavvu. Will convince my wife that she helps me to sew because I can not sew 😀😂 Have a nice evening!
great videos, Ive worked on mine for months... I know exactly what you mean by it being a pain to shove all the tent through the sewing machine... I like your idea of the Velcro for the floor, I was going with the sewn in version, the tent is heavy already. I would suggest sewing military mosquito screen on the outside of the half moon opening and the zippered arm holes so you have it open and no bugs coming in... I live in the southeast of the US and we get mosquitos bad.... I put a stove jack in the top so the stove could be in the center, I now wish Id done what you did.... I think I may do your side walls, I didn't because I didn't want to worry about tripping on the cords at night.... you've done a great job... congrats...
Thanks - glad you like it! The Velcro really helped - I considered using heavy duty zips, but they are surprisingly difficult to find in the length I needed. The mosquito netting is a good idea, especially for your part of the world, thankfully, we have less of a problem here - some mosquitos, horse flies and the midge, but not too bad. The side walls make a HUGE difference to the internal space, well worth doing and yes, the guy lines are a pain at first, but you get used to them. Good luck with your ‘revised edition’! Atb, Simon.
I took a third and sewed it to the front. I matched the top cap and then sewed it in a upside down V pattern on the seam past the arm openings on the front. Then I cut the two arm panels out. I then took a us army mosquito cot net and sewed a zipper in it sewing this to a panel for the front of the tent... the tent now has a vertical front door with screening so no rain comes in. I need to do a video on it... its heavy... but its super roomy... thanks for your response, have a Merry Christmas.
I really like that idea - I’ve toyed with the idea of a removable ‘porch’ just to keep an area in front of the door dry for taking boots off etc - hmmmm....food for thought!! Cheers!
Two blokes in the woods 👍🏼. This was a great trip to watch. You and Andy are a pair of blokes who really know how to enjoy nature and share a few laughs doing it. It’s nice to see 2 friends sharing a passion equally. You can see the respect between you guys. Thanks for sharing this trip and say hello to Andy for me. Cheers, safe travels & God bless 🙏🏼🏕🛶😎
This is epic Simon. I've recently purchased a lavvu in the largest of the 3 sizes they come in and it's brand new old stock. I will be using it as my winter go to shelter and I will definitely trick mine up the same as yours as I think it is brilliant. Well done.
+Dave H -Thanks Dave, glad you enjoyed the video! Mine is also the biggest version, I had to shop around for one and got it from the Netherlands in the end - also new, old stock. Great bits of kit, I love mine and I hope you get the same enjoyment out of yours! Good luck with the mods my friend, Atb, Simon.
I bought one of these at the Bushcraft Show this year - mainly as it was cheap, I thought the kids could play in it. I love these mods you've done. I need to fix my seeing machine (or by another!). I have managed to sleep in it with both kids. Thankfully they are only 3 and 6 years old - it was still tight though! I guess you would have needed new poles anyway as the height would have changed with the mod. Keep up the good work!
magicdrshoon - Cheers and thanks for watching! They are brilliant bits of kit, and versatile too I've seen mods done where only half is used with a mosi net on the other half. I bought another Lavvu as a doner, the fabric was damaged but came with the original poles and pegs, I just found them too flimsy. The wooded pole works much better, even if it's a bit heavier. Atb, Simon.
Great modifications, I just brought a lavvu tent from the Netherlands to the US, looks like I've got some work ahead of me to make it a good winter camping tent
Hey Simon, i realy wanted to wait until i have seen the 2nd PArt , but Bloody Hell that is one of the Best Polish Lavvu Modification Videos i have seen until now ! You did one Hell of a Job there , awesome mate . wish u all the best from Germany , Michael
Bluebird Outdoors - Thank you very much Michael! I've really pleased with how it came out, the Lavvu is a great bit of kit and ideal for modifying. Glad you enjoyed my friend, Cheers, Simon.
That's a cool little stove. I used to work with some Polish for years so I learnt a bit of their language and also tried that sausage which is like the frankfurters.
Simon outdoors Thanks mate! Yep, I like em, my local Eastern European food store has loads of different types, slowly working my way through the selection! Atb, Simon.
That has to be by far and away the best set of mods to a lava I have ever seen. I so wish I had the pre-requisite skills to modify mine. Thanks for sharing. ATB
+Nightwalker527 - Thank you for the generous comments! Glad you enjoyed it. I bought a cheap second hand sewing machine and just had a go really! Started sewing up simple bags etc to practice then just went for it, give it a go, it's good fun!! If I can do, so can anyone!! Lol! Cheers, Simon.
it's so funny I think we're on the same page was doing the same modifications to my lavvu and caught your video on TH-cam looks great was thinking about going a foot on the skirt to 6 inches but I'm going to have to use a u.s. military pup tent for my material lavvus are hard to come by in Southeastern Ohio I'm enjoying your videos keep them up
Thanks, glad you are enjoying the videos. The lavvu lends itself perfectly to modification - a great bit of kit! Good luck with the project, I hope it turns out well! Atb, Simon.
This is the best Lavvu I've seen so far; makes me wish I had the skills to do this myself as I am intrigued by the Lavvu as a potential hot winter tent.
Excellent workmanship and Modifications for sure. This is it! Now I know what my next set of plans are with modding my Lavvu, EVERYTHING in this video. LOL
Only recently found your channel and I am hooked! It has given me the motivation to get off the sofa and give something like this a shot. Great work, thank you!
+Knucker Thanks Al, canoeing is probably the best use for it due to the weight, but it's good for summer use without the stove too. Thanks for watching! Atb, Simon.
Sooooo, did mama teach you to sew? Amazing. Reminds me of one of those videos where the guy says, “All you need do is weld this here, etc.”😖 Well yeah, IF we regular people could weld!!!! I could do what you did here too. If I could even see on a button. I can’t. But YOU did a bang up job. 👍
Thank you Mike! It’s a good setup, I’m really happy with it - the stove needs tweaking still - a damper/butterfly in the flue to control the burn would help. Cheers, Simon
Thank you! I finally got to put it to a proper test this week - Winter hot tenting video should be up in a couple of days - I hope you enjoy it! Atb, Simon.
Hi Simon, I'm in Australia ,we don't get a lot of snow down here but I really enjoyed your videos, especially the tent stove! keep going with it you seem like a bloke with a lot of great ideas .🖖
Simon , if ever you decide to sell this as a service , yes please fella great video subscription done buddy Thanks from the deepest part of Yorkshire stillington
really like this tent.... great job. may give it a go myself. the only down side is it seems a bit heavy, but if I plan to backpack longer distances I have other tents to use.
Cheers Mark! Yes, it is on the heavy side, I’ll use it on canoe trips or camping out of a vehicle, but like you, I have lighter options for backpacking! Atb, Simon
Best Polish Lavvu I’ve seen. I love it. Just wondering do you have any pictures of the inside of the skirt or how the flooring is connected. I have someone that can do they sewing for me, and I kind of understand the process, but any pics would be awesome. Thank you again.
Thanks Greg! The skirt is made from rectangles of thick rubberised tarpaulin fabric sewn directly onto the bottom of the sidewall. The groundsheet is held in place with Velcro - I sewed one strip of Velcro to the bottom of the sidewall too, about 2 inches up from the bottom. The other strip of Velcro is sewn to the top edge of the groundsheet (which is a bathtub style, with upstands at the edges) hope that makes sense! Good luck and Atb, Simon
Simon, a bloke in the woods Awesome. I appreciate the response. Definitely understand what your talking about. Seems like my grandma is going to be a little busy sewing. Haha Thank you again. Take care. Greg
Awesome job love the mods great video. You really should consider selling these. I think they would be very popular world wide. Maybe even get a sail maker to team up with you and have them mfg. Your design and share in the profits without all the work.
Thanks Michael, glad you liked it! As much as that’s a nice idea, I have absolutely no business sense and to be honest, one was enough!! Hehehe! Cheers, Atb, Simon.
Great Job Simon! I`ve maked something similar, even with Sidewalls but also with Mesh on it and sewed Bungee Hair Gums with the Sidewalls on the Ponchos, so when i roll the Sidewalls up in Summer i can fix it with the Hair Gum and the Bugs can`t enter (The Sidealls of mine are 40cm high and sewd in at the ponchos 8cm) will soon make a YT Video of it...
Hi, thanks for watching arching! Good idea with the bug netting! I had the same idea of rolling up the side walls in summer, but I haven’t got around to sewing in tie-up loops yet - that the next phase! Atb, Simon.
Albert Jones - Thank you very much sir! Glad you enjoyed it, it was a lot of fun to do and a well pleased with the end result! A couple of tweeks to do still! Thanks for the sub!! Cheers, Simon.
CNTrails JMV - Thank you! I’m really pleased with it - probably more suited to your winters than than mine! Hahaha! Hopefully we’ll get a cold one this year so I can really test it out. Atb, Simon.
Cheers Lee! You’ll be fine - get yourself a second hand machine - it doesn’t take long to get the hang of using one - oh, and lots of spare needles haha! Atb,Simon.
I'd really like to see how you added the extra height to the lavvu. I'd also like to see how you attached the tarpoline fabric via Velcro, and how you created the "bathtub" style base for extra support.
The height was increased by sewing a 300mm side wall to the bottom of the existing lavvu (with a 50mm overhand for water runoff) the groundsheet is made as described below. Good luck. 👍
Hi I was looking at your tent, very beautiful and practical, you can tell me where you bought it and if they ship to Italy. thanks and very very nice video compliments
Hi Simon! Love your modifications, used to have a lavvu but unfortunately lost it in a move?! I'm intending to get another and your Modifications would make it the world better! However, I'm rubbish with a needle and thread.... So my question is: who can I take it to, to do these modifications?! A seamstress? A upholsterer? Please help!
Thank you! Im sure either would be able to help you out - otherwise a sailmaker (if such a profession still exists haha!) good luck, I hope you manage to get something sorted! Atb, Simon
Hi! Incredible work! Thanks for sharing! *If i have seen well it is a size 3 lavvu? *Could you take out the stiches to take off the internal flaps, (That parts that fits on top of the shoulders when in poncho mode) just to feel more roomier inside? Is it a good idea?What do you think? *Also another question, any recommendation for the zips ? are they still working well? I apreciate your experienced opinion! Thanks in advance Good job!
Nice vid Simon.I have 2 lavvu .my 4 year old likes her own space with a nip of glamping I cant keep her inside the house she is a wonder at 4 she has her own kit .daddy just assists a little.
Hi,I realy like the modifikations you have don to your Lavvu. Is the extra space enough for two persons sleeping in the lavvu with the stove. I'm trying to figure out the best way to modify my lavvu to give enough space for two people and the stove.atb Jonas
Hi Jonas, yes, there is enough room for two with the stove, if sleeping on mats/pads on the ground, I don't think two camp beds would fit though! Thanks for watching, Atb, Simon
Thanks allot, then I think I will try a similar modification on my lavvu. You have succeeded in really smart changes without ruining the "tipi design", (sorry for my English, I'm from Sweden, The land of the LK35 :-) ) Atb Jonas
Jonas L -Thanks Jonas! Good luck with modifications!! I love my LK35, and of course the good old Trangia, oh and the Optimus!! A lot of good things have been designed and made in your great country! I will visit one day! Atb, Simon.
Amazing! This video inspired me into purchasing my own Lavvu... I received it yesterday :) and I'm looking forward to copying your mods! Thank you Simon
Micheal Stephenson - Thanks! I'm not planning on making another one to be honest, it took ages to make this one and I just haven't got time. Get hold of a second hand sewing machine and have a go, it wasn't that hard to do and it's quite enjoyable really! Good luck! 👍🏻
Fantastic. This is exactly what I am looking for, to use on my longer kayak trips where weight and bulk matters less. Really love to try one them out. But how do they handle heavy rain? I live in Northern Thailand, and in the rainy season we get a massive amount of rain in short time. I found traditional tents to struggle keeping water out. How is this doing?
Thank you! I’ve used it in heavy downpours here in the UK, but nothing like you have in Thailand! I think it would stand up to it well, but you’d need more ventilation in the tent - when the canvas fibres get wet, the swell up making it waterproof, but also stopping it ‘breathing’ 👍
Great modifications. Just wondered if there was any issues with water ingress with the new stitching. Was it a special kind of stitch or thread or did you need to coat them after?
Thanks Daniel! Not had any problem with water ingress - I’ve used it in very heavy rain and totally dry - the stitch is just a simple running stitch using Guterman sew-all thread. 👍
Superb. How about doing a vid on how to go about getting permission to camp in woodland. It’s a big problem for us in the south of England....so crowded down here!
Cheers - yes, a big problem for us all! Keep trying and use ‘wildlife photography’ as your reason - might get you a foot in the door and then you could build up trust and perhaps permission for overnight. Good luck!
Simon, Are these mods something that you can do (for a charge) for others? I also have a Lavvu which I love but the mods you have made really make it a great tent for winter woodland camping. Sandy
Wiltshire Man - Hi Sandy, thanks for watching! This is a question I’ve been asked a few times now. It was just a one-off really, I enjoyed the project, but once was enough!! Lol! I haven’t got the time right now to do another, but if you decide to have a go yourself, I’m more than happy to help you out in a sort of advisory way - it’s not too difficult once you get your head around the sewing machine bit!! Atb, Simon.
Thanks Simon, Yes I can understand. I should imagine it is quite a time consuming project. Anyway, your video has given me food for thought. Thanks once again Sandy
Simon, a bloke in the woods sorry to but in this conversation, I would love to try adding the skirt mod to the bottom of my lavvu, would you have any more guidance on how many spare lavvu you bought? Ways to utilise the material etc. I think I’ll manage the sewing it is the template of the material I will struggle with.
Wild Camping NI - Thanks for watching! Sure, more than happy to help out! I bought one extra lavvu as a doner for material. I marked out strips of canvas from the triangular panels (300nm wide) some strips were longer than others - I just marked out the biggest I could get. Cut them out and sew them end to end making a long strip- longer than the circumference of the lavvu. I then hemmed this along each long edge. I sewed the side wall to the lavvu about 50mm in from the bottom edge of the lavvu. Start at any point and keep sewing around until you meet where you started. You can then cut off the excess and sew the ends together making a complete ‘band’. Lastly I reinforced the grommet/attachment points. I hope that makes sense, it’s easier to do than to explain how to do!!! Lol! Good luck! Atb, Simon.
Love this little tent I was looking for a small canvas tent for canoe camping the mods. you have done are spot on. To that end I have just purchased a lavvu I think my mods will be side walls and door zips, could I ask what thread you use and will a standard sewing machine do the job also what zips would be best? Keep up the great videos much appreciated.
Hi David - thanks! This is a perfect set-up for canoe camping trips, and that’s exactly what I had in mind when I made it. The side walls make a huge difference to the useable space inside! I used big standard Guterman polyester sew-all thread on a normal (albeit old) sewing machine. It worked fine, but struggled a bit with the thicker sections where you are sewing through multiple layers. Persevere though, you make break a few needles, but you’ll get there in the end!! I found the zips on eBay - they are heavy duty ykk ones, otherwise you can recycle a zip from on old sleeping bag - as long as the zip is a good thick one! Old surplus sleeping bags might be a good source! Good luck with the mods - let me know how it comes out! Atb, Simon.
After much searching on the lavvu mod's made my day when I watched yours as I orderd an extra poncho for putting a skirt on the bottom but had not really come up with a plan. nice vids solution works well how did you stitch the top ?
peter monaghan - Thanks Peter, glad it helped! The top was the most difficult to stitch, I stitched up as high as I could by feeding the two ponchos through my machine, but it got the point where I could get no closer. The last bit I stitched by hand, using thimbles so I could push the needle through the multiple layers, it was a real pain, but is possible. The reinforced 'patch' with the loop on, I had already stitched on first. I hope this makes sense!! Good luck with the mods my friend! Atb, Simon.
It's been around 7 years since I first saw this video and I'm back now as I'm (finally) getting ready to do this same thing. It's been in the back of my mind for a very long time.
What an awesome job you’ve done, you can hardly call it a lavvu now. It’s a tent of your own design using lavvu material, well done
Thanks David - I’m really pleased with it - lots more room, more enclosed for cold conditions and the stove makes it! Just need some snow now so I can test it properly!! Atb, Simon.
to me it is now a mini yurt type shelter
@@simonablokeinthewoods Hi Simon, firstly thanks for the video. Inspiring. I'm starting on my own now. What thread did you use for the stitching? And did you have to seal the seams somehow? Thank you.
Simon you truly amaze me with your ability to take an average shelter and turn it into something spectacular! Well done 👍 Cheers, Mike USA
Thank you , Simon .
🐺 Loupis Canis .
How can 4 people not like this video. Awesome modifications well done👍👍👍
Thanks, glad you liked it! Can’t wait for some really cold weather to test it out properly - watch this space! Atb, Simon.
Man Simon, I LIKE the Job you did on this "Vavvu" Tent to customize it to the way of your liking. And, I LIKE it too! You did a Wonderful Job on it.....now on to part 2...
+Danny Walker - Cheers Danny - glad you liked it! I'm really pleased with how it came out - it was ideal for a customising project - being canvas. It's quite heavy, but I only really use it for canoeing trips or car camping. Atb, Simon.
Hi Simon, I havnt seen any of your postings before but this is the video I've been waiting a year for. Ive been modifying my Lavvu for about 6 months and its almost Identical to yours. I tucked the snow flaps under and laid a round tarp inside as a groundsheet as sewing one in was a pain, your idea about using velcro was brilliant, thats going to be my next mod. Liked the side zipped vent hole but I didnt need to have a dedicated hole for my stove flu as I used an arm hole with a metal tube liner, it works fine buts not as waterproof as yours. Good video, well presented and informative without all the bullsh#t. Look forward to your next postings.
+JAY WHITTAKER - Thanks for the kind comments Jay, really appreciated!! Yes, the Velcro was the only way I could think of adding a groundsheet and still be able to sew it! The stove pipe through the armhole approach was what I was originally going to do, but then got inspired to make a removable Stove jack. But to be honest your method is just as good! And probably no less weatherproof. Good luck with the Velcro sewing. Atb, Simon.
Cheers Simon
Hi ! Got my Lavvu today and it was brand new. Fun to see your nice solutions to sew and modify your Lavvu. Will convince my wife that she helps me to sew because I can not sew 😀😂 Have a nice evening!
Ah! Exciting times - good luck with the mods!
You got some skills there stitching
Cheers Steve! It was no easy task! But I’m really happy with the finished tent. Worth the hard work and broken needles! Atb, Simon.
Just found your channel, now binge watching my way through your videos, like your style
Cheers Ian - glad you found the channel and glad you’re enjoying them! Atb, Simon.
amazing job mate, good on ya
great videos, Ive worked on mine for months... I know exactly what you mean by it being a pain to shove all the tent through the sewing machine... I like your idea of the Velcro for the floor, I was going with the sewn in version, the tent is heavy already. I would suggest sewing military mosquito screen on the outside of the half moon opening and the zippered arm holes so you have it open and no bugs coming in... I live in the southeast of the US and we get mosquitos bad.... I put a stove jack in the top so the stove could be in the center, I now wish Id done what you did.... I think I may do your side walls, I didn't because I didn't want to worry about tripping on the cords at night.... you've done a great job... congrats...
Thanks - glad you like it! The Velcro really helped - I considered using heavy duty zips, but they are surprisingly difficult to find in the length I needed. The mosquito netting is a good idea, especially for your part of the world, thankfully, we have less of a problem here - some mosquitos, horse flies and the midge, but not too bad. The side walls make a HUGE difference to the internal space, well worth doing and yes, the guy lines are a pain at first, but you get used to them. Good luck with your ‘revised edition’! Atb, Simon.
I took a third and sewed it to the front. I matched the top cap and then sewed it in a upside down V pattern on the seam past the arm openings on the front. Then I cut the two arm panels out. I then took a us army mosquito cot net and sewed a zipper in it sewing this to a panel for the front of the tent... the tent now has a vertical front door with screening so no rain comes in. I need to do a video on it... its heavy... but its super roomy... thanks for your response, have a Merry Christmas.
I really like that idea - I’ve toyed with the idea of a removable ‘porch’ just to keep an area in front of the door dry for taking boots off etc - hmmmm....food for thought!! Cheers!
Two blokes in the woods 👍🏼. This was a great trip to watch. You and Andy are a pair of blokes who really know how to enjoy nature and share a few laughs doing it. It’s nice to see 2 friends sharing a passion equally. You can see the respect between you guys. Thanks for sharing this trip and say hello to Andy for me. Cheers, safe travels & God bless 🙏🏼🏕🛶😎
This is epic Simon. I've recently purchased a lavvu in the largest of the 3 sizes they come in and it's brand new old stock. I will be using it as my winter go to shelter and I will definitely trick mine up the same as yours as I think it is brilliant. Well done.
+Dave H -Thanks Dave, glad you enjoyed the video! Mine is also the biggest version, I had to shop around for one and got it from the Netherlands in the end - also new, old stock. Great bits of kit, I love mine and I hope you get the same enjoyment out of yours! Good luck with the mods my friend, Atb, Simon.
Simon thats in one word fantastic a mix of tent and a fishing bivvy great idea well done.
Thanks Davey! Glad you liked it - it’d be great as a fishing bivvy - might need a porch of sorts. Cheers, Simon.
Amazing! What a great modification. I think this is the best polish lavvu tent modification ever.
Thank you! It’s great in the snow - I finally got a chance to test it out this year! Atb, Simon.
What a tent. Very good work. I have polish army lavvu tent too and i want modified it someday. You have skills.
Same as all the rest Simon, that is a fantastic job that you have done to the poncos. Very good videos to boot.
Thank you Jeff! Works really well in the snow! Atb, Simon
I bought one of these at the Bushcraft Show this year - mainly as it was cheap, I thought the kids could play in it. I love these mods you've done. I need to fix my seeing machine (or by another!).
I have managed to sleep in it with both kids. Thankfully they are only 3 and 6 years old - it was still tight though!
I guess you would have needed new poles anyway as the height would have changed with the mod.
Keep up the good work!
magicdrshoon - Cheers and thanks for watching! They are brilliant bits of kit, and versatile too I've seen mods done where only half is used with a mosi net on the other half. I bought another Lavvu as a doner, the fabric was damaged but came with the original poles and pegs, I just found them too flimsy. The wooded pole works much better, even if it's a bit heavier. Atb, Simon.
Very good solution with the add-on materials. Thumbs up!
That is such a simple mod, thank you Simon. I feel a project coming on... so excited 🌻
That is absolutely superb job.. One wonderful tent made into true bomb proof and amazing winter shelter...
Great modifications, I just brought a lavvu tent from the Netherlands to the US, looks like I've got some work ahead of me to make it a good winter camping tent
Good choice! The modifying is fun, but buy spare needles, lots of needles!!
Simon, absolutely cracking video! High quality and well thought out! Keep them coming, you will be gaining subs quickly! All the best, Harry
TheFalcos22 - Thank you very much sir! That means a lot!! Part 2 is now online, takes ages to upload!👍🏻
I really like the tent mods. You are very creative. Sewing machine, lathe, welder. Cool stove build as well.
Hey Simon, i realy wanted to wait until i have seen the 2nd PArt , but Bloody Hell that is one of the Best Polish Lavvu Modification Videos i have seen until now ! You did one Hell of a Job there , awesome mate . wish u all the best from Germany , Michael
Bluebird Outdoors - Thank you very much Michael! I've really pleased with how it came out, the Lavvu is a great bit of kit and ideal for modifying. Glad you enjoyed my friend, Cheers, Simon.
Oh yes i Did very much , i use a lavvu my self but never did such an awesome mod on it :-) well done Simon , well done :-)
That's a cool little stove. I used to work with some Polish for years so I learnt a bit of their language and also tried that sausage which is like the frankfurters.
Simon outdoors Thanks mate! Yep, I like em, my local Eastern European food store has loads of different types, slowly working my way through the selection! Atb, Simon.
That has to be by far and away the best set of mods to a lava I have ever seen. I so wish I had the pre-requisite skills to modify mine. Thanks for sharing. ATB
+Nightwalker527 - Thank you for the generous comments! Glad you enjoyed it. I bought a cheap second hand sewing machine and just had a go really! Started sewing up simple bags etc to practice then just went for it, give it a go, it's good fun!! If I can do, so can anyone!! Lol! Cheers, Simon.
it's so funny I think we're on the same page was doing the same modifications to my lavvu and caught your video on TH-cam looks great was thinking about going a foot on the skirt to 6 inches but I'm going to have to use a u.s. military pup tent for my material lavvus are hard to come by in Southeastern Ohio I'm enjoying your videos keep them up
Thanks, glad you are enjoying the videos. The lavvu lends itself perfectly to modification - a great bit of kit! Good luck with the project, I hope it turns out well! Atb, Simon.
This is the best Lavvu I've seen so far; makes me wish I had the skills to do this myself as I am intrigued by the Lavvu as a potential hot winter tent.
What a gem this channel is
Excellent workmanship and Modifications for sure. This is it! Now I know what my next set of plans are with modding my Lavvu, EVERYTHING in this video. LOL
Only recently found your channel and I am hooked! It has given me the motivation to get off the sofa and give something like this a shot. Great work, thank you!
Legend has it this man was able to make s boat from a few match stick's and sail around the world.
😂😂😂
That's a nice four season canoeing tent you've made.
All the best,
Al
+Knucker Thanks Al, canoeing is probably the best use for it due to the weight, but it's good for summer use without the stove too. Thanks for watching! Atb, Simon.
Sooooo, did mama teach you to sew? Amazing. Reminds me of one of those videos where the guy says, “All you need do is weld this here, etc.”😖 Well yeah, IF we regular people could weld!!!! I could do what you did here too. If I could even see on a button. I can’t. But YOU did a bang up job. 👍
Great modifications, really like what you've done! Given me some ideas. Thanks for the super videos.
Thanks - glad it was useful! Just need some cold weather to try it out!! Atb, Simon.
Hello Simon. . Really informative video as usual. I think your mods are first class. . Thanks chap.
This is awesome mate! Incredible craftsmanship.
Still discovering all your videos, lovin it so far!! Nice Newfoundland dog, that's where I live Newfoundland
Absolutely brilliant! Well done, and the craftsmanship is the best I’ve seen so far! 👍🏼👍🏼
Brilliant!!! I watched your WINTER use of this laavu and just had to watch this MOD video also. Great work!
Thank you Mike! It’s a good setup, I’m really happy with it - the stove needs tweaking still - a damper/butterfly in the flue to control the burn would help. Cheers, Simon
This is by far the best converted Lavvu I've seen some amazing idea's! I'd definitely pay you to do the same to mine!
Thanks Daniel - glad you like it! 👍 Atb, Simon.
u r genius man! i couldnt even imagine what u did for this awesome poncho aye! thumbs up man!
Thank you! I finally got to put it to a proper test this week - Winter hot tenting video should be up in a couple of days - I hope you enjoy it! Atb, Simon.
Awesome video and lavvu mods Simon, the best I've seen! Thank you for sharing.
Tn.Tim Bushcraft -Thank you Tim! Glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers, Simon.
Hi Simon, I'm in Australia ,we don't get a lot of snow down here but I really enjoyed your videos, especially the tent stove! keep going with it you seem like a bloke with a lot of great ideas .🖖
Thanks Ross! Yes, the stove might be a bit overkill for your climate! It’s overkill for 95% of ours too haha! Atb, Simon.
WOW! Some awesome mods you've made to that..............my poor old standard one seems not quite so great now. Great work!
Jason Edmunds -Thanks amigo! 👍🏻
I saw this on a later video, awesome!
Absolutely ingenious. I'm now going to learn to sew just so I can do this with my lavvu's
You sir are amazing at what you make, awesome once again thanks
verry good modified, thx
Love what you have done with your lavvu, you've just got another subscriber
daren barling - Thank you Daren, glad you enjoyed it! Looking forward to some cold weather to really test it out!And thanks for the sub!! 👍Atb, Simon.
Simon , if ever you decide to sell this as a service , yes please fella great video subscription done buddy
Thanks from the deepest part of Yorkshire stillington
Simply exceptional job..
Jim badger - Thanks Jim, glad you like it! 👍
I recon you make a lot of money by selling Lavvu`s with this type of mod.....Brilliant, idea excellent work !!
+Steven Hepple - Thanks Stephen, if only I had the time!! Glad you enjoyed it!! Atb, Simon.
Thats a pity, i would buy one in a heart beat as i cant sew for toffee :)
really like this tent.... great job. may give it a go myself. the only down side is it seems a bit heavy, but if I plan to backpack longer distances I have other tents to use.
Cheers Mark! Yes, it is on the heavy side, I’ll use it on canoe trips or camping out of a vehicle, but like you, I have lighter options for backpacking! Atb, Simon
One of my thoughts are to make the sides a bit higher.... say 2 feet instead of just 1 foot. Also.... some sort of window s for light or screen
Both doable ideas, bit more head-height, and it is very dark in there haha!
you could easily make a clear vinyl window where you have the stove jack. Attach it with Velcro like stove jack and cover.
Simon, your the Man Love your tent Sir .Excellent
wow - nice bit of work there Simon!
Incredible, GREAT JOB my friend. Regards from Madrid (Spain)
Best Polish Lavvu I’ve seen. I love it.
Just wondering do you have any pictures of the inside of the skirt or how the flooring is connected.
I have someone that can do they sewing for me, and I kind of understand the process, but any pics would be awesome.
Thank you again.
Thanks Greg!
The skirt is made from rectangles of thick rubberised tarpaulin fabric sewn directly onto the bottom of the sidewall. The groundsheet is held in place with Velcro - I sewed one strip of Velcro to the bottom of the sidewall too, about 2 inches up from the bottom. The other strip of Velcro is sewn to the top edge of the groundsheet (which is a bathtub style, with upstands at the edges) hope that makes sense! Good luck and Atb, Simon
Simon, a bloke in the woods
Awesome. I appreciate the response. Definitely understand what your talking about.
Seems like my grandma is going to be a little busy sewing. Haha
Thank you again. Take care.
Greg
Those are super mods my friend. Well done. Cheers from Fred in Canada
VE3FAL1_Fred - Thanks Fred, glad you enjoyed! Atb, Simon.
Awesome job love the mods great video. You really should consider selling these. I think they would be very popular world wide. Maybe even get a sail maker to team up with you and have them mfg. Your design and share in the profits without all the work.
Thanks Michael, glad you liked it! As much as that’s a nice idea, I have absolutely no business sense and to be honest, one was enough!! Hehehe! Cheers, Atb, Simon.
Great Job Simon!
I`ve maked something similar, even with Sidewalls but also with Mesh on it and sewed Bungee Hair Gums with the Sidewalls on the Ponchos, so when i roll the Sidewalls up in Summer i can fix it with the Hair Gum and the Bugs can`t enter (The Sidealls of mine are 40cm high and sewd in at the ponchos 8cm) will soon make a YT Video of it...
Hi, thanks for watching arching! Good idea with the bug netting! I had the same idea of rolling up the side walls in summer, but I haven’t got around to sewing in tie-up loops yet - that the next phase! Atb, Simon.
without dought this has to be the best lavvo mod on you tube very impressed and rather jealous lol you got my sub brill vid atb alb
Albert Jones - Thank you very much sir! Glad you enjoyed it, it was a lot of fun to do and a well pleased with the end result! A couple of tweeks to do still! Thanks for the sub!! Cheers, Simon.
That is a tank of a tent . Awesome mods . Take care Simon 👍
Terrific Work! You are an Artist...it certainly is no longer your "standard" Lavvu!!!
Thanks mate! 😁
Damn you're skilled! Great job!
This is so Great. I just bought two polish poncho's . Think i gonna try make the stove. Cool Channel you have
Have you got video how you put your skirt on the luva tent
Nice job mate.Looks really professional.
Thanks Graeme
Nice job on the mods. Best one I’ve seen yet with the lavvu !
Cheers John! Glad you like it, I’m pleased with it, Atb, Simon
That is really impressive..
Top job!!
CNTrails JMV - Thank you! I’m really pleased with it - probably more suited to your winters than than mine! Hahaha! Hopefully we’ll get a cold one this year so I can really test it out. Atb, Simon.
amazing job! the tent is transformed with your mods.
Declan Jennings -thank you, glad you enjoyed! Atb Simon.
Job well done sir! Looks awesome!
Thank you! Works well for cold snowy conditions. Atb,Simon
Genius, what a great job you've done there, I'm looking at getting a laavu, doubt I could adapt it to that standard, as I can sew haha. Great vids
Cheers Lee! You’ll be fine - get yourself a second hand machine - it doesn’t take long to get the hang of using one - oh, and lots of spare needles haha! Atb,Simon.
You’ve come a long way Simon just the old job
I'd really like to see how you added the extra height to the lavvu. I'd also like to see how you attached the tarpoline fabric via Velcro, and how you created the "bathtub" style base for extra support.
The height was increased by sewing a 300mm side wall to the bottom of the existing lavvu (with a 50mm overhand for water runoff) the groundsheet is made as described below. Good luck. 👍
@@simonablokeinthewoods thank you!
Love your videos. Still watching!!
Hi I was looking at your tent, very beautiful and practical, you can tell me where you bought it and if they ship to Italy.
thanks and very very nice video compliments
You should buy an modify these to sell ..perfect..I'll take 2 ....excellent job
haha yea I was thinking the same! Put me down for an order!! :P
I would buy!
You're a handy dude. Kudos
Thanks buddy! 😁
Nice job. Great tent.
Hi Simon! Love your modifications, used to have a lavvu but unfortunately lost it in a move?! I'm intending to get another and your Modifications would make it the world better! However, I'm rubbish with a needle and thread.... So my question is: who can I take it to, to do these modifications?! A seamstress? A upholsterer? Please help!
Thank you! Im sure either would be able to help you out - otherwise a sailmaker (if such a profession still exists haha!) good luck, I hope you manage to get something sorted! Atb, Simon
Hi! Incredible work! Thanks for sharing!
*If i have seen well it is a size 3 lavvu?
*Could you take out the stiches to take off the internal flaps, (That parts that fits on top of the shoulders when in poncho mode) just to feel more roomier inside? Is it a good idea?What do you think?
*Also another question, any recommendation for the zips ? are they still working well?
I apreciate your experienced opinion!
Thanks in advance Good job!
WOW! Congrats for your great job! 👍👍👍
You made that tent better than new..I luv it. ..
Is there enough material in a poncho to cut bigger piece for the bottom. Mabey 2 feet....
+xjeepmanx -Thank you! Glad you liked it! It was pretty tight getting 12” out, you’d need to find something bigger for 2’ my friend. Atb, Simon.
Nice vid Simon.I have 2 lavvu .my 4 year old likes her own space with a nip of glamping I cant keep her inside the house she is a wonder at 4 she has her own kit .daddy just assists a little.
Hi,I realy like the modifikations you have don to your Lavvu. Is the extra space enough for two persons sleeping in the lavvu with the stove. I'm trying to figure out the best way to modify my lavvu to give enough space for two people and the stove.atb Jonas
Hi Jonas, yes, there is enough room for two with the stove, if sleeping on mats/pads on the ground, I don't think two camp beds would fit though! Thanks for watching, Atb, Simon
Thanks allot, then I think I will try a similar modification on my lavvu. You have succeeded in really smart changes without ruining the "tipi design", (sorry for my English, I'm from Sweden, The land of the LK35 :-) ) Atb Jonas
Jonas L -Thanks Jonas! Good luck with modifications!! I love my LK35, and of course the good old Trangia, oh and the Optimus!! A lot of good things have been designed and made in your great country! I will visit one day! Atb, Simon.
Yes, Sweden is a beautiful country with wonderful nature, perfect for bushcrafters. You really need to visit Sweden and/or Norway one day.
I spent some weeks in Norway in 1990, climbing and walking in the Jotenheimen. I fell in love with Scandinavia then!! Sweden is on my list!
Amazing! This video inspired me into purchasing my own Lavvu... I received it yesterday :) and I'm looking forward to copying your mods! Thank you Simon
Hi, thank you! I’m glad it inspired you to have a go - good luck with the mods! Atb, Simon.
That's nice what would you charge to make one ( already have the lavvu) that set up would make it easer for me
Micheal Stephenson - Thanks! I'm not planning on making another one to be honest, it took ages to make this one and I just haven't got time. Get hold of a second hand sewing machine and have a go, it wasn't that hard to do and it's quite enjoyable really! Good luck! 👍🏻
Fantastic. This is exactly what I am looking for, to use on my longer kayak trips where weight and bulk matters less. Really love to try one them out. But how do they handle heavy rain? I live in Northern Thailand, and in the rainy season we get a massive amount of rain in short time. I found traditional tents to struggle keeping water out. How is this doing?
Thank you! I’ve used it in heavy downpours here in the UK, but nothing like you have in Thailand! I think it would stand up to it well, but you’d need more ventilation in the tent - when the canvas fibres get wet, the swell up making it waterproof, but also stopping it ‘breathing’ 👍
Great modifications. Just wondered if there was any issues with water ingress with the new stitching. Was it a special kind of stitch or thread or did you need to coat them after?
Thanks Daniel! Not had any problem with water ingress - I’ve used it in very heavy rain and totally dry - the stitch is just a simple running stitch using Guterman sew-all thread. 👍
Superb. How about doing a vid on how to go about getting permission to camp in woodland. It’s a big problem for us in the south of England....so crowded down here!
Cheers - yes, a big problem for us all! Keep trying and use ‘wildlife photography’ as your reason - might get you a foot in the door and then you could build up trust and perhaps permission for overnight. Good luck!
Very clever. I'm impressed. I'm curious what it weighs.
A lot! Hahaha. Cheers, Simon
WOW! This is a $600++ lavvu. Great video.
Thank you! I’m really pleased with it - something nice about home made gear!
Simon,
Are these mods something that you can do (for a charge) for others? I also have a Lavvu which I love but the mods you have made really make it a great tent for winter woodland camping.
Sandy
Wiltshire Man - Hi Sandy, thanks for watching! This is a question I’ve been asked a few times now. It was just a one-off really, I enjoyed the project, but once was enough!! Lol! I haven’t got the time right now to do another, but if you decide to have a go yourself, I’m more than happy to help you out in a sort of advisory way - it’s not too difficult once you get your head around the sewing machine bit!! Atb, Simon.
Thanks Simon,
Yes I can understand. I should imagine it is quite a time consuming project. Anyway, your video has given me food for thought.
Thanks once again
Sandy
Simon, a bloke in the woods sorry to but in this conversation, I would love to try adding the skirt mod to the bottom of my lavvu, would you have any more guidance on how many spare lavvu you bought? Ways to utilise the material etc. I think I’ll manage the sewing it is the template of the material I will struggle with.
Wild Camping NI - Thanks for watching! Sure, more than happy to help out! I bought one extra lavvu as a doner for material. I marked out strips of canvas from the triangular panels (300nm wide) some strips were longer than others - I just marked out the biggest I could get. Cut them out and sew them end to end making a long strip- longer than the circumference of the lavvu. I then hemmed this along each long edge. I sewed the side wall to the lavvu about 50mm in from the bottom edge of the lavvu. Start at any point and keep sewing around until you meet where you started. You can then cut off the excess and sew the ends together making a complete ‘band’. Lastly I reinforced the grommet/attachment points. I hope that makes sense, it’s easier to do than to explain how to do!!! Lol! Good luck! Atb, Simon.
Wow complete transformation man GJ 👍
Love this little tent I was looking for a small canvas tent for canoe camping the mods. you have done are spot on. To that end I have just purchased a lavvu I think my mods will be side walls and door zips, could I ask what thread you use and will a standard sewing machine do the job also what zips would be best? Keep up the great videos much appreciated.
Hi David - thanks! This is a perfect set-up for canoe camping trips, and that’s exactly what I had in mind when I made it. The side walls make a huge difference to the useable space inside! I used big standard Guterman polyester sew-all thread on a normal (albeit old) sewing machine. It worked fine, but struggled a bit with the thicker sections where you are sewing through multiple layers. Persevere though, you make break a few needles, but you’ll get there in the end!! I found the zips on eBay - they are heavy duty ykk ones, otherwise you can recycle a zip from on old sleeping bag - as long as the zip is a good thick one! Old surplus sleeping bags might be a good source! Good luck with the mods - let me know how it comes out! Atb, Simon.
David Still I bought my lavvu from Etsi new for 60 bucks plus 30 bucks shipping, brand new, Etsi is kind of like EBay, check it out!
Simply awesome mods. Wow. Wish I could sew!!!
Wow! I wish all 3 of mine came like that.
After much searching on the lavvu mod's made my day when I watched yours as I orderd an extra poncho for putting a skirt on the bottom but had not really come up with a plan.
nice vids solution works well
how did you stitch the top ?
peter monaghan - Thanks Peter, glad it helped! The top was the most difficult to stitch, I stitched up as high as I could by feeding the two ponchos through my machine, but it got the point where I could get no closer. The last bit I stitched by hand, using thimbles so I could push the needle through the multiple layers, it was a real pain, but is possible. The reinforced 'patch' with the loop on, I had already stitched on first. I hope this makes sense!! Good luck with the mods my friend! Atb, Simon.