I know this doesn't exactly relate to climbing, but it does indirectly. A couple of my buddies and I have been working on a tent design, and are looking for a company who is willing to make a small batch of tents.

Any of you have any experience designing your own gear?

You may have some luck with a sail maker. After being in a few high quality tents I am always amazed at the similar construction techniques sail makers and tent makers use.

Lots of these guys that manufacture or got caught up in it, if only because they couldn't find what they wanted on the market, are probably willing to deal with you (I think I've heard of small companies that do custom builds) but then, if they can do it, so can you. learn to sew. get on it.

did that get in there . . . I'm talking about researching the ultra-lite hiker/tent manufactures. They started in their garages.

Western Mountaineering makes their own stuff, not sure if they can help.