Pannierization

[darkemeralds]

What I got on eBay:

A "vintage" (I'm guessing mid-90s) leather briefcase in great condition for pretty cheap.

What I did to it:

Added a positive-tension holding system consisting of stuff I found at the hardware store and in my sewing box: hooks, a hidden bungee cord, an O-ring, some grommets, and some internal supports. And a light.

Why:

Ta-da! Briefcase pannier! Easily holds my netbook, my wallet, my phone, Clyde's lock, and a sandwich.

The O-ring hooks onto the bottom of the rack, the hooks go on the top, the bungee pulls them toward each other so it stays on, but I can lift it right off and twist the hooks down inside the pocket. Will test it out tomorrow on the commute. Possibly not with my netbook and phone inside just yet--you know, in case my positive tension holding system isn't all I imagine it to be.