Building your own:

http://www.paddling.net/sameboat/archives/sameboat665.html

I have never found much use for a sewing kit while hiking/backpacking. Maybe I've just been lucky. Duct tape and paracord have always be fine stand-ins for needle and thread for me thus far. But then, I've never been on a three month expedition either.

I think originally this was more of an awl type repair kit for climbers. The days before duct tape, super glue, and other hi-tech repair materials.

I have, and use, one of the original kits. I understand they are now cherished by collectors. I have found them to be very useful, and the weight and bulk are miniscule. Super glue and duct tape are handy, as well, but some items are best repaired or modified with needle and thread.

It is fairly easy to assemble your own, perfectly functional version at any sewing shop, except for the very nice,tiny awl. You will be glad you have that when you rip something major,like a pack strap.

And inner strands from paracord are good to use as sewing thread for that. Just need a big enough needle with big enough eye.

Interesting...I am adding a sewing kit to my edc and camping kits. Though safety pins would fix most things.

I have one of the original Chouinard Expedition Sewing Kits, I really like the design. Bought it from Campmor in the early eighties I think. It was tucked away with some of my gear and went un-noticed (lost) for a while, so I put together several minimal sewing kits based on the British Army issued kit. I have them scattered around and have found them very useful. Not something I carry in pocket all the time but if I have a bag of any kind, it has a sewing kit in it.

While this new Patagonia version is rather pricey, I was shocked to see what the originals are going for.