If you want a project to do (in regards of lightweight backpacking) try this...

http://www.pcthiker.com/pages/gear/overviewpepsiGstove.shtml

I found this site last week, and have made 10 stoves so far. Only cost is some JB Weld and denatured alcohol ($7 total). I've been having a blast making these in the garage, and can bring 2 cups of water to a boil in less than 5 minutes with less than 1.5 oz of fuel.

I'll never buy another stove again.
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He who sits still in a house all the time may be the greatest vagrant of all... Thoreau