Nice! I'd be interested in some detail shots of the handlebar harness when you have the time.
You asked for it!
So first I scoured this site as well as rest of the internet for ideas and settled on a design that involves strapes being webbed through a harness and around the handlebars as there was now sewing. This way I could use the materials I have lying around the shop.
First step was to make sure it would work. I made a basic mock up out of cardboard and simulated bars and a bag with materials I had close at hand.
*EDIT*: Forgot to post a picture of the first lifesize mock up which I used to map out the strap hole spacings and general shape of the working mock up. It's below the black plastic picture and out of sequence:(
Once I was convinced my ideas would work I cut up another rough mock up with the actual material I would be using and experimented with scrap stapping of various widths and wrap configurations. I used this mock up to strap to my bars and try different stabalizing methods. The cuts in the centre were for running a strap through and around my headtube. I ended up running the straps under my forks and up to the front which works amazingly. The center cut holes were still usefull as I use them for the 2" hoizontal strap which is I suspect more of a safety feature than anything else . It keeps the bag inside the harness from moving side to side and helps take off some stress from the buckles. It may be overkill but could come in handy in ways I haven't thought of yet so it stays.
