Down Underquilt Question

[willswim]

Are most DIY differential down underquilt rectangular, without pleats/darts, and without a tapered end?

I am in the process of making one and have a chance to add pleats/darts or a taper before I start sewing...is it necessary?

Or do most people snug it up using shock cords on all four sides of the rectangle?

[rip waverly]

a lot of different options, nothing steadfast

depends on intended use, hammock style, etc.

someone with more diy will chime in...........

[Alamosa]

Mine is rectangle as it was easier to make (very important for my skill set) and provided more options if I need to use it as a TQ, go to ground, etc.

After using it the first half of winter, I do notice that there are air pockets at the head and foot just inside the gathered end. Haven't noticed any issues that are specifically attributed to it, but I am thinking that a more tapered shape would probably take care of this.

This could be a case of "the grass is greener..." though, as I don't know what issues I would have if it was tapered.

[RootCause]

I think that a couple people have added "draft tubes" (really "draft stopper tubes") on the ends of their non-darted UQs to make up for those air pockets.

[willswim]

if it matters I have a wb bb 1.1 double.