I am trying to decide which method to use for creating an ~56-60" x 42-44" ish underquilt from a costco throw.
I am seeking thought on which might be warmer...
Shaking and Moving the down from part of the full throw into one side and ditching excess fabric (scroll to underquilt-step 1 on link) OR Costco Differential Cut 3/4 UQ with Faux Baffles
Basically, is a better constructed quilt more important than having extra down?
Thoughts?
What I can tell you (based on personal experience) is that sewing faux baffles makes the quilt loft much better, and negates the sewn-through construction- which in theory leads to less cold spots. I've had my CDT down to 39 degrees, and was still warm (I am a warm sleeper though). Your mileage may vary. I did not shorten my quilt either.
Why not utilize both methods? Rip the horizontal seams- leaving the vertical channels. Then shake the down to one side, sew a line to mark the new length, then cut off the excess fabric. Then sew faux baffles to decrease the width. This would give you the best of both worlds, and would probably give you a very warm 3/4 length UQ. If I had to do it again, I would probably do it this way.
Depends on HOW you are going to use th quilt. Construction is the key to quality and function.
I go into some harsh conditions, I KNOW MY GEAR COULD BE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH. I opt for high function (quality).
If you just use your gear some times, under easy conditions then whatever is just fine.
I have little neighbor kids that come and camp with me, we all use our home made gear. The kids think they are big time. We are within 100 feet of my house. Really safe. I would never ever use that gear for going into the bush, where my life might depend on my gear. However we have a great time play camping. Minimal $ maximum fun.
Last edited by IRONFISH45; 11-01-2017 at 09:52.
Originally Posted by rweb82
this is probably the best answer
I've done 2 of the three
first one, I just seam ripped horizontal and was amazed at how much better it was
2nd one I did, i also did the faux baffles, and it eliminated cold spots. there's not enough down in them (imo) to make it super effective way below freezing, but if you layer 2 of them, they're ok
if you're just looking to get to freezing tho, in my experience, a CDT will work just fine if you seam rip and/or faux baffles
Given the time to sew the faux baffles, I opted to use two CDT quilts....
Reduced the size of both to 45" x 60" to concentrate the down,
and then offset the baffles to eliminate the cold spots (align the center of the chamber of one, with the sew through of the other).
Seems to work well, but I've only taken it down to a bit below 40 so far.
This is pretty much exactly what I did too. I think 45 is a better number than I used though. Mine was supposed to be about 43 but ended up being a little less I think. Still works well.
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If you're willing to put that much work into sewing, you might just consider going all the way and making a quilt from scratch.
One of the drawbacks to CDTs is that the fabric is water absorbent.
I cannot speak for the OP... but I am looking at making one from scratch.
The quality of the finished product will be better.
That said - the amount of sewing to make a dual layer CDT was fairly minimal, and the down was mostly self contained.
For me, it served well as an introductory underquit.
It gave me a platform to learn on before jumping into a DIY Underquilt.
FWIW - I also made my first UQ using the Costco BD blanket. While it was a great experience (even added more down...what a mess), I highly suggest just buying one of quality if you plan to use it below 50F(note- I do not like to sleep in base-layers as many do). While I thought it performed well, it does not even begin to compared to the Hammock Gear Incubator I now use. Just my two cents.
Last edited by clusterone; 11-02-2017 at 15:39.
Have to agree. They absorb moisture like a sponge, right out of the air. As one who has put far too much time into converting CDT's, and I halted when I started considering the faux baffles, I maintain the point of view that they are nothing more than a cheap alternative till you can afford something better. Yes, it has been a great learning experience, so there is that. I reason that if I were ever tempted to do more with these than I've already done, I'd be better off starting from scratch and wind up with a far far better product that is more effective.
Another thing I think some folks overlook is the increased weight when going double layers compared to a single layer higer rated quilt. Now you have 4 layers of fabric vs 2, plus double the grosgrain or any other supsension components if applicable. Generally, a commercial or properly made DIY quilt will have better materials, will be lighter and warmer (due to baffles if nothing else).
My point is not to be discouraging but rather, just don't let yourself get carried away by try to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. CDT's are ok for what they are, but no more.
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