New DIYourselfer needs advice on converting Sleeping Bag to Underquilt

[JGON]

Hi all,

I've been researching this forum most of the day, and I think I have a sense of direciton for a UQ project, but I need some feedback before I start buying.

I was originally going to buy a New River by AHE, but I'm concerned about that UQ providing enough insulation for the night time temps here in Wisconsin, as it's only rated to 30 degrees. I do not have the funds to buy a down UQ outright, so after reviewing some options, I think I might go a DIY route.

On my local craigslist, there is a 0 degree down mummy bag for sale at a great price. What is typically a $400 bag is selling for less than a hundred bucks. Budget is $150. I just want to make sure that I understand what I'm doing before I purchase this.

I would have to...
*Remove zippers
*Cut seams, resize to correct UQ size
*Re-sew seams
*Add channel tubes on all 4 sides for shock cord
*Insert shock cord and cord locks

What am I missing? How difficult is this for someone with minimal sewing experience?

Thanks,
JGON

[Union41Proud]

I'd be interested in the outcome of this thread. Great question!

[Fish<><]

Paul does custom orders on his quilts. You can add to or take away if that is your only concern. He'd make one rated for 0 if you asked him to...always worth a shot...

[lattie11581]

I had great success with a polargaurd3d north face bag. I measured out the widest part of the bag, cut it and sewed shock cord into the "left over " material around the edges when I re sewed the seams shut. I still use it as a loaner and have been comfy into the 20's (its a 20* bag). Its not any worse for wear now but it was my first so it didn't look awesome to begin with!

I moded a down jacket once.... Only once.... too much down floating around for me. Even after sewing new seams on both sides of the cut. Big PIA ..... YMMV.
Good luck happy sewing. I think you have just about everything covered
Jason

[lattie11581]

I then used the bag zipper to put a side zip mod on my hennessey. 2QZQ style.. so save your parts. They may come in handy.

[JGON]

Paul does custom orders on his quilts. You can add to or take away if that is your only concern. He'd make one rated for 0 if you asked him to...always worth a shot...

I'm assuming Paul is "the man" over at AHE? My only concern is that with a budget of $150, I'm probably not going to be able to get a 0 degree down UQ from him since his 30 degree synthetic bags are in the $150-$160 range.

Lattie- I think I'm along the same philosophy as you in that it may not be the prettiest when I'm done, but hopefully it will do the job!

JGON