Drawcord Channel question

**nathan.custer** · 05-10-2013, 11:08

Getting ready to tackle my first apex topquilt. What are everyone's thoughts on the drawcord channel for top and bottom? The 2 tutorials that I've ready are completely different and I'm not sure which route would be the easiest/best/most recommended.
Just rolling the seam like here: http://lytw8.com/uploads/LytW8_Summe...structions.pdf

Or using a separate piece of fabric like here:
http://kringlelight.files.wordpress....in50_guide.pdf

Or maybe even a separate piece of fabric sewn just to the top shell about 1-2" down from the top.

**FBG** · 05-10-2013, 14:42

I think it's a matter of preference as either way will work just fine.

When I modified a sleeping bag into an UQ I rolled all the seam channels - top, bottom and sides. I found it easier because I was in a hurry and didn't have the time, or the gumption, to fiddle with an extra piece of material and all the pinning involved. Plus, really I didn't have enough grosgrain ribbon to do all four channels properly.

Now, when I sit down to make quilts for the kids I have every intention of sewing ribbon for the channels, if for no other reason than being able to change the color of the ribbon to tell the otherwise identical quilts apart.

It's really up to you and what you think is most cost effective and matches your skill level.

Good luck!

**mrstop** · 05-11-2013, 09:41

I just made a topquilt with primaloft and used a separate piece of fabric. I cut it 3" wide and to the width of the quilt + seam allowances. I folded it over and aligned it to my 1" seam allowance. This gave a finished channel of ~ 1/2" and allows the cord to slide nicely. Note that I sewed mine using the "inside out method."

The drawstrings run through grommets. The head drawstring runs through a single grommet located at the center of the outer panel. The foot drawstring runs through two grommets placed at both ends of the foot. I reinforced the fabric where the grommets were placed with Tenacious Tape.

The drawcords run nice and easy. Hope this helps!