Determining Quilt Width

Hi David… The width will depend upon what type of sleeper you are. Moving around and turning often will require a slightly wider quilt, unless you keep it strapped down fairly tight (I don't). Since I was going to use them for both ground sleeping and hammock use, I went with a slightly wider quilt than would have been necessary for only a hammock. From my experience, I'd go with a shoulder width about 12" to 15" less than what you'd choose for a bag, at least until you are able to fine tune the widths. Bear in mind that you may want a slightly wider quilt if it is to be used mainly in winter. In summer I could manage fine with a quite narrow quilt since possible drafts wouldn't come into the equation as much.

Before i bought my Arc Specialist i cut up an old sheet at the 55" width to check if it would suit me. I wore the maximum amount of clothing i would expect to wear under it. As a side sleeper, 55" is as narrow as i would go.

Thanks guys!

John – thanks for the PM.

2nd the above comments. I have an Arc Specialist at 55" and a JRB Shenandoah at 48". I sleep on my stomach and roll over a few times per night. The JRB is just barely wide enough and I will sometimes get a draft. This is okay for the temps it is rated foe(40-45*) For colder temps like with the 32* Specialist, I need the 55" to prevent avy drafts and fit any extra insulation. Safety pins and a bed sheet are great for getting an idea, just remember cotton will 'stick' to you (when you turn) than will quilt material.

Ray Jardin's method is to lie on your side, ie one shoulder down the other up. Measure over your shoulder to the ground on the other side. That would be your minimum width. When you roll over or sleep on your side, you do not want the edges coming up off the ground to create draft.