Convertible footbox for quilt

[Benjamin Smith]

I’m almost done with my down quilt, and the project is coming much better than expected. JacksRBetter and some others seem to prefer Omni-tape instead of zippers for the convertible footbox – why is that?

Ben

[john Tier]

Omni tape will not tear or place excess wear on hammock bottoms like a zipper on a bag left open as a quilt…it is as light or lighter than most ykk zippers…does not risk mechanical failure…does not load up with lint or thread like regular velcro…is not excessively scratchy like regular velcro…

Pan

[Vick Hines]

The only problem with Omnitape is that it’s release strength is lower than that of regular Velcro. You can improve its performance by leaving an inch of tape loose – instead of stitching the whole length down. Two good places to do this are at the leg end of the tape (the ‘top’)and at the foot where it takes a 90 degree turn. The loose tape resists separating better than firmly stitched tape.

[Eric Noble]

Thanks for the tip, Vick. I was thinking of adding a snap to keep the Omnitape on my No Sniveller from separating. Your idea is much better.

[Vick Hines]

A snap will work, too. However, it will make a lump that you may get tired of rolling over. At least, that’s my experience. A button is another choice.

I have used Omnitape a good bit since Pan turned me on to it. It’s not perfect, but has all the advantages he mentions.

[Benjamin Smith]

Vick, your solution seems pretty slick. Unfortunately, I just went ahead and sewed the Omnitape on solidly before I got any response to my original post. What can I say – itchy trigger finger. I’m really happy with how the quilt is turning out.

Ben

[Vick Hines]

Dog, you fast. Congrats on finishing the project. Fun, huh?
If the omnitape starts separating on you and you can’t live with it, you can do the old double velcro trick: a flap of velcro that mates to a patch of velcro to seal the end of the tape to keep it from releasing easily. Buttons are also simple and reliable, and stronger than snaps.

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