Hi -

I am new to sewing my own gear, but a I figured a sleeping bag liner is an easier place to start dusting off my sewing skills. I have a silk liner for the summer and shoulder seasons, but am looking to make a warmer one for this winter. I was planning to use fleece but the array of fabric options was a bit dizzying. Do folks have a recommendation on what type would be best to use or would you recommend a material other than fleece?

Thanks!

Well first, congrats on getting sewing. A liner is a good start. A couple thought that come to mind - and these are just my opinions so others may differ. I think fleece would work for you for a liner. My bias is the the best fleece is Polartec brand, and it comes in 100, 200, and 300 weights, plus a few other options. The only downside I can think of is fleece doesn’t compress really well. The main fabric/diy online stores will sell it, and it’s sometimes found on Amazon but I’d be cautious about that. I ordered some Polartec 200 from a seller on Amazon and I swear it was fake and sent it back.

If you think your skills are up to it, try making it a mummy shape so it will cover your head and cinch up around your face.

I have used a nylon quilted fabric from Joanne Fabric, pretty easy to work with. I used both my regular sewing machine and my serger. The serger works really well. It is not a very heavy weight fabric but it is at least as warm as fleece and compresses well. I also use the same fabric to make hammock under quilts. Send me an email and we can chat about options and methods.

Thanks for the feedback and recommendations. I am looking to make it in a mummy shape as well as including a zipper to make it easier to get in/out of. My silk one is just a square tube and requires more maneuvering than I would like to get in and out. I'll drop you a line Grandma L.