Originally Posted by
Catavarie
Gutterman is the thread recommended most. Although I just look for a good polyester thread if that's not available. Definitely no cotton thread, will only rot and mildew giving your hammock a bad smell before it inevitably falls apart.
For your first time I'd suggest just going with a simple folded hem around the edges, it's a good skill to work on and looks good. Also I think the folded hem will be easier to later attach a zipper,for bug netting, to as well.
And I personally wouldn't recommend a non-breathable layer attached to a hammock at any point, unless of course you want to have a sweat logged hammock and insulation. Instead go for a weather shield, which hangs under and around your hammock.
Just my two cents worth.