Does it really matter what thread is used when making a hammock? Can you use regular thread or do you HAVE TO use 100% polyester thread?
Printable View
Does it really matter what thread is used when making a hammock? Can you use regular thread or do you HAVE TO use 100% polyester thread?
Here's the cons to using other materials of thread.
Cotton:
-- Degrades in the presence of moisture (very present in the outdoors :D )
-- weaker than other fibers
Nylon:
-- stretches, most sewing machines have trouble with it
-- UV resistance not as good as polyester
Polyester:
++ doesn't stretch
++ doesn't degrade in UV
++ stronger
Hope that helps,
PF
What PF said....
If you're ordering materials, DIY Gearsupply has great 1.1 nylon seconds cheap, and good quality thread.
I've had issues with cheap thread, now I only buy gutterman's...
Its not completely necessary but for the reasons stated above its the clear choice. I got a spool of black (cone shaped for surgers) and it has lasted me the last 6 years. I have used other colors and what not but when I make test gear and color doesn't matter or I need black I use that. It has by far paid for itself.
Another thing to think about. Do you but a new car and put recap tires on it. The philosophy I live by "Good meat ain't cheap and cheap meat ain't good" - applies to everything
100% polyester thread will be available at your local sewing store and will be better then the other threads you are contemplating using. Just get it.
The perfect answer. When dealing with outdoor materials, I'm a fan of polyester. Not mentioned is it handles abrasion extremely well, too, though that's not as big a deal with thread as with some other items (like webbing!).Quote:
Originally Posted by PuckerFactor
Why go through all the work only to skimp on thread? 100% polyester is easy enough to find.
You can also find polyester thread from the majors (Coats and Clark?) at some fabric stores which is labeled as treated to resist UV, and in more than one color.
Don't strip this, mods, as off-topic, for asking here why I cannot safely hand-sew with heavy- weight nylon, the only heavy thread I was confident one night at Walmart did not have some cotton in it. I understand nylon is not to be used in machines by those who have not set up their machines for the properties of (stretchy) nylon. Nylon thread bad? I thought there was a claim it swelled a little when wet, self-plugging stitch holes.
If you REALLY want a great thread that is 100% uv resistant... "Tenara" thread... it is what they use when they sew the space suits for the space station...VERY durable. I use it when I make boat covers and bimini tops etc...
Down side... pricey!!!! 4oz. spool $100.00
Happy hangin...
Great thread, I was wondering about this myself.