I've been searching for info and discussion on shroud lines on hammocks here and on the web without luck so I thought I'd start a thread.
First of all, I'm not even sure they are called shroud lines. I'm talking about the lines that go between the hammock fabric and the suspension lines. My old hammock has 10 double lines on each end about 18" long. I wonder if these are called something else and the reason I can't find info on them is because I'm searching the wrong term. If so could someone please point me in the right direction.
I'm considering making my own DIY design for my second hammock (first DIY) and have been wondering about using shroud lines. A little background, I'm new to hanging (I've had a hammock for many years that I used for occasional lounging around camp but have yet to spend a night in a hammock), but I've done plenty of gear making and modifying usually with good results. Shroud lines don't seam to be all that popular here so I was wondering why? What are the plusses and minuses? How would I determine the needed working load of these lines?
The way I see it the pluses would be
• less critical tarp coverage at the ends as any water would just pass through or be handled by drip lines.
• It would make the material effectively longer than what you have.
• Lines could be adjusted individually to effect the lay.
• Could decrease weight
And, minuses
• easily tangled.
• significantly more difficult to attach and possible weak spots at joints.
• could increase weight.
I simply have no idea on the weight issue although I suspect it would be just slightly heavier. Another question, how many lines would actually be under load? When sitting on my hammock it seams that as few as 6-8 pairs are loaded, and some less than others. When lying most of the lines bear some load but the ones supporting my feet are far less so. I'm really hoping some of you scientists and mathematicians [edit(as well as anyone else)]out there will have some good info for me.:) Thanks so much for your help!