Instruction: Gathered End Hammock

[GoBucks]

Hey folks,

Relative newbie here looking to make my first DIY gathered end hammock. I'm looking for some guidance on what a "footbox" triangle is? I've seen numerous references to such a thing in the DIY forums and specifically in this gathered end instructional.

Unfortunately, I still don't understand what it is or how to incorporate it into the design of the hammock? I suspect it has something to do with including a concave shape at the ends of the hammock but don't know for sure.

Can someone (Knotty?) please elaborate on the "footbox" triangle?

Thank you!

[Knotty]

Imagine a triangle (right isosceles triangle to be exact) sewn into one side of your hammocks about where your feet lay. You sew the two legs of the triangle to the hammock side edge, effectively making the hypotenuse the new edge. Since the sum of the two legs is greater than the hypotenuse, you've shortened the side of the hammock making it less floppy. Sounds complicated but it's actually very simple once you see it.

[Captn]

If it is a two layer hammock do you sew a triangle in both layers?

Do you sew it into the non entry side to reduce the effect of stress on the edge when you climb in and out?

[Knotty]

It's sewed into the non-entry side. Sitting on the side w the triangle produces a lot of stress.

I haven't done one on a double layer hammock but you would need to sew it to both layers.

[GoBucks]

Thanks Knotty. I appreciate the Illustration, it really helps. So if I understand correctly, I can completely assemble the rectangular, gathered end hammock as you describe in your video and THEN add the footbox triangle afterwards?

Also, as I understand your drawing, are the A + B sides equal in length?

Finally, what's a good size triangle to with? Something like this.....
A = 9"
B= 9"
C = 12.75"

[Knotty]

Yes yes

Yes

I think A and B were about 12" on mine. I do remember that once sewn in the triangle got much smaller than I expected because I underestimated the seam allowances.

[GoBucks]

Thanks Knotty. I think I'm going tackle my first DIY gathered-end hammock next weekend.

Now if I can just figure out a way to incorporate the footbox triangle (for added foot room and to help keep the top quilt from falling out) AND your stretch-side hammock mod (to reduce stress on the outside edge).

Hmmmmm.....I'll see what I can come up with.

Perhaps it will evolve into the "Knotty gathered-end, footbox triangle, stretch-side hammock extraordinaire"

Thanks again for your feedback. I really appreciate it.

[catalyst]

Great instructions. I'll be ordering materials soon to give this a shot. I'm brand new to sewing so some quick (very basic) questions. I'm planning on practicing on some stuff sacks prior to starting the hammock.

What is the width of the rolled hem and how many times did you roll it?

From the pictures it looks like the end channels aren't rolled at all. Is that correct? Are they the same width as the side hem?

Thanks so much.

[Knotty]

catalyst81 - The diagram below shows how a rolled hem is constructed. Some fold and pin. I usually just do it on the fly. For the gathered end hammock the hem isn't too critical and I usually make mine pretty wide because that's easier. Also a wider hem makes it easier to do the Stretch-Side mod. I used the same rolled hem on the sides and ends.

[mountain_man_mike]

+1 to that Knotty... great instructions!


I am torn between making another gathered end or attempt an Inspector Gadget bridge type thing.



A belated Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZ35SOU9HTM