My New Hammock, A little Help Needed

**bgraybackpacker** · 05-29-2011, 20:56

Hello All. So I recently got to the end of my hammock project and am currently searching the forums for tips on installing the noseeum on top. The black around the outside is the zipper already attached. It heads straight around to the edges of the WBBB style shelf so I can go almost completely topless if I wanted to. The triangles at each end are cut on the bias to stretch with the whipped end of the hammock.

Any hints, tips or referrals to resources on the next step will be helpful.

**creativeKayt** · 05-30-2011, 01:10

I would start with some cheap fabric to make a pattern (i.e., an old bedsheet you were planning to throw out, etc.). Set up your hammock and put some weight in it (maybe have a friend who is roughly your size take a nap while you work). Drape your pattern-making fabric over and start pinning and/or marking where it would attach to the hammock. When you pull it off, your pinning/marking will likely be a little like a drunken sailor, but you can even things up and smooth out your lines. Don't forget to allow for seam allowance all the way around, too. Once you have your pattern drawn up and you've double-checked yourself, you can cut out your noseeum fabric. Do a test fit to be sure you've got it and when you feel good, start stitching.

I can't wait to see it! You've done a great job so far!
Congrats on your good work.

**JohnSawyer** · 05-30-2011, 01:41

I use safety pins, about every 6"-10". Get in and test. Adjust where you think it's too tight. Slightly loose net is better than too tight.

My only problem with netting is it tends to stretch as you sew it. So I generally sew from one end of the hammock, and do 2/3rds of the length, then do the other side.

I also end up adding darts or gathers where I fold over a small (1/4" piece of netting and sew it down.

You can see that here: (left-side)

This one was made before I figured out to do only 2/3rds on each side to keep it even. I ended up with about 4" too much netting to sew down.

Like Kayt said, after you have it pinned like you want, rough cut it, then cleanup your lines. I get lazy, and rough-cut, then sewed, and then trimmed. This makes a nice clean net, but the trimming is hard, as I'm afraid I might cut my hammock body. (Fray Check works great if you do!)

Hope this helps!

John