Hem the fabric edge for a hammock?

[Ramblinrev]

I tried melting edges on my project. Could not tell if I was doing any good. Should it appear melted when you got it right? I was afraid I was going to get a fire going and burn the house down...

A melted edge does not need to "appear" melted. If you do it right it will seal the edges but only feel a bit hardened. The sealed edge will not add strength as above. It only prevents raveling. In fact too much of a sear and you will clump the fabric causing it to crack when flexed and you have introduced a weak spot despite your efforts.