I may be slow... But I sure am gimpy.
"Bless you child, when you set out to thread a needle don't hold the thread still and fetch the needle up to it; hold the needle still and poke the thread at it; that's the way a woman most always does, but a man always does t'other way."
Mrs. Loftus to Huck Finn
We Don't Sew... We Make Gear! video series
Important thread injector guidelines especially for Newbies
Bobbin Tension - A Personal Viewpoint
My co-worker Eagle Scout Scoutmaster guy is having his troops week up at camp Nash where Hammocks are not allowed for liability reasons.
And outfitting his troop was his question. Enough of a project building hammocks would be, Wally World Tarps would do if time runs low OR if one of the kids parent is in constructions (and really, isn't there always at least one?) Tyvek Tarps would be pretty good.
Firstly, +1 on going with Knotty's DIY gathered-end. IMO, it's a great first project and introduction to hanging, not to mention comfortable. While I haven't used any ripstop outside of that from Joann's or Hancock(use coupons!), it seems that most are recommending a 1.9oz fabric and I would agree. In regards to the diygearsupply tech line you mentioned, I am currently using it as a SRL on both of my hammocks and it works great. However, it is not strong enough for use with suspension. For that, stick to amsteel blue or dynaglide. Lastly, I would also recommend considering a bug sock or other non-attached bug net solution. It can be difficult to attach a bug net to a simple gathered-end, as opposed to hammocks such as the WBBB with its footbox and other additional features. That being said, there are plenty of different hammocks out there with attached nets, so HYOH. Hope this helps and good luck!
--Tim
What? Sounds like he's just trying to be helpful. (he is)
I would highly, HIGHLY recommend shying away from a zippered bugnet system. I made one on my DIY but it was very labor intensive and frustrating (for me, as a new DIYer) if these guys are new to the DIY arena, I would consider a different alternative.
A few of the guys have this great idea: (its how I will make my next bugnet)
http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=29395
I agree That the 1.9 would handle abuse better.
It all comes down to budget. If you want to cut costs, Tech Line is great, but harder to work with than cheap paracord. (works fine as a ridgeline)
Bugnet options abound, so do what's easy. Adding zippers, which snag and tear bugnets can be a pain point.
Here's my thought: After sewing the end-channels sew the ends together for about 8". Make a loop of paracord with double overhand knots for each end as the attachment point for the ridgeline, run this through the middle of the whipping bundle. Ridgelines can then be tied in and adjusted. I use a bowline on one end, and make an adjustable ridgeline with with a piece of mason's line and a prussic knot.
For the bugnet, sew it down one side of the hammock, or even overlap on the other side about 4 to 6 inches. Sew pockets in the loose side of the net and insert rocks to weigh it down. If mosquitos are all you have to deal with, I've had success with Fashion Tulle from Joann's. Regular Tulle is really fragile, this stuff is pretty strong. For cheap no-see-up, Organza is normally a few dollars per yard, and works great. (not good for ventilation on hot nights!) Darker colors allow you to see out better.
Fashion Tulle net: Organza: Suspension is next: again, it's all about cost and time... If making W. Slings is too costly, either get straps or I can supply you with 5/8" Mule tape. It doesn't last forever (trees tend to rash it up a bit) but it's cheap. Let me know how much you need, and I'll send you a bundle.
This thread might help:
http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=22174
"Do or do not, there is no try." -- Yoda
Speer is still selling off his remaining stock of nylon fabric.
1.9 Ripstop Nylon Fabric, Waterproof 70 Denier
Urethane Coating (total weight 2.3 oz/sq yd); 60" wide
Yellow, blue, and gray. $4.35 yd.
http://www.speerhammocks.com/Products/Sale.htm
Ed Speer would know and tell you whether what he has left is best and excellent for hammocks vs tarps.
Last edited by DemostiX; 06-25-2011 at 10:42. Reason: spelling
As someone who did a zipper attached net on my last diy hammock. I would agree it is very labor intensive. It ads cost and weight. If you have the time and supplies doing peak bags or bishop sacks would be a good idea. My first diy had a peak bag which is also the stuff sack by running a cord through the center of the whipping with a carabiner attached. I think these two things would give your scouts enough of a primer on diy. You could provide a tip sheet for anyone wanting to add the integrated bug net later.
Last edited by bgraybackpacker; 06-24-2011 at 20:19. Reason: wrong word
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