Questions From a Noob !

[V8Mondo]

Hello Everyone,

This is a great site with a good community feel...Great!

I am into the Bushcraft/survival thing and I am a wannabe leathercrafter too

My interest in Hammocks came about by chance - seeing more and more people using them in the field and carrying less load, sleeping better and looking cool in the process

I have some questions that maybe you can answer...???

I am interested in designing and making hammocks - my wife is a dab hand at making all home fabrics, so I have the labour in place already

Anyway, please can you tell me where I can get nylon fabric in bulk?
I know I can get it in China...not sure I want to go there yet...

Second, how does a 'canvas' hammock stack up apart from the obvious extra weight issue?

I understand that parachord is not any use for hjamocks, so what is the best line to use for a)the hammock suspension? b) the tarp?

Told you I was a noob!!! Anyway any suggestions would be great and I hope to be able to join in and get to know you guys along the way.

Thanks in advance,

Ray

[stretch]

Hello and welcome. Check this site out, should answer most of your questions.
http://www.tothewoods.net/

[Rushthezeppelin]

Also Thru-hiker.com and Ed Speers site has alot of good DIY material.

[sclittlefield]

Here are a few more places to check for fabric:

http://www.owfinc.com/
http://www.questoutfitters.com/
http://www.therainshed.com/
http://www.noahlamport.com/ - this one is not obvious on the website, probably give them a call. People report good buys on sil-nylon 2nds here.

As for what materials to use - stick to synthetics: nylon or polyester. Stay clear of cotton. It is a horrible fabric in the outdoors.