VIDEO: Klaussinator's DIY Tree Shelf

**Klaussinator** · 06-04-2013, 12:45

Well I found some time about a week ago to get out and enjoy a few hours of gear testing, mainly to put my new tree shelf through it's paces.

It did great. Here's what I learned:
- It's stronger and sturdier than I expected. I found I can hang my kitchen bag from it, which makes things really convenient.
- It will work with a windbreak just like the one I made for ground use.
- Seems to have a big enough work space to be practical.

Here are some pics of my new favorite gear testing location . . .

And the tree shelf in action . . .

Ummm, cinnamon-honey bannock!

To make the windbreak work, I just put it between the shelf and the tree, and then used some little saplings to spring the sides out. It worked great, but I might try to design a new windbreak just for this shelf system. Maybe build in some lightweight spring-arms to hold it out.

-Klauss

**Klaussinator** · 06-04-2013, 12:49

Forgot to include this pic -(taken from the hammock) of a leaf that landed on top of the tarp. Just thought it might help anyone who thinks Taslite is thick like canvas -- No Way!

-Klauss

**Klaussinator** · 06-04-2013, 22:48

For the few interested persons who PM'd me about making these, I'm waiting for metal costs from friends at a local welding shop on both aluminum & titanium sheets.
We'll see if it ends up being cost effective or prohibitive....

-Klauss

**MedicineMan** · 06-05-2013, 01:27

Seconding Mountnman's request.
Can't say I'd use it backpacking but paddle camping yes.

**mountainhanger** · 06-05-2013, 06:56

nice job, will keep an eye out for this

**old4hats** · 06-05-2013, 07:25

I like the idea, I'm all about getting my stove to where I don't have to get on the ground with it. I really don't mind getting on the ground, but regaining my feet can become quite an adventure, lol.

**Not_Yet** · 06-05-2013, 08:43

I love this concept! Could you just use a 2nd strap instead of the "spikes"?

**Klaussinator** · 06-05-2013, 09:58

Originally Posted by Not_Yet

I love this concept! Could you just use a 2nd strap instead of the "spikes"?

Yes you could, and that's originally what I was thinking. Problem is the curvature of the tree - and that varies from small round to almost flat depending how big the tree.

The tree spikes act as stand-offs so the flat metal where the hinge is can fit securely against any size tree without rolling side-to-side or shifting. They don't need to penetrate the bark, only stick into it enough to grip.

-Klauss

**Not_Yet** · 06-05-2013, 12:32

Klauss,

That makes perfect sense.

So on mine I could just cut the back of the shelf with a deep arc to create the two "points" ... that will require a "min." size tree but will reduce the total number of parts and pieces so for me it should be a far trade off.

So I am thinking I could do this with a single sheet/piece of aluminum, 1 strap and 2 cables... Very cool stuff.

**Klaussinator** · 06-05-2013, 12:48

Originally Posted by Not_Yet

Klauss,

That makes perfect sense.

So on mine I could just cut the back of the shelf with a deep arc to create the two "points" ... that will require a "min." size tree but will reduce the total number of parts and pieces so for me it should be a far trade off.

So I am thinking I could do this with a single sheet/piece of aluminum, 1 strap and 2 cables... Very cool stuff.

I'm missing something...
What would you attach the strap & cables to if you only have the bottom surface? Two points of contact on the tree won't handle much load from stuff you place on the shelf. If I throw 10lbs on my shelf, half of that load goes thru the hinge, up the vertical piece, and into the tree by way of the strap. The other half goes up the tension cables to the tree strap. My two points of contact (the spikes) don't handle any of the down-weight.

I love your brainstorm - maybe I just don't follow . . .

-Klauss