This is actually my second DIY hammock. I used about 9.5 yds of "sports nylon" fabric (~59" wide) from Walmart ($2.50/yd). I folded the fabric in half long-ways so I would have a 2x layer of material. The long edges were double hemmed at 3/8-1/2" ((correct terminology ?) 1/2" fold then 1/2" fold again and then sewn.
I made a channel in each of the short edges by folding over 6" of material and then sewing 5 lines of stitches across the entire span. I started the lines of stitching nearest to the raw edge and spaced them apart by about 1/4"in, creating ~2+" dia channel.
The first DIY has supported 400 lbs with no jostling and I expect the same from the 2nd generation. Both hammocks are quite comfortable!
I also plan to sew in a 5" linear channel about 48" from one end so i can use the hammock as a hammock chair (thanks to EconoChallenge for the idea). Multi-purpose everything!!
Characteristics:
Gathered or channel suspension (depends on my supplies or whim)
Finished size: 120" x 57"
Ridge-line ~ 109"
Rigid pole, Top rail of cyclone fence-- cut into 3 pieces, with one coupler
Knots I used for this setup:
a prusik knot for the suspension of the ridged pole to the vertical upright.
Lark's head for the ridged pole to the hammock
Whipping on the edges of the hammock
Stable for sleeping but I wouldn't trust it for any lateral sway.
Inspirations:
EconoChallenge (youtube)
Just Jeff's Hiking Page
The Ultimate Hang
Fronkey
Knotty
Sgt Rock
ProfessorHammock (youtube)
Headchange4u
Duffy
Samsara
Olddog
Turtlelady
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