Sewn End Channel Question.

[Trail Runner]

Hello all. I am about to dive into making my own hammocks using a tableclothsfactory.com 60" x 126" tablecloth & a 90" x 132" tablecloth (experimenting with length). In order to preserve as much length as possible I want to sew weight-bearing end channels on them but I'm uncertain what thread I should use and how many rows of stitching I will need to use or even if this method preserves more length than the Knotty/Warbonnet end-gathering method. Any info or suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thanks

[gmcttr]

Sewing in an end channel will use more fabric then simply running a cord through the existing hem to gather the end as done in the "Knotty/Warbonnet end-gathering method"

Generally you fold the end over twice making a wide rolled hem and use three rows of stitching for an end channel. Any good quality 100% polyester thread will work. I prefer a slightly stronger thread like Gutermann Mara 70.

[MAD777]

The Warbonnet end uses the least fabric. I prefer that style anyway because it's easier to remove your suspension if you need to.

[Grizhicks]

Hello all. I am about to dive into making my own hammocks using a tableclothsfactory.com 60" x 126" tablecloth & a 90" x 132" tablecloth (experimenting with length). In order to preserve as much length as possible I want to sew weight-bearing end channels on them but I'm uncertain what thread I should use and how many rows of stitching I will need to use or even if this method preserves more length than the Knotty/Warbonnet end-gathering method. Any info or suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Are you wanting to run your suspension thru the end channel? or just the gather? I've just made 2 using the same sizes you have listed, and the hem is about 1/4". I was able to run a double mason line thru it (using a plastic sewing needle). Works & looks better that some of the other gathering methods.

But, I really don't like the extra material on the 90" wide (x 132"). I'm new at this, but can not tell/feel a difference in the 126" vs. 132", as far as a length factor.

Good Luck, and let us know how it goes...... Grizhicks

[SilvrSurfr]

I sew a 1.5" channel with three rows of stitching. I stay away from whipping/gathering because the channels provide a more consistent end result.

[Thom]

I sew three lines and I like to use Gutermanns Mara thread. Here is a picture of a hammock being sewn last year.

[Floridahanger]

If you really want a weight bearing channel end to preserve the length, then you want a triple stitch (works best for most people).

Here's the trick. DO NOT gather the end with your cord/strap and cinch tight. Instead use a 2 foot loop. You can also use a mini spreader bar with it. This will allow the fabric to be spread wider apart at the suspension, instead of tight, giving the feel of a longer hammock.

[jrs62284]

I've used 3 lines with regular polyester thread, been good for 3 years now, no signs of wear.

[WV]

You could also minimize the folded fabric by sewing a 6" wide piece of some other strong fabric (e. g. 1.9 ripstop or 2.N supplex) onto the end to make it two layers, and then fold that down 2". I agree with 3 seams for the fold. You should have a seam near the edge of the patched on piece to strengthen the hammock bed. This could be the seam that holds the two pieces together before you fold and sew the channel.

[Trail Runner]

Thanks for all the info folks. My tablecloths came today but I pulled a stupid on the amsteel I ordered from Dutch. I had a set of Whoopie Hooks sent to PapaSmurf a couple weeks ago and when I placed my amsteel order I neglected to change my shipping address back to my home address. So I'll be waiting on the amsteel until next week about this time. In the mean time however, I'm going to try the Warbonnet method on the 126" and sewing end channels on the 132". I am going to trim the width on the 132" down to 70" as well. If that still seems too wide I can always make it slimmer.

One question though... tableclothsfactory.com says to hand wash these things... Is that what you folks do or is it okay to wash in a front-load washer?

Thanks