Advice on my first DIY hammock

**SC_Dave** · 03-18-2012, 16:46

I guess it's really my second but the first was very crude.

I'm making a gathered end and after reading the info found here including knotty's instruction which was very helpful I had an idea that I wanted to vet here.

I am placing a lot of priority on strength. I'm a big Sasquatch of a guy and I camp not backpack so a little extra weight is ok. So now to the question; I was going to sew in a 1 inch hem on the sides, the idea was to sew in a piece of 1" webbing material for strength and structure........ Now, while this sounds good, is it necessary? Will it help? Or, is it a mistake that I'll wish I had not done?

Other information:

The hammock will be a double using 2.8 plain weave nylon from DIY Gear Supply along with the thread Scott sells. 11 feet long by 54" wide. I have already made my whoopie slings and tree straps. Stiil need to make a pair of toggles but that should be easy enough.

Thanks all
David

**Merganser** · 03-18-2012, 17:39

I would not put e webbing along the edges. You are not lying on them do that isn't where you need structure anyway.

A dl out of that fabric will be plenty strong.

**thepikey** · 03-18-2012, 18:08

I put the webbing in my hammock when I made it. I don't know how much it actually helps with the structure, but in my mind its feel sturdier. It did make sewing the velcro and zippers for the bug net a little harder.

**gmcttr** · 03-18-2012, 18:14

Originally Posted by Merganser

I would not put e webbing along the edges. You are not lying on them do that isn't where you need structure anyway.

A dl out of that fabric will be plenty strong.

That may be the understatement of the week. I agree...no webbing.

**Catavarie** · 03-18-2012, 18:21

Webbing in the edges of a gathered end are somewhat pointless. They may add a bit of structure to the edges to decrease the floppiness (is that even a word?) but that is it. If you look through the threads on making DIY Gathered end hammocks people often mention the floppy sides, this is because the stress is being placed along the middle of the hammock body, where most of your weight is concentrated. Knotty's stretch side mod was developed to fight the floppy sides and to make keeping a TQ in the hammock easier.

And with a double layer of 2.8 your hammock will be able to take a lot of weight. Good luck on your project and take some pics of it for us.

**Knotty** · 03-18-2012, 19:27

I'd have to agree that webbing sewn into the side hems won't increase the strength of the hammock. The best way to make a strong hammock is to use a heavier material.