Ripstop Polyester Source?

**JerryW** · 08-16-2009, 17:22

I'm thinking about starting on my second DIY hammock and was thinking about using polyester since it doesn't stretch like nylon.

Does anyone have a source for ripstop polyester?

I've seen it referenced a time or two, but can't find any place online that sells it.

Would there be some other type of polyester that would be suitable for a hammock?

Should I even be pursuing this or is ripstop nylon the best material for the job?

Thanks - Jerry

**Ramblinrev** · 08-16-2009, 17:34

Polyester taffeta is easily up to the task. That's what my home sleeper is made of. Seems to me a lot of commercial hammocks are now made in polyester taffeta. Very reasonable choice.

**TiredFeet** · 08-16-2009, 18:42

Outdoor Wilderness Fabrics has 2 microfiber polyesters - second from the bottom. I have no idea of the fabric weight of either of these. You could probably call and see if they know.

We use only microfiber polyester for our Bridges anymore and love it. Much softer than nylon while providing a firm support. We like it much better than the stretchiness of nylon.

Also, Rockywoods has a Microfiber ripstop. We have used this and the weight is exactly as they quote and it feels really good.

**dblhmmck** · 08-17-2009, 01:15

Outdoor Wilderness Fabrics has 2 microfiber polyesters - second from the bottom. I have no idea of the fabric weight of either of these. You could probably call and see if they know.

I bought some of the polyester ripstop from owf recently. It was the bottom of the two listings, "charcoal" color. It weghed out at 4.56 ounces per square yard. It feels much heavier than what I usually work with, and it has no shinyness like nylon ripstop. The ripstop part of the weave is kind of raised giving it an embossed look and feel. I don't know if the texture will accomodate easy tossing and turning like slippery nylon does (I doubt that it will pose much of a problem). I think it will make a nice patio hammock for home use, that's what I intend to use it for.

**gargoyle** · 08-17-2009, 05:53

Have you tried your local fabric store or Wallyworld? My wally's still got lots of fabric and my local sewing/fabric store (joanns) has tons of pricey fabric. But the cost is comparable to online merchandise, when you include shipping and handling. And I can get a "feel" for the fabric before buying.

**JerryW** · 08-17-2009, 08:39

Unfortunately all the Walmarts around here don't sell fabric anymore. I plan to stop at Jo-Ann Fabrics this week and see if they have the taffeta. That's where I got the ripstop nylon I used for my first hammock.

Thanks for the suggestions.

Jerry