I am planning a DIY hammock. I have been researching fabrics & mods and would like feedback to help me along.
Requirements
User Build: 6'3" tall, 275 lbs
Objective: I am aiming for comfort and durability. I would prefer for the hammock to support 400 lbs or better in case my wife or children want to join me. I will tend towards high value, meaning I don't mind spending more for better results, but want to avoid spending more where there is little gain.
Needs: Given my build and case studies from other users, I feel I should shoot for a long, wide, double layer hammock. Because I am in the south, I also need to consider bug net options.
Specification: 12" long, 6' wide, double 1.6oz nylon.
Hammock Fabric: The leading fabric on my list (and the catalyst for my current specifications) is the HyperD XL from RipStopByTheRoll (1.6oz 40D 72" @ $6.95/yd).
Bug Net Fabric: Noseeum Mesh from RipStopByTheRoll (0.9oz 20D 54" @ $3.00/yd).
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Fabric Questions
FQ1: Is the quality of HyperD worth the extra cost over standard nylon options?
FQ2: HyperD XL is attractive because it is 72" wide. The widest I have found otherwise is 67.5" wide (HEX70 XL - 2.2oz 70D @5.50/yd), and standard 60" wide (Nylon - 1.9oz 70D @ $3.85/yd or HyperD - 1.6oz 40D @ $5.50). Have I missed some options without having to add side panels? Or is 72" really overkill?
FQ3: I mentioned HEX70 XL as an alternative. Is this fabric a good choice for a hammock (softness/durability balance)? How much weight could it safely/comfortably take at 2.2oz (could I get away with 1 layer)?
FQ4: It seems that the 0.9oz Noseem Mesh would be sufficient for my needs. There is smaller, but it seems the only advantage is to go ultralight. Does this seem correct?
General Questions
GQ1: My fabric selections are pretty pricey since I am having to go double layer to support my build. $6.95 (HyperD XL) x 8 yds = $55.60; $3.00 (Noseem Mesh) x 8 yds = $24.00; $79.60 (Total). Any suggestions on where I might improve value, or is this realistic?
GQ2: If I were to pair 2 fabrics for the different layers to save some money, how might the pairing impact each other (e.g. HyperD for inner layer with standard nylon as outer layer).
GQ3: Besides the basic hammock body construction and suspension attachment, what are some common build options to consider? I already have Knotty's stretch-side mod on my radar. I am particularly interested in ideas on storing gear while in the hammock. My preference would be to avoid mods that force a particular left or right lay.
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