Florida Introductions

**bayview** · 11-09-2013, 11:27

I have been surfing this site for over a year looking at things, hints, and projects and after the ultimate hang, decided to join. I am an avid hanger that has only recently gotten into the diy projects. I have done whoopies and started with tablecloth hammocks. Now I am realizing I need to practice my skills at sewing.

I am a Scout Master in a Troop in St Augustine and the boys are wanting to build their own hammocks. I even did a presentation at our recent Scoutmaster Roundtable on hammock safety and LNT. Anyone in the area that can offer advice or assistance with creating an underquilt would be greatly appreciated as my sewing skills suck.

**hangNyak** · 11-09-2013, 11:41

Wecome from St. Pete,FL! I was no Martha Stewart, either. Just jump right in and give it a shot. You'll be suuprised at how easy it is. Just practice sewing on some scrap material first. Be sure and post pics of your projects. Good luck!!

**YeahIdIDThat** · 11-09-2013, 12:57

Welcome to the forums..

Take a look at the diy section.. A bunch of good info you could learn from.

Good luck !

**olddog** · 11-10-2013, 12:31

Welcome aboard from Lakeland.

**MAD777** · 11-10-2013, 16:00

Welcome from South Florida.
Remember that your gear doesn't necessarily have to look good, just fulfill it's function.

**FLRider** · 11-12-2013, 13:09

Welcome from Gainesville!

The difficulty on making an underquilt is really dependent upon the materials you use. A Climashield APEX quilt is as easy as being able to sew straight lines and measure properly. Down is...more challenging. I wouldn't choose a down quilt as a first project; on the other hand, it isn't something to be afraid of, either.

Definitely practice with scrap fabric (the specific kind you're going to be working with on your quilt[s]) before going ahead with the big project. Make sure that you have your thread tension dialed in, and that you're familiar with the steps needed to do hems and seams.

Other than that, have fun! If it passes the three-foot rule (i.e.: if no one can tell it wasn't commercially made from three feet away), you're doing great. But MAD777 was absolutely right in that it don't have to be pretty, just functional.

If you run into any specific problems, please feel free to PM me. I may not have an answer, but I usually have a place to start looking for one.

Hope it helps!

**Hillbilly Deluxe** · 11-12-2013, 13:40

Welcome to HF from chilly MN, enjoy what is offered

**Simpleman** · 11-12-2013, 21:25

Welcome, I'm Learning to sew while making DIY hammock, it doesn't sound right but somehow it's all coming together experience is the best teacher.

**Floridahanger** · 11-12-2013, 21:32

A warm welcome from a little further to the South.

DIY is not an artform for our gear, it's about you having fun and making it yourself.
When you get the "bug", you'll soon be making a lot.

And, before you know it, others will be calling it artwork.

Have fun and hope to see you at 4th Annual Florida Hang.