Sewing tree straps.

[gmcttr]

You don't have to agree but you would be wrong...

And I thought I already had my being wrong once for the year out of the way. That's what I get for believing what I've read over and over on the internet.

So....we return you to your previously scheduled programming about sewing end loops on polyester tree straps.

[Firesong]

I didn't realize the sewing length wise was stronger. Looks easier to sew too.

[Mouseskowitz]

The multiple lines does look easy, but it's surprisingly hard to get 100% pass density. Well, it was when my wife and I tried it. Even if you only end up with 70% it'll still work well. My box X still holds me, although I'll never use it for straps again, so double that is great.

I still think that this bar tack pattern done by [O]tter is one of the coolest straps I've ever seen.
Strap.jpg

[Newton]

I just looked at a few of my straps. The ones on my sons hammock I got in a trade has 3 zig zag lines followed by a x box and another zigzag line which covers maybe 3". Now comes the scary news, my bias straps ( at least I think they are) have a square box with an x in the middle and it may be an it looks like its not even an inch squared. After what I am learning I may be a little worried. I have used these since I start hanging and they apear fine, but I am slightly newton challenged. I guess its fine. I may be upgrading some straps in the near future.

I have a few questions about the graphic figure.

What does the percentage figure refer to? Is it a percentage of the tensile strength of the webbing? Does the percentage refer to something else that I am missing here?

FWIW I've done my straps using the boxed X pattern with bar tacks added in-between and bordering the boxed Xs. I've also done them with five simple bar tacks spaced an inch apart. I don't feel the need to run to the sewing machine and make a new set of straps for fear of getting dumped out of my hammock.

I've tested my do it your self straps by hanging my overweight behind in my do it your self hammock using my do it yourself whoopie slings while hanging over my concrete floored patio. I felt secure and heard no creaking, squeaking or thuds.

I plan to experiment with the 100% stitching pattern when and if I get around to sewing another set of straps just for the giggle factor. Cottage gear makers offer these straps using the bar tack pattern and apparently feel comfortable with the ability of their straps to hold the rated load. I take some comfort in that.

If the % rating is percent of "breaking strength", 66% of 1500 pounds = 990 pounds. That is over 4.5 times my body weight.

To put it terms that Sgt. Rock would understand, "I ain't dead yet!".

[Mouseskowitz]

Is it a percentage of the tensile strength of the webbing?

Correct. The chart is out of the first article in the second post, if memory serves.

[dynamicsnail]

I still think that this bar tack pattern done by [O]tter is one of the coolest straps I've ever seen.
Strap.jpg

I've tried a lot of different methods, but I like what he did with the loop there. So I made some, but with the multiple lines variation (probably more like 11 peaks than 5--overkill). I also added a twist in the line which might help distribute the load a little better throughout the webbing's width.

[Mouseskowitz]

That looks nice and a little easier to do.

[miyanc]

I did a box, with the zig zag in the middle. The box is done twice. I can do the whole thing in one long stitch. I start going the short way. I go forward and back , then forward then turn and run long ways down the side. 4". Then over and down to the original line. I then turn around 180 and run it back up over and down. I then go up and down inside the box with 6 to 8 lines zigzaged back and forth. I will post pics when I finish the project.