First DIY Hammock!

[ThatTallHammocker]

Hi all,

I just finished my first DIY hammock. I ordered 5 yards of black 1.6 oz Hyper D fabric from Ripstop by the Roll. I then cut it, hemmed all 4 sides, and sewed in a 108" velvet plush blanket (which doesn't extend the length of the hammock) that I bought from Wal Mart. I then just whipped the ends and added suspension. All together, the hammock is about 12' X 70" and with the suspension from my BB XLC weighs 4 lbs, 10 oz. For most people, this is by NO means a backpacking hammock but could be used for car camping or the like. I don't mind the extra 2 pounds it adds over my BB XLC for the added comfort so I might take it on some backpacking trips. I just set it up and have included some pics below. Based off of a short hang in my backyard, it feels pretty great although I will have to wait until I have the chance to spend the night in it to really test its comfort.

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[geneaut]

I like it. The joy of rolling your own is you can make then to your specs. Just like you have done here.

If you need a backpacking rig you know how to make it now if needed.

[Theosus]

I like the blanket idea. I cut down a cheap TexSport "sleeping bag" to use as a hammock/quilt liner, mainly because I hate the feeling of lying right on the hammock fabric. Its thin fleece, and with the zipper removed and the shape cut into a mummy-bag style with a footbox, its easy to lay on. Having a piece of that sewn on would be WAY easier than fighting it into place after crawling into the hammock. The only nice thing about it being loose is, if it's cold in camp and I don't have enough clothes, it wraps around my upper body. I made a second one with snaps that opens up for that reason.

There's nothing more rewarding than DIY that comes out like you want it!

[ThatTallHammocker]

I like the blanket idea. I cut down a cheap TexSport "sleeping bag" to use as a hammock/quilt liner, mainly because I hate the feeling of lying right on the hammock fabric. Its thin fleece, and with the zipper removed and the shape cut into a mummy-bag style with a footbox, its easy to lay on. Having a piece of that sewn on would be WAY easier than fighting it into place after crawling into the hammock. The only nice thing about it being loose is, if it's cold in camp and I don't have enough clothes, it wraps around my upper body. I made a second one with snaps that opens up for that reason.

There's nothing more rewarding than DIY that comes out like you want it!

Yeah I love the feel of the blanket beneath me and yours is a great idea too! I hope it turns out well if you try it out.

[wenestvedt]

How is it for warm weather lounging -- too hot? Or do you only use it for sleeping?

[OutdoorEnvy]

Nice! I too like the blanket idea. Keep us updated on how it does for you. I would say though that looks might good for a first try.

[Stewie510]

Nice job. I am still working on my first DIY Hammock. Design is the hardest part.