Ultralight Hammock
This project is a lightweight gathered end hammock system that was done for a hackathon, where I had to create something within a 4-hour time limit. I chose this project because I backpack in my free time, and I have been upgrading my gear to be more lightweight. Most ultralight hammocks are pricey, and the one I made costs ~$40 in materials.
Materials:
- Ripstop Nylon
- Amsteel 7/64 (25 feet)
- ¾” polyester webbing (10 feet)
- Titanium hooks
- Polyester thread
- Scissors and sewing pins
- Sewing Machine
Step 1: Cut Fabric
Hammocks are usually 10-12 feet long and 60 inches wide. For this project, I wanted to cut down on the overall weight of the hammock, so I cut my fabric to 9 feet long and 52 inches wide. This width and length is suitable for a one person hammock. I am 6 feet tall and have slept comfortably in it every time.
Step 2: Sew edges
Create a 1 inch double fold hem along the length of the fabric and pin. Sew three stitches along the fold.
Create a second double fold hem on the ends that is 3" (for the straps to loop through) and pin. Sew four stitches and be sure to double stitch the ends. I also sewed a box at the corners where the two sides meet to reinforce it.
Step 3: Create continuous loops
Cut two 18” pieces of Amsteel braided cord and use a wire fishing tool to create two continuous loops. This will go through the ends of the hammock and create a loop where the hammock can attach to the titanium hooks on the straps. YouTube tutorial Here.
Step 4: Create whoopie slings
Cut two 6 feet sections of Amsteel and use a wire fishing tool to create two whoopie slings and attach a titanium hook, or alternatively a carabiner. YouTube tutorial Here.
Step 5: Tree straps
Cut two 4.5 feet sections of webbing. Create two loops at the end: one end is a 3 inch loop and the other end a 5 inch loop. Sew boxes where the webbing meets at the end of the loop several times.
Step 6: Create Bag
I cut a piece of fabric that was 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide for my hammock. YouTube tutorial
I cut a piece of fabric that was 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide for my hammock. YouTube tutorial
Here.
