A Heavenly Hammock

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Now, you can get back to the tying (or is it trying?) part of the project. Loop one of the four longest cords around a metal ring with a lark's head knot, thread both the ends through the outermost hole in one of the bars, and secure the cord to the top left-hand loop of the hammock mesh, using a double half hitch. Go on to fasten each cord — in turn — from the ring, through the next support-bar hole, to a loop the net (Fig. 12, see Image Gallery). When you've completed all 20 strings, repeat the procedure on the other end of the hammock.

Finishing Off

To begin the end of this “knotty” chore, make a pair of three-cord braids. These will be used to add a bit of firmness to the hammock’s edges. To allow for the necessary “give”, you’ll want to make each braid 3 inches shorter than the stretched-out length of the netting — but be generous when cutting the twine, remembering that the cords will end up at least 10 percent shorter after braiding.

Tie the three ends together with an overhand knot, braid the cords, and thread the untied ends through the outside hole in one hardwood bar. Next, make a loose knot in the end of the braid and weave it in all out through the outer meshes of the net (Fig. 13, see Image Gallery). Then undo the loose knot, thread the braid through the outside hole of the bar at the other end of the hammock, and make a tight overhand knot to hold it in place. Repeat this process on the other side.

Now, hang your hammock between two convenient trees — and have a swinging summer!

The preceding article was adapted, by permission, from a project described in Vol. 1. No. 2 of Handmade magazine, published quarterly by Lark Communications.

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