Looking for the perfect way to relax outdoors? Look no further! With this step-by-step guide, youll learn how to make your own custom hammock out of paracord.
In just a few easy steps, youll have your own comfortable and cozy hammock, ready for you to relax in.
Well cover everything from what youll need to get started, to measuring and cutting the paracord, tying square knots, creating sliding knots, and adjusting the knots.
And finally, well show you how to attach the ends of the paracord and add some finishing touches.
So, grab your paracord and get ready to make your own hammock!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
To make a hammock out of paracord you will need two sturdy trees to tie the ends of the paracord to.
Begin by measuring two equal lengths of paracord, about 20 feet each.
Tie the two ends of one length of paracord to one of the trees, and then tie the two ends of the other length of paracord to the other tree.
To complete the hammock, weave the two lengths of paracord together, forming a net.
Finally, tie the ends to the trees to securely anchor the hammock in place.
What You’ll Need
Making a hammock out of paracord is a great way to create a comfortable outdoor relaxation spot without spending a fortune.
To get started, you’ll need a few simple supplies.
The most important item is paracord, which is a strong and durable rope made from nylon.
You’ll also need two sturdy supports such as trees, poles, or posts, as well as a pair of scissors for cutting the paracord to the right length.
Once you have all of these items, you’re ready to begin!
Measuring and Cutting the Paracord
Measuring and cutting the paracord is the first step in creating your own hammock.
You will need to measure the distance between the two supports that you plan to use for the hammock, then cut your paracord accordingly.
To ensure a proper fit, you should measure the distance from the center of each support to the center of the other.
This will ensure that the hammock is centered and level.
It is important to make sure that your paracord is cut to the correct length for the hammock, as too long or too short of a paracord will affect the fit and stability of the hammock.
When measuring and cutting the paracord, it is important to use sharp scissors or a knife to ensure that the ends of the paracord are clean and even.
This will make it easier to tie the knots and will ensure that the hammock is even and balanced.
If you are using a knife to cut the paracord, make sure to use a sharp knife that is specifically designed for cutting paracord.
You should also take care to wear protective gloves while cutting the paracord, as the ends can be sharp and can cause injury if not handled properly.
Tying Square Knots
Tying square knots is an essential part of creating a hammock out of paracord.
Start by measuring the distance between the two supports and cutting the paracord to the appropriate length.
Next, take two strands of paracord and place them side-by-side, then tie a basic square knot by crossing the left strand over the right, then the right strand over the left, and then repeat until the desired length is achieved.
If the paracord is too tight, you can untie the knot and adjust the cords.
Once you have tied the square knots, move on to tying the sliding knots.
The sliding knots are used to adjust the size of the hammock and make it fit perfectly around the supports.
To create a sliding knot, take two strands of paracord and tie a basic square knot.
Then, take the left strand and tie another square knot, but this time, only tie it around the right strand.
This will create a loop that can be adjusted to fit the hammock around the supports.
Repeat this process until the desired length is achieved.
Creating Sliding Knots
Sliding knots are an essential part of making a hammock out of paracord.
They provide the necessary strength and stability for your hammock to hold its shape and remain comfortable.
Sliding knots are created by tying a series of slip knots into the paracord.
The knots should be spaced evenly and adjusted to ensure a tight fit.
To begin, measure the distance between the two supports and cut the paracord to the desired length.
Then, tie a series of square knots in the paracord, spacing them evenly.
Once the knots are tied, you can begin creating the sliding knots.
Start with a loop on one side of the paracord and tie it off with a square knot.
Then, create a loop on the other side and tie it off with another square knot.
The loops should be large enough to allow the paracord to slide easily between them.
Next, create a series of slip knots in the middle of the paracord.
Start by making a loop in the paracord and then threading the loop through itself.
Pull the loop tight and repeat the process until you have created the desired number of slip knots.
When you are done, adjust the knots to ensure a tight and even fit.
Finally, attach the ends of the paracord to the supports with clove hitches and enjoy your hammock!
Adjusting the Knots
Once you have tied the necessary knots to form the hammock, it is important to adjust them so that the hammock fits snugly between the two supports and is evenly distributed.
To do this, start by checking the tension of each knot.
Pull the knots as tight as possible to ensure they are secure.
Once the knots are securely fastened, use your hands to adjust them so that the hammock material is evenly distributed between both supports.
Then, you can move to the sides of the hammock and adjust the square knots and sliding knots on either side so that the hammock hangs evenly between the two supports.
For the best results, try to get the hammock to hang evenly without any gaps or wrinkles.
Finally, it is important to check the overall tension of the hammock.
Pull on the hammock material to ensure it is tight and secure.
If there are any gaps or wrinkles, adjust the knots or reposition the supports until the hammock fits snugly around your body.
You may need to make some minor adjustments to the knots to get the perfect fit.
Once you have achieved the desired tension, your hammock is ready to be enjoyed!
Attaching the Ends of the Paracord
Attaching the ends of the paracord to the supports is the final step in creating your hammock.
To do this, you will need to use clove hitches.
This knot is one of the most versatile and widely used knots in the world and is perfect for attaching paracord to your supports.
To tie a clove hitch, begin by looping the end of the paracord around one of the supports and then make a second loop around the support.
You will then thread the end of the paracord back through the first loop and tighten.
Repeat this process for the other end of the paracord and you will have a secure and tight attachment.
If you are looking for a more decorative option, you can also use a figure-eight knot.
This knot is a bit more complex than a clove hitch, but can give your hammock a more polished look.
To tie a figure-eight knot, start by looping the end of the paracord around one of the supports and then make a second loop around the support in the opposite direction.
You will then thread the end of the paracord back through the first loop and tighten.
Once you have both ends of the paracord secure, you can adjust the knots for a tight and even fit.
Once you have attached the paracord to the supports, you can enjoy your hammock! With the right knots and paracord, your hammock will be both stylish and comfortable.
Be sure to check your knots regularly to ensure that your hammock is secure and safe.
With a bit of patience and practice, you will be able to make a hammock out of paracord that will last for years to come.
Finishing Touches
Now that you have the basic structure of your hammock in place, its time to make the finishing touches.
Start by adjusting the knots so that the hammock is tight and evenly stretched.
This will ensure that the hammock is strong and comfortable.
Once youre satisfied with the tension, its time to attach the ends of the paracord to the supports.
Use clove hitches to securely fasten the paracord around the trees or other supports.
Be sure to tie the knots tightly so that the hammock wont come loose.
Once the clove hitches are secure, your hammock is ready to use!
To make your hammock even more comfortable, you can add a few extra touches.
For example, you can weave additional paracord into the bottom of the hammock to form a net-like pattern.
This will create a softer surface for you to lie on.
You can also add a matching pillow or cushion for extra comfort.
Finally, you can tie a few decorative loops or tassels along the sides of the hammock for a unique look.
With these finishing touches, your DIY hammock is now complete! You can now enjoy your own homemade creation in the great outdoors.
So grab a book, lay back in your hammock, and relax!
Final Thoughts
Making a hammock out of paracord is a great way to make a cozy outdoor space.
With the right tools and some simple knot-tying skills, you can create a secure and stylish hammock that you and your friends and family can enjoy for years to come.
Now that you know the steps, its time to get started! Grab your paracord, your two supports, and your scissors and create your own personal outdoor oasis!