Tarp Hammock

by shaneoh3 in Outside > Camping

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Tarp Hammock

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Everybody likes to rest on a hammock and enjoy the moment - so I decided to make one for my room! This hammock is somewhat rudimentary, I used only two clamps, paracord, and tarp.

Materials

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You will need:
-50~70cm of 550 paracord
-Two c-clamps. Any size will work.
-1.5×3m of tarp. Adjust accordingly to your height.

Learn the Knots

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Now you need to tie each end of the tarp with the cord.

First, grab one end of the tarp, fold it vertically, then horizontally fold it zig-zag. If you don't get what I'm saying (probably the case), look at the pictures. 

Then, tie a hangman's knot. Put the ring over one end of the tarp, then pull the hanging end of the knot to tighten it. 

Repeat for the other end of tarp.

Attach Hammock

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Now you need to attach your hammock to a secure place. I had two (very secure) desks in the room, so I just clamped a c-clamps on each of the tables, then used the trucker's hitch to secure the hammock in place.

If you don't know how to tie a trucker's hitch, click here.

You don't need to use desks; you can screw in a eye-screw in your wall (make sure it is strong though) or trees in your backyard.

Test the Hammock

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Now you're done with your hammock! Test your hammock by gently sitting on it (don't yet try lying on it!). The tarp and paracord will stretch a bit, so you may need to adjust your knots. 

If everything stays where they should be, great! Now you can enjoy your relaxing hammock. 

Bonus: Pillow

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Maybe it's just me, but I think that a hammock is incomplete without a pillow. I'll show you how to make a comfortable pillow out of unused clothes.

Take some old pants (preferably pajamas), then stuff in some old clothing. tie two ends with a simple overhand knot. Voila, you just made a pillow!