Build your own DIY camping hammock: DIY materials, tips and tricks

Camping is no longer just about sleeping mats and sleeping bags. With a homemade hammock, you can bring comfort and creativity to your adventure. Because a DIY camping hammock is more than just equipment - it's your own project where you decide on the fabric, size and details yourself.

So that you can not only relax on your next trip, but also be proud of your work, we will show you step by step how to build your hammock - from the material to the suspension.

Table of contents

Which material and fabric are suitable for a DIY hammock?
How can I sew my own hammock - simple instructions
Build your own hammock: Which knots and ropes to use for fastening?
Where can I hang my hammock and what do I need to consider?
Key points summarized

Which material and fabric are suitable for a DIY hammock?

When you think of your future hammock, you probably immediately think of comfortable swinging. But before you get to that point, you need to make the most important decision: Which fabric is suitable in the first place?

A hammock has to be able to withstand a lot - after all, it should be able to carry you, maybe even two of you. At the same time, you don't want to compromise on comfort. A hard, scratchy fabric would be the opposite of comfortable. That's why it's worth taking a closer look here.

Suitable fabric types:

• Nylon ripstop: ultra-light, tear-resistant and perfect if you want to carry your hammock in your rucksack.
  
• Canvas (sailcloth): heavier but extremely robust. Ideal for the garden or longer stays in a fixed location.
  
• Parachute silk: feels pleasantly soft, is breathable and has enough width to really snuggle up in.

👉 Tip: If you often sleep outside, choose a breathable fabric. Sweating in a hammock is no fun at all.

Calculate the width and length

For your mat to be really comfortable, it should be at least 1.50 meters wide. This is the only way you can lie in it diagonally - and that makes the difference between "slouching like a banana" and really relaxing. The following applies to the length: body height plus about 1.5 meters. This ensures that you have enough space without the mat looking oversized.

"The length depends on your height. Rule of thumb: height + 1.5 m."

Example table:

Check load capacity

When buying, you should also check the load capacity. Many fabrics are designed for 100-150 kilos, which is enough for most people. If you want to be on the safe side - or want to jump into the mat with two people - look for a material that can withstand up to 200 kilos. That way you can sit back and relax without constantly thinking about tearing.

A little hack: Ask in specialist shops for fabrics for sails, parachutes or outdoor tents - they are usually robust enough.

How can I sew my own hammock - simple instructions

Now that you have the right fabric, it's time to get down to business: sewing. Don't panic, even if you're not a sewing expert or professional - a hammock is a great beginner's project. What counts here is not straight lines or perfect seams, but above all stability.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Cut the fabric: Cut the fabric to your calculated length. Make sure that the edges are straight.
   
2. Prepare the ends: Fold the ends over twice (5-10 cm each) and sew them in place several times. This will ensure that nothing frays.
   
3. Make loops: Sew loops at both ends through which the ropes will later pass. Make sure that the seams are really tight - this is where all the weight will be later.
   
4. Better safe than sorry: Sew each seam at least twice. It should be sturdy, not look pretty.
   
5. Without a sewing machine?: You can also sew by hand with a strong needle and thick thread. It takes longer, but works great.

Tips for sewing beginners

• Set your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch - it is more flexible and can withstand more tension.
  
• Use a tear-resistant thread (e.g. polyester). Cotton thread may be eco-friendly, but it tears more quickly.
  
• Test your seams by giving them a good tug before hanging up the mat.

Extra tip: If you feel like it, you can sew a mosquito net or a small pocket for your cell phone etc. into the edge.

Build your own hammock: Which knots and ropes to attach?

Imagine you've finished sewing your hammock, hang it between two trees - and suddenly you're lying on the ground faster than you'd like. To make sure this doesn't happen to you, you need the right ropes and a little knowledge of knots.

Choice of rope

The choice of rope is crucial. Thin ropes may be light, but they often cut into the bark and can tear. Sturdy packing list ropes with a diameter of at least 6-8 millimetres are better. They can easily withstand 200 kilos. Paracord is also popular, but you need to pay attention to the load capacity. Incidentally, we recommend tree straps for the forest - they are wider and protect the trees.

• Packing list rope (min. 6-8 mm): sturdy and versatile.
  
• Paracord: light and popular, but pay attention to the load capacity.
  
• Tree straps: wider than ropes, protect the bark and are often the better choice for camping.

Practical knot types

Then it's time for the knots. Don't worry, you don't have to be a sailor to secure your hammock. Two or three basic knots are all you need. The anchor knot is particularly practical: it's easy to learn and quick to make. The double figure-eight knot is suitable for particularly strong fastenings. If you want to tighten your mat, you should also know the tensioning knot.

• Anchor stitch: quick and easy, perfect for attaching to a tree.
  
• Double figure-of-eight knot: holds tight, even under heavy loads.
  
• Tension knot: ideal for tightening the hammock if it sags.

👉 Important: Always pull the ropes really tight and test the mat before you lie down in it. It is best to sit in it once and check that everything is tight.

Where can I hang my hammock and what do I need to bear in mind?

Now comes the best moment: finally hanging up your hammock. But where is the best place to do this?

The most obvious choice is of course the classic: two trees at the right distance. But you can also hang your mat in the garden, on the terrace or even indoors. With sturdy hooks on the walls, it will become your new favorite spot in no time at all. If you have a balcony, you can also find a great solution between the railing and the wall.

It is always important to pay attention to the load. Whether tree, beam or post - they must be able to bear your weight. A simple test: push hard against it or hang on to it briefly with your full weight before attaching the mat.

And don't underestimate the height. Ideally, your mat should be about 40-50 centimetres above the floor. That way, you'll be sitting comfortably and won't have to worry about a big fall if the worst comes to the worst. Also make sure that there are no sharp stones or branches underneath you - otherwise it will quickly become uncomfortable if you fall.

If you feel like getting creative, try out unusual places. Sometimes, with a little imagination, you can find exciting possibilities that you wouldn't have thought of at first glance. You can find more tips on this in the article Hanging a hammock correctly.

Key points to summarize

Building a DIY camping hammock is not as complicated as it sounds. Here are the most important points again:

• Choose a sturdy material, at least 1.50 m wide, length according to height + 1.5 m.
  
• Sew around the ends twice, make sturdy loops and use tear-proof thread.
  
• Secure your mat with a strong packing list rope or tree straps and secure knots.
  
• Find creative places to hang it up, but always pay attention to load capacity and safety.

The best thing about it: you can completely customize your hammock to your wishes - whether it's the color, type of fabric or extras such as pockets. And the feeling of lying in a self-made mat at the end is priceless.

If you're still looking for tips on how best to sleep in it, be sure to read on in our article Sleeping in a hammock.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab the fabric, thread the needle, prepare the ropes - and soon you'll be dangling relaxed in your very own DIY camping hammock. 🌿