Create a Relaxing Oasis with This DIY Hammock Chair Tutorial

As an artist, I find that some of the best creative sparks fly when I’m relaxing in a peaceful space. There’s something about swaying gently in a hammock that melts away stress and invites inspiration. Today, I’m excited to share a DIY project that’s close to my heart – a simple yet stylish hammock chair you can easily create for your own outdoor haven.

This project is especially meaningful because it was inspired by my children. My eldest, an avid reader, was yearning for a quiet space to escape the playful chaos of his younger siblings. This hammock chair, nestled in the tranquility of our front porch, became his sanctuary.

Whether you’re looking to create a cozy reading nook, a peaceful spot for morning coffee, or a playful addition to your backyard, this DIY hammock chair is a rewarding project that’s sure to become a beloved spot in your home.

Gathering Your Materials

Before we embark on this creative journey, let’s gather the necessary tools and materials. This hammock chair is designed to be sturdy and durable, capable of holding up to 200 lbs. However, if you’re looking for something with a higher weight capacity, you can easily find sturdier supplies at your local hardware store.

Materials you’ll need:

• For the Seat:
  • 2 yards of plain canvas fabric – Choose a durable outdoor fabric for longevity.
  • Fabric paint – Black or any color you fancy!
• For the Support:
  • 1 1/4″ x 3′ oak dowel – Oak is a strong hardwood, ideal for supporting weight.
• For the Hanging Mechanism:
  • 3/8″ x 16′ braided polypropylene rope – This will be threaded through the hammock.
  • 80mm stainless steel spring snap link – Provides a secure link between the rope and the quick link.
  • 3/16″ stainless steel quick link – This connects the spring link to your hanging point.
• Tools:
  • Sewing machine – For assembling the hammock seat.
  • Iron and ironing board – For crisp, clean folds on the fabric.
  • Shears – For cutting the fabric with precision.
  • Ruler – Measuring is crucial for this project.
  • Lighter – To melt the rope ends and prevent fraying.
  • Drill and 3/8″ drill bit – For creating holes in the oak dowel.
  • Paintbrush – For adding a personal touch with fabric paint.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Hammock Chair

Now that we have our materials prepped and ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of crafting our hammock chair:

Step 1: Cutting the Canvas

1. Fold your canvas fabric in half lengthwise, keeping the fold on the left side.
2. Measure 7 inches inwards from the top right corner and mark this point. This will determine the depth of your hammock chair.
3. Using a ruler, draw a straight line from the marked point to the bottom right corner.
4. Carefully cut along the line through both layers of the fabric. Unfold the fabric to reveal the seat shape.

Step 2: Creating the Hem

1. Fold the top edge of the fabric down by 1/2 inch and iron it flat.
2. Fold the same edge down another 1/2 inch and iron it flat again, creating a double-fold hem.
3. Pin the hem in place and stitch along the bottom edge of the fold using your sewing machine.
4. Repeat this hemming process for the long, bottom edge of the fabric.

Step 3: Forming the Rope Pockets

1. Rotate your fabric 90 degrees to the left, positioning the longest edge on the right.
2. Fold each corner inwards by approximately 1 1/2 inches and iron them flat.
3. Fold the unhemmed top edge down by 1/2 inch and iron it flat.
4. Fold the same edge down again by 1 1/2 inches and iron it flat, creating a pocket for the rope.

Step 4: Securing the Pockets

1. Stitch two straight lines along the bottom folded edge of the pocket you just created.
2. Reinforce the beginning and end of your stitching with backstitches for added strength.
3. Repeat this pocket creation and stitching process on the other side of the fabric.

Step 5: Preparing the Dowel

1. Measure and mark two points on your oak dowel – one at 2 inches and another at 4 inches from each end.
2. Use your drill and 3/8″ drill bit to create holes through the dowel at the marked points.
3. Smooth any rough edges around the holes with sandpaper. You can choose to stain the dowel or leave it natural.

Step 6: Adding a Personal Touch

1. Lay your canvas fabric flat on a protected surface. This is where you can unleash your creativity!
2. Use fabric paint to personalize your hammock chair with a unique design. You can paint one or both sides, letting each layer dry thoroughly before moving on to the next.

Step 7: Threading the Rope

1. Tie a knot at one end of your 16′ rope, leaving a 3-inch tail.
2. Melt the knotted end with a lighter to prevent fraying.
3. Thread the rope down through the outer hole of the oak dowel and up through the widest corner of one side of your canvas seat, reaching the narrow corner at the top.
4. Tie a knot about 3 feet away from your first knot.
5. Thread the rope up through the oak dowel again.
6. Continue threading the rope down through the hole 4 inches from the other end of the dowel.
7. Measure 3 feet from the loose end and tie a loose knot.
8. Thread the rope down through the other canvas pocket and back up through the last hole in the dowel.
9. Before tightening the knots, ensure both sides of the hammock are even. Adjust the knots as needed to achieve balance.

Step 8: Hanging Your Hammock Chair

1. Locate the center of the rope above your dowel and tie a secure knot, leaving 8-10 inches of space above it.
2. Attach your spring link to the knot, followed by the quick link.
3. Choose a sturdy hanging point, such as a ceiling beam or a strong tree branch. Ensure that your chosen location can safely support the weight of the hammock chair and its occupant.
4. Hang the quick link onto a securely installed hook at your chosen location.

Step 9: Final Adjustments and Enjoy!

1. Before settling in, give your hammock chair a gentle test by applying weight to it.
2. Adjust the knots on the rope to ensure the seat hangs evenly and comfortably.
3. For added comfort, especially for younger users, consider placing a soft, round pillow at the bottom of the hammock chair.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted your own DIY hammock chair! Now is the time to bask in the satisfaction of your creation, relax, and let your creative spirit soar.

Tips and Variations

• Height Adjustment: The height of your hammock chair can be easily adjusted by shortening or lengthening the rope. For lower ceilings, simply use a shorter length of rope or add another loop of knotted rope above the dowel.
• Fabric Choice: While plain canvas offers a blank canvas for customization, feel free to experiment with different outdoor fabrics. Upholstery-weight or outdoor fabrics with fun prints can add a vibrant touch.
• Decorative Accents: Personalize your hammock chair further with decorative accents like tassels, macrame details, or even string lights for a magical ambiance.

Conclusion

This DIY hammock chair is more than just a place to sit – it’s an invitation to unwind, to create, and to connect with yourself. It’s a testament to the power of handmade creativity and the joy of crafting something beautiful and functional for your home.

I encourage you to gather your materials and embark on this fulfilling project. You’ll be amazed by the sense of accomplishment and the tranquil retreat you create.

Remember, the most important ingredient in any DIY project is to have fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment, personalize, and infuse your own style into your creations. Happy crafting!