Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Remember those lazy summer afternoons spent lounging in a hammock, a gentle breeze whispering through the trees? Let’s recreate that bliss with a DIY project that’s as rewarding to build as it is to enjoy – a handcrafted hammock chair.
This project is a blast from the past, revisited and refreshed for 2024! Years ago, I built a similar hammock chair for my kids, and it was a hit. Now, with a new generation eager for outdoor adventures, it’s time to share the joy of crafting your own cozy escape.
This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to craft a charming and durable hammock chair. Let’s transform your backyard into a haven of relaxation, one stitch at a time!
Gathering Your Supplies: Tools of the Trade
Every masterpiece begins with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to embark on your hammock chair journey:
- Hardwood Dowel: A 1.5″ x 36″ hardwood dowel forms the sturdy backbone of your chair. Source this from your local hardware store or online retailers.
- Outdoor Fabric: Opt for 1 and 2/3 yards of durable outdoor fabric like canvas. A 60″ width is ideal. Hobby Lobby often has great deals, or browse online marketplaces for a wide selection.
- Strong Rope: Choose 16 feet of 3/8″ rope. Look for a type that’s tough, weather-resistant, and doesn’t stretch excessively to ensure your hammock chair hangs securely.
- Hanging Hardware: A sturdy carabiner and a swing hanger designed for tree branches are essential for secure installation. Many swing hanging kits conveniently include both.
Step-by-Step Guide: From Fabric to Cozy Cocoon
Ready to turn those raw materials into a relaxation haven? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process:
1. Preparing the Fabric: Shaping Your Relaxation Canvas
- Measure and Cut: Fold your fabric lengthwise, keeping the selvage edges aligned. Measure and mark 9-12 inches from the raw edge on one side. Remember, a 9-inch cut creates a more reclined hammock chair, while 12 inches results in a more upright position. Connect this mark to the opposite raw edge with an angled cut.
- Finishing the Edges: With the fabric unfolded, you’ll have a long and short side. Neatly finish the short and long sides by either stitching a 1-inch double fold or a 1.5-inch fold for a clean look.
- Creating the Rope Casing: Fold the raw edges of the angled sides twice to form a 1.5-inch casing for the rope. Secure these folds with pins and reinforce them with a double seam.
2. Preparing the Dowel and Roping It Up
- Drilling Guide Holes: Carefully drill four ½-inch holes into your dowel – two on each end. Position the holes 2 inches and 4 inches from the edges, respectively.
- Threading the Rope: Double knot one end of your 16-foot rope. Thread it through an outer hole, then through the LONG side casing of your fabric.
- Securing the Fabric: Measure 3 inches from the dowel and tie a knot in the rope. Thread the rope upwards through the opposite dowel hole, ensuring the knot rests on the underside. Create a loop, then thread the rope down through the inner hole.
- Repeating on the Other Side: Measure 3.5 inches from the end, tie a knot, and thread the rope through the short side fabric casing. Finally, thread it back up through the remaining dowel hole and secure it with a double knot.
3. Final Touches: Hanging Your Masterpiece
- Centering and Hanging: Evenly distribute the fabric along the rope loop. Secure your swing hanger to a sturdy tree branch, and tie a knot in the hammock chair’s rope about 6 inches from the top. Use the carabiner to connect the rope to your swing hanger.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor
Congratulations! You’ve successfully transformed simple materials into a source of endless summer relaxation. This DIY hammock chair, born from your creativity and craftsmanship, is ready to cradle you as you read, daydream, or simply soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
I encourage you to personalize your creation! Experiment with different fabrics, add decorative fringes, or even sew on pockets for your book and a refreshing drink.
Remember, the beauty of handmade treasures lies not just in their final form but also in the journey of crafting them. Share your hammock chair creations with me! I’d love to see your personal touch. And while you’re at it, explore the unique handmade gifts and craft supplies available at Robert Kline Art to fuel your next creative adventure.