Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Remember those comfy hammock chairs we all dream of lounging in? Well, today, I’m excited to share a DIY guide on how to build your very own simple outdoor hanging chair hammock. This project is perfect for creating a peaceful haven right on your porch or in your backyard. Let’s gather our tools and dive into this rewarding project.
Tools and Materials
Before we begin, let’s make sure we have everything on hand. For this project you’ll need:
Materials:
- 1 1/4″ x 3′ oak dowel (Oak is a sturdy hardwood, great for supporting weight).
- 3/8″ x 16′ braided polypropylene rope (Purchase this by the foot at your hardware store).
- 2 yards of plain canvas fabric (Choose a durable canvas)
- 80mm stainless steel spring snap link (Make sure it can hold at least 220 lbs).
- 3/16″ stainless steel quick link (Look for one with a weight capacity of at least 660 lbs).
- Black fabric paint (Acrylic paint that works on fabric is ideal).
- Paint brush
Tools:
- Drill and 3/8″ drill bit
- Sewing machine
- Iron and ironing board
- Shears (Fabric scissors)
- Ruler
- Lighter
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your DIY Hammock Chair
Step 1: Cut the Canvas
- Fold your canvas in half, with the fold on your left.
- Measure about 7″ in from the top right edge and make a mark.
- Draw a line connecting this mark to the bottom right corner, and cut along the line through both layers of fabric.
- Unfold the canvas.
Expert Tip: I initially cut mine at 12″, but found 7″ to be a more suitable length.
Step 2: Hem the Canvas Edges
- Fold the top edge of your canvas down 1/2″ and iron it flat. Fold it down another 1/2″ and iron again.
- Pin this double-folded edge and sew it down to create a clean hem.
- Repeat the process for the long bottom edge of the canvas.
Step 3: Create Rope Pockets
- Rotate your fabric 90 degrees to the left, so the longest side is on the right.
- On each corner, fold the fabric inwards about 1 1/2″ and iron flat.
- Fold the unhemmed top edge down 1/2″ and iron, then fold it down another 1 1/2″ and iron flat again.
Step 4: Sew the Rope Pockets
- Stitch two lines along the bottom folded edge of each pocket you’ve created.
- For added strength, use back stitches at the start and end of your stitching.
Step 5: Prepare the Dowel
- Mark two points on your oak dowel – one at 2″ and the other at 4″ from the end.
- Drill through the dowel at both marks.
- Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper. (Optional: Apply a stain to the dowel if you prefer a finished look).
Step 6: Paint Your Design (Optional)
- If you’re adding a design, lay your canvas flat on a protected surface.
- Paint your desired design on one side. Let it dry completely, then paint the other side if you wish.
Expert Tip: If using printed fabric, opt for upholstery-weight or outdoor fabric for durability.
Step 7: Thread the Rope
- Tie a knot at one end of your rope, leaving about a 3″ tail.
- Lightly melt the knotted end to prevent fraying (be careful!).
- Thread the rope through the outer hole in the dowel.
- Bring the rope up through the widest corner of your canvas seat, from the bottom to the top of the pocket.
- Tie another knot in the rope, approximately 3′ from the first knot.
- Thread this end up through the dowel hole.
- Thread the rope down through the second hole on the dowel (the one 4″ from the edge).
- Measure out about 3′ of rope and tie a loose knot.
- Thread this end down through the other canvas pocket, going up through the remaining hole in the dowel.
- Tie a knot with a 3″ tail.
Expert Tip: Adjust the knots before tightening them fully to ensure both sides of the hammock chair hang evenly.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
- Find the center of the rope section above your dowel and tie a knot, leaving about 8″-10″ of space above it.
- Attach the spring link, then the quick link.
Step 9: Hang Your Hammock Chair
- Choose a sturdy location to hang your hammock chair. Make sure you have a securely installed hook or a strong tree branch.
- Hang your chair and test it out! Adjust knots for even weight distribution.
Enjoy Your Creation!
Congratulations! You’ve just built a relaxing outdoor retreat. Curl up with a good book and savor the fruits of your labor.
Conclusion
This DIY hanging hammock chair is a fun and rewarding project that adds a touch of handmade charm to your outdoor space.
For those who prefer ready-made options, be sure to explore our collection of unique, handcrafted hanging chairs at Robert Kline Art. They make wonderful and thoughtful gifts!
We’d love to see your hammock chair creations! Share your projects and any questions you might have in the comments below.