Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, and I’m excited to share a project that’s perfect for soaking up those lazy summer days: a DIY hammock chair. Imagine yourself gently swaying in the shade, a cool drink in hand, feeling the stress melt away. Sounds idyllic, right? Well, the good news is, creating your own slice of backyard paradise is easier than you think.

This project is close to my heart. Years ago, I made one for my kids, and it was a huge hit. Friends and neighbors were constantly asking where we got it! So, whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, I’ll guide you through each step, offering tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way. Let’s get started!

Gather Your Materials

Before we dive in, let’s gather everything you’ll need:

Hardwood Dowel: A 1.5″ x 36″ hardwood dowel will provide the sturdy frame for your hammock chair. You can usually find these at your local hardware store.
Outdoor Fabric: You’ll need 1 and 2/3 yards of durable outdoor fabric, like canvas. Look for fabric that’s at least 60″ wide to ensure a comfortable seating area.
Rope: Choose a strong, weather-resistant rope that’s about 3/8″ thick and 16 feet long. You don’t want it to be too stretchy, as it needs to support your weight.
Carabiner and Swing Hanger: These are essential for hanging your hammock chair securely.
Sewing Supplies: You’ll need a sewing machine, thread, scissors, pins, and a measuring tape.
Drill and 1/2″ Drill Bit: You’ll use these to create holes in the dowel for threading the rope.

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Let’s Get Crafting!

Step 1: Cut and Finish the Fabric

Fold your fabric in half lengthwise, with the selvage edges aligned.
On one of the shorter sides, measure in 9-12 inches from the raw edge and mark it. A 9-inch cut will create a more reclined chair, while a 12-inch cut will make it more upright.
Cut from your mark diagonally towards the opposite raw edge.
Open the fabric – you’ll now have one short side and one long side.
Finish the short and long sides by folding the edge over twice and stitching it down. This prevents fraying and gives a neat look.
For the angled edges, fold and press 1/2 inch of the fabric twice to create a casing for the rope. Pin in place and sew a double-reinforced seam.

Step 2: Prepare the Dowel

Measure and mark two spots on your dowel for the rope holes. You’ll want the holes to be 2 inches and 4 inches from each end of the dowel, respectively.
Using your drill and 1/2″ drill bit, carefully drill holes through the dowel at the marked locations. Repeat on the other side of the dowel.

Step 3: Assemble Your Hammock Chair

Tie a secure double knot at one end of your rope.
Thread the rope through one of the outer holes in the dowel, then through the casing on the long side of the fabric.
Measure 3 inches from the dowel and tie another knot in the rope.
Thread the rope upwards through the adjacent hole in the dowel, ensuring the knot sits snugly underneath.
Create a large loop with the rope above the dowel.
Thread the rope back down through the same dowel hole, creating a secure anchor point.
Measure 3.5 inches from the dowel and tie another knot in the rope.
Thread the rope through the fabric casing on the short side.
Finally, thread the rope back up through the remaining dowel hole and secure it with a double knot.

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Step 4: Hang Your Hammock Chair

Slide the fabric towards the center of the rope loop to create the seat of your hammock chair.
Loop your swing hanger around a sturdy tree branch or beam.
Tie a knot in the top of your hammock chair’s rope, leaving about 6 inches of rope above the knot.
Connect the rope to the swing hanger using the carabiner.

Sew a fun DIY hammock chair with this sewing and diy tutorial. Create a fun outdoor chair to enjoy all summer long.

Time to Relax!

Congratulations! You’ve just created your very own DIY hammock chair. Now, all that’s left to do is find the perfect spot to hang it and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

This project is incredibly rewarding, and the end result is a unique piece that adds a touch of handmade charm to your outdoor space. Plus, there’s nothing quite like relaxing in something you created yourself.

Sew a fun DIY hammock chair with this sewing and diy tutorial. Create a fun outdoor chair to enjoy all summer long.