Hammock bug net DIY

[simonm]

Hi all,

Here is a step by step guide on how I make my zipperless hammock net. Hope it helps.

http://www.tiergear.com.au/25/diy-hammock-net

[Bluegum Mic]

Simon I've always used integrated bug nets on my hammocks and I'm curious how do you find the two compare for ease of use etc (ie integrated vs zipperless bug net).

[simonm]

Hi Mic,

There really isn't much in it, depending on the hammock. I find getting in and out of the zipperless net very easy, reach for the shock cord bottom open it up and swing your legs out. It allows a much easier adjustment of an under quilt when it's on as the quilt is inside of the net with you. I also leave the net on my hammocks and pack it all into one stuff sack, but it has the benefit of being able to be easily removed when you don't need it. Though as you know some hammock nets are able to be zippered off.

Installing an under quilt on an integrated net will be easier though. An integrated net will also have tie outs to spread the hammock out, so this may also make it easier for some to get in the hammock as the fabric is already spread out. Personally I dislike tie outs so it's a non issue for me but I can see how others would prefer tie outs.

Technically an integrated net may also offer greater resistance to the creepy crawlies, though I have yet to have anything unwanted get passed my net.

The main reason I use and make net-less hammocks with a separate net is for most hammocks that have an asym design, the net actually dictates the shape of the hammock, and that can mean it feels more restrictive for some people including myself. It also only allows you to lay on one particular angle. With net-less hammocks you have the use of the full width of the fabric and the shape of the hammock is dependent upon the angle in which you lay. This is the beauty of the Warbonnet Blackbird design, though I have yet to see one in person - I will this weekend though, the added fabric above the regular hammock fabric means that the lay is exactly like a net-less hammock. The net does not change the shape of the fabric upon which you lay like it does in a Hennessy or Dream or Hammeck hammock. Essentially if you remove the top fabric from a Warbonnet Blackbird you will be left with their Traveller net-less hammock, which is just rectangle shape. It's a stroke of genius really. In fact 99% of the hammocks are just simple rectangles which have a net added that changes the shape to an asym design, plus some well positioned tie outs to accentuate it.

Sorry that was a bit longer than I planned . Essentially though I would say there is not a whole lot of difference but comes down to personal preference. I am going to start toying around with a integrated net hammock, and will put up a how to guide when I get it done. I would like it to be symmetric though for the reasons stated above.

[Bluegum Mic]

No, thankyou. It makes perfect sense. I've often thought about giving it a whirl but when I purchased my current hammock I was living in QLD so keeping creepy crawlies out was important (as there were plenty of them lol). Thats why I went with a dangerbird so I had flexibility with which top was deployed. But I've often thought about making a blackbird (there's a great write up on how to on the web somewhere...id have to dig it up). If I did I reckon I'd use your net on it vs integrated.
Thanks again =D

[simonm]

Hi Mic. I don't think a separate net would work with the Blackbird clone due to the shelf and the fact that its essentially the net which creates the footbox. Remove the top and there is no footbox.

[Picaro]

I'm trying to work up the courage for this....but if I order a premade one from you, then you'll know I chickened out.


Just in case you have trouble finding it, Mic...http://www.blackgoatgear.com/2011/04/my ... n.html?m=1

[Bluegum Mic]

Yep thats the one Picaro. I'll get around to it one day. My DIY has ground to a hault these days as my sewing room is next to my light sleeping youngests bedroom. I have one that can sleep through a cyclone (he literally has) and the other will stir if you tip toe past his room lol

[simonm]

There is also a thread or two on Hammock Forums about the Blackbird clone build. They add a little more detail to the above link from Picaro.

[davemal]

Simon,

Just a quick question with the bug net. Given that the bottom is gathered together with shock cord, there is going to be an area at the base of the hammock that is not covered by the netting. Typically, how big is this ? I cant really make it out in the pics.

This is an area that will be exposed to mossies biting through the base.... though easily fixed with a foam pad.

cheers

[simonm]

Hi Dave,
It depends on the length and sag of the hammock but as you say it will be covered by a pad or under quilt if you are concerned about getting bitten through the layer of hammock fabric. I can't say I have ever measured the actual gap to be able to give you a precise measurement.

[Macca81]

Hi Mic. I don't think a separate net would work with the Blackbird clone due to the shelf and the fact that its essentially the net which creates the footbox. Remove the top and there is no footbox.

just on this, i have made the blackbird close but have not gotten around to putting the netting on. footbox still works as intended without the netting.
HOWEVER! the shelf definately needs the netting, or something, otherwise its just a flap of fabric.

[simonm]

Well there you go. Is the top of the footbox floppy without the net?

[Macca81]

no, its the tightest part of the hammock just about, as the footbox effectively shortens that edge

[simonm]

no, its the tightest part of the hammock just about, as the footbox effectively shortens that edge

Ok - that makes sense. Thanks. Photo's would be good .