How to Improvise a Hammock

You don't need palm trees to enjoy a swing in a hammock.

Summer is never far away, and there's no better way to spend a lazy summer afternoon than reading or napping in a hammock. If you don't own one, you can put one together for a relaxing swing.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Large blanket
• Long piece of rope (20 to 30 feet)
• 2 anchor points

1. Choose two anchor points for the head and foot of the hammock. These can be trees, fence posts or any other stable objects that are at least 4 to 5 feet tall and far enough apart to lie down between them.

2. Stretch the rope between your anchor points; tie it well to the first anchor, stretch it and secure it at the second anchor. Then return and tie it off at the first anchor. Make sure it's taut -- the rope will stretch when you put your weight on it.

3. Center the blanket both ways along the rope. Fold the blanket in thirds from side to side (across the hammock), enclosing the rope inside the blanket. You want the blanket to be folded completely in thirds.

4. Separate the ropes so that the center third of the blanket is on the bottom and the outer thirds completely overlap the middle third and the ropes.

5. Straddle the hammock and separate the two ropes so you can lie between them. Lie down on your hammock; your weight will keep the blanket's folds in place and the ropes separated.

Tips & Warnings

• Note that the most comfortable way to lie in a hammock is on the diagonal.

• Remember that the rope is going to stretch once you get in the hammock; you don't want to end up with your rear on the ground.