How do I Make a Hammock Swing with a Foot Rest?

Ropes secure the hammock to the anchor.

Relaxing in a hammock is an experience you don't forget. There are a number of options for this favorite do-it-yourself project. There are kits that include the netting already sewn or a swing chair already made, formed complete with foot rest. All that is needed is the anchor or "C" frame that allows the swing to hang down from a central support point.

Things You'll Need

• Swing Stand kit which includes:
• C frame support
• C frame base
• seat support or netted hammock seat
• armrest pieces
• footrest assembly
• nylon support rope
• bolts and washers
• ----------------------------
• Nylon hammock cord
• Eye bolts
• Heavy duty canvas
• Size 18 sewing needles
• Heavy duty thread
• Industrial sewing machine
• Pillow
• Snap hooks

Instructions

Hammock Swing from a Kit

1. 

   Hammock sizes are important in calculating amount of rope needed.

   Assemble the "C" frame support and base. The "C" frame and base varies depending on the model of swing kit you purchased, but the function is identical. The "C" frame will have a 4-inch extension tab on its bottom that will insert into the section of the base support legs. Insert the bolts through the holes in the tab and in the base support. Secure the bolts using the lock washers and nuts and tighten firmly. The base should form an "X" and when it's stood on its end, should be stable.

2. Hook nylon cord and seat assembly together. Using the chain or the nylon cord with a snap hook on the end, secure the cord to the top of the "C" frame. The top wooden support bar will have a loop in the center of the support cord; attach this loop into the snap hook in the "C" frame.

3. Attach the foot rest cord to the loop in the center of the top wooden support bar with the snap hook. The foot rest should hang and be located in the center of the swing seat. In most hammock kits, the cords are already attached to the seats. Hook the seat to the top wooden support bar with either the snap hooks or eye-bolts provided. Check the seat for sturdiness by gently sitting down and place your feet in the provided rest "sling" in front of you.

DIY Hammock Swing

1. Choose a location where a single support beam or branch capable of holding 500 lbs. of weight is available. If you cannot find a suitable location, one option is to purchase a "C" frame from a hammock store and use that as your support.

2. Lay a length of hammock twine on either side of the canvas lengthwise. The canvas length should be at least as long as the tallest user will be. The hammock twine should leave enough room for both ends to be secured to the support structure. At the center point of the canvas, tie a piece of cord to the cord running down the right side of the canvas. This cord will be tucked under the canvas and tied to the cord on the left side of the canvas. The cord should have about 4 feet in length protruding from each side of the canvas.

3. Fold a 2-inch portion of the canvas over the cord and using size 18 sewing needles with heavy duty thread, sew the pocket up both sides of the hammock. Use double or triple seams to ensure strength. This can be done rather quickly with an industrial sewing machine, if you have one. The cord you choose should have a working load that is greater than the weight of the heaviest person who will be using the hammock.

4. Cut a piece of canvas roughly 3 feet long by 2 feet wide and use leftover cord in the same manner as the main canvas piece to create a "mini-hammock." Hang the large canvas piece from the support structure using either eye bolts if it is a large branch or snap hooks if you are using a "C" frame.

   Take the center cord that is underneath the canvas and secure it to the support structure about 12 inches from the first eye bolt or snap hook. The cord in the center will serve as the base for the pillow or cushion that will form the seat of the swing.

5. Secure the foot rest to the center cord on both sides and run the cord up behind the canvas. The foot rest should be on the front of the hammock. Tie a knot in the cords that hang from the bottom of the canvas pockets. Trim extra cord off past the knot and discard. Sit down carefully in the "seat", extend your legs and lay your feet in the snug foot rest.

Tips & Warnings

• Check branches for strength before attaching your hammock to them. Only use a healthy tree or to be safe, purchase a "C" frame.

References

• Rustic Girls: Net Making, How to Tie a Casting Net, Make a Hammock, too.
• Ask The Builder: Hanging Hammocks
• Earthguild: Making a Netted Hammock
• Hammock Chair Stands: Types of Hammocks