Project Find a shady spot, preferably between two trees, posts or any other location where you can anchor a hammock securely and safely. If you want to hang a hammock on your porch between a support post and the wall, be sure you can anchor it to a wall stud or to something else sturdy, such as brick. If you are using trees to suspend the hammock, be sure they are at least 6” in diameter.
Helpful Tips
You can also purchase a hammock stand, which is convenient because it can be placed anywhere and moved easily if need be.
Decide whether you want a simple hammock or a hammock with spreader bars. Spreader bars go on each end of the hammock and help keep the hammock open, which makes it easier to get in and out of.
Measure your hammock, using a tape measure to ensure that it will fit and can be hung tautly between your two anchor points. You can decide how taut you want the hammock to be. Generally, for a fairly taut hammock, the distance between your two anchor points should be approximately 6” shorter than the fully extended length of the hammock. A looser hammock can be achieved when the space between the anchors is anywhere from 6” up to 2’ shorter than the length of the hammock. Remember that the more it sags, the closer it will be to the ground. If you need help, ask someone to assist you in stretching the hammock between your two potential anchor points to see how it will fit.
If you want to install posts from which to hang the hammock, use 4” x 6” posts installed at least 3’ into the ground. Use a post-hole digger to dig the postholes. Mix a batch of concrete in a wheelbarrow, following all manufacturer instructions. Insert the posts and then fill the space around them with concrete. Allow the concrete to set for the manufacturer-recommended amount of time.
