In this tutorial article we will show you how to create your own vertical DIY compression stuff sack
This is a smaller, vertical compression. This compresses along the length of the stuff sack. Compression pressure on the longest side (most room for potential compression). In our opinion the better, most efficient style of compression stuff sack.
Instructions for a clean-looking compression stuff sack.
Step 1: Cut all pattern pieces from 300D. Pattern Piece Measurements: ● Main stuff sack body- 16 1/2″ x 10″ ( lay 10″ side on fold, add 2″ x 3/4″ tab on opposite edge to cut. (See photo below) ● End cap circles are 6 1/8″ in diameter . Cut 2. ● Compression panels are 20″ long, 2 3/4″ wide at the widest point, i.e., the “posts”, and 2 1/4″ wide in the “valleys”.
Step 2: Cut reflective cord to four 16″ lengths. Step 3: Cut grosgrain to eight 5″ lengths. Step 4: Thread each 5” length of grosgrain through the beastee dees and linelock 3s. Sew ends together to create tabs. Fuse ends with a flame.
Step 5: Arrange 2 compression side panels (right sides together), “sandwiching” tabs between the 2 layers of fabric, tabs centered on each “post”, hardware facing in. Make sure all the hardware on tabs are facing the same direction between two layers of fabric. Sew at ¼”. Backtack over grosgrain tabs for reinforcement.
Step 6: Open the panels and fold crosswise, sew ends together. (right sides together). After this seam is sewn, panel must be 9 3/8” when folded in half crosswise, to ensure it will fit the circle end cap in a later step.
Step 7: Snip the curves, as illustrated.
Step 8: Turn right side out, top stitch with a narrow seam allowance.
Step 9: Reinforce tabs with topstitched x-boxes or half x-boxes on each post just under the previous topstitch seam . Make sure to be center your x-box reinforcements over the grosgrain tabs on the inside. You can find them by feel and mark with chalk if you need a seam guide.
Step 10: Repeat steps 5-9 for second set of compression panels.
Step 11: Sew end cap circle to the compression panel (linelock3 panel). The edge of machine presser foot is a good seam allowance for this step.
Step 12: On main stuff sack body, fold both 2” tabs inwards on the wrong side and hem, making sure to keep the seam the same length as the tab. This finishes the opening of drawstring channel.
Step 13: Fold top edge of stuff sack inwards 1” and hem to create drawstring channel.
Step 14: Fold main stuff sack body in half, right sides together. Sew side seam, leaving an opening at the beginning of seam for drawstring channel. After side seam is sewn, main body must be 9 3/8” wide, to ensure main body will fit end cap circle properly.
Step 15: Use a bodkin to thread the drawstring channel with Dutch Cord. (If you don’t have a bodkin, an extra large safety pin threaded with the cord works well for this) Thread both ends through the mini cord lock. Knot twice. Fuse ends with a flame.
Step 16: Attach main body to bottom compression panel (panel with beastee dees tabs) . Use a narrow seam allowance.
Step 17: Attach bottom end cap circle to the main body, right sides together. Make sure to sew seam deeper then previous seam to ensure the first seam is not visible on outside of finished product. Turn right side out.
Step 18: Compress everything in sight (except small dogs and children).
“What should I bring when camping with my dog” is a common question that many pet owners who camp ask. Every camper’s list may include slightly different things based on your dog’s needs, but certain items should be on every pet owner’s list.
Equipment To Bring When Camping With Your Dog
These things will help you and your dog have a fun trip while staying safe.
Doggy Backpack
Strap on your favorite pair of reliable hiking boots and start loading the car with your camping supplies, including your dog’s very own backpack. On this camping trip, your trusted K-9 companion can help carry the load. If you often hike with your pet, a pack is an excellent investment.
These backpacks are quite handy because they have storage space for smaller items such as treats and poop bags. They’re designed to be comfortable with a sturdy ring to attach a leash. Dog backpacks usually have reflective material, as well, so that your K-9 pal is easy to see for added safety while hiking and around your camp.
Some dogs don’t like wearing a backpack, so it’s entirely up to your pet’s preference. Let them wear the bag around the house so that they can get used to carrying it with a few supplies, and then they should be fine on longer trips.
ID and Temporary Tags
Safety for your pet is a priority, and you want to make sure that your dog doesn’t get lost. However, they may slip out of the tent in the middle of the night or wander away from camp. So, make sure that your dog has a collar and tag with current contact information. Many people move and don’t update this info, and that’s a problem if someone finds your dog but can’t find you. Make sure that the tag has your current phone number and address.
Even better, get a temporary tag that has your camping location. Include the name of the campground or area, the phone number of the closest forest ranger station, and your campsite number.
Having your pet microchipped is a great idea and adds another layer of protection against losing your dog. If your pet slips their collar, then the microchip increases the chances of their safe return.
First Aid Kit
The good news is that most of the items in your first aid kit work on your pet as well, and you’re carrying a kit for yourself, right? However, canines have some different needs than humans. You’ll need equipment to take care of any injuries until you can get your dog to the vet. There are pre-made first aid kits for dogs, or you can create your own. Essential supplies include:
Vet Wrap
Cotton Swabs
Gauze
Medical Tape
Non-stick Pads
Heat and Cold Packs
Tweezers
Gloves
Oral Syringe or Eye Dropper
Benadryl
Antibiotic Ointment
Styptic Powder
Hydrogen Peroxide
Portable Water and Food Bowls
Of course, food and hydration are essential, and collapsible water bowls are easy to carry because they save space. Bring enough for your pet to eat and drink out of, as well as extras to leave in different areas of your camp for water. These bowls are much more convenient than using whatever you may have lying around camp.
You may not have a reliable source of clean water, depending on where you’re camping. It’s wise to purchase a filter or bring another water purification method to ensure you have clean water that’s safe for you and your pet to drink.
Food
This item should be obvious, but feeding your pet at a campsite is slightly different from feeding them at home. They are likely more active while on a camping trip and require more food because of the energy they burn. To ensure you have enough food, bring double the amount that they usually consume.
You likely have your pet’s dinner plans down pat. However, some people want to know what to feed their pet when camping, and it’s generally the same as what you feed them at home. Kibble that’s high protein and grain-free, supplemented with a raw diet, provides a quality meal for your dog.
Dehydrated raw food is an excellent food source for a camping trip, and many K-9s enjoy it. It’s also lighter and more comfortable to carry on the trail. You can also re-hydrate it for extra hydration for dogs that don’t drink large quantities of water. To keep the bugs out of your pet’s food and keep it fresh, think about buying a kibble carrier. To keep the bears away, store it in a bear-proof container.
Long and Short Leashes
It’s critical to pack leashes of varying lengths to keep your pet safe while camping. Include a short leash that doesn’t retract, to keep your dog safe on short walks in the woods. Non-retractable leashes help keep your dog from getting wrapped around trees. Use a long line if you’re camping in an open clearing. It still controls your pet while allowing them the freedom of movement.
Sleeping Bag or Dog Bed
Your K-9 friend needs something warm to sleep in at night. Sure, they can snuggle with you in your sleeping bag, or you can bring a sleeping bag made just for dogs. Another option is to set up an inflatable sleeping mat and blankets. Just make sure that your pet stays warm.
You can even set up a tent just for dogs. It provides a great napping place during the day when it’s hot or a warm place to cozy up in near the fire. A tent also blocks wind and keeps your pet warmer.
Additional Items
Here are some other items you can bring on your camping trip:
Water Cooler
Long-Lasting Treats
Booties
Comb
Poop Bags
Extra Towels
Safety Light
All-Weather Tarp
Pet Camper
Balls and Toys
Hammocks
These items are some of the primary outdoor doggy gear to bring with you on a camping trip with your K-9. You can set up a sturdy duffle bag to carry all of your pet’s necessities that they aren’t carrying in their backpack and simply unload it at the campsite. These things shouldn’t take up too much room, and they ensure that your camping adventure is the safest and most fun trip yet.
4 Tips for Hiking With Your Dog
1. Prepare Your Dog for Outdoor Adventures
To prepare for a long hike, we take short backpacking trips. Likewise, your dog may need time to get used to many hours of trekking on unfamiliar terrain. Plan small hikes with your dog ahead of time in a similar environment as your longer trip.
Start with short walks and see how your dog responds — watch for excessive panting, drooling or visible exhaustion. Then add difficulty and distance to build your dog’s strength and stamina.
2. Carry Enough Food, Water and Dog Supplies
In a well-fitted harness pack, your pet can carry much of its own supplies. Pack extra kibble, plenty of water, a collapsible water bowl, a first aid kit and poop bags. Make sure to exercise Leave No Trace by collecting and carrying out your dog’s waste.
Depending on the length and difficulty of your trip, you can also bring heatstroke prevention supplies, dog booties and a lightweight pup tent. Whatever dog gear you decide to bring, your dog’s pack should not weigh more than one-third of its body weight.
3. Know Trail Etiquette
The most important tip for hiking with your dog is to exercise proper etiquette on the trail. Remember to keep your pet under control at all times. Step off the trail to allow other hikers to pass. When in doubt, hike with your dog on a short leash to help ensure the safety of your pet, the native wildlife and other hikers.
4. Research Your Location
It’s crucial to get to know the rules of a specific trail, campsite or national park. For most trails, plan to have your dog on a leash at all times. Keep in mind that many national parks do not permit dogs at all.
Familiarize yourself with the wildlife and common threats you could encounter while hiking. If you’re heading into the backcountry, add a bear bell to your dog’s harness pack or carry bear spray. In any natural environment, prevent your dog from drinking stream water, which could contain pathogens.
Hit the Trails With Essential Backpacking Gear From DutchWare
At DutchWare, we have everything you need for hammock camping and do-it-yourself (DIY) gear making at competitive prices. Our high-quality products are ultra-light so you can enjoy a minimalist approach to backpacking, hiking and camping with your dog.
Take a look at our extensive inventory of gear for your next trip. You can rest assured that you’re choosing top-notch backpacking equipment for a safe and adventurous experience, no matter your skill level.
Step 4: Cut mesh panels, notch bottom of front panel in center and two notches 4″ on either side of center notch. See photos.
Step 5: Double fold hem (½” for each fold) on top edge of front panel. (top edge is opposite from side with pattern notches) Leave a gap in the topstitching inset from both sides. This creates an opening for the shock cord drawstring.
Step 6: Use a bodkin to thread shock cord through casing, (a safety pin works if you don’t have a bodkin) attach mini cord locks to both ends, knot and fuse both ends.
Step 7: Baste a tuck on the bottom side of the front panel, matching 2 outside notches. When folding panel in half to baste tuck, shock cord casing should be on the outside.
Step 8: Lay front panel flat, facing upwards. Flatten the tuck. Use pins to center the tuck, matching all three pattern notches. Sew with a basting stitch and a narrow seam allowance. This seam will later be covered with the grosgrain binding.
Step 9: Bind top of back panel with the 1 1/2″ grosgrain binding tape, trim grosgrain ends to be even with mesh.
Step 10: Baste front panel to back panel, making sure shock cord casing and basted tuck is facing outwards.
Step 11: Bind sides with 1 1/2″ grosgrain, then bottom. Trim ends.
Step 12: Pull out basting stitch from bottom center tuck.
Step 13: Sew a reinforcement seam on two bottom corners, ½” inset from corner.
Step 14: Thread flat edge opening of attachable cord lock with 2” x ½” grosgrain. Bar tack tab near the cord lock to create a tab. Repeat for remaining three tabs. Trim and fuse (with flame) all grosgrain raw ends.
Step 15: Attach cord lock tab to each corner. Make 4-5 passes on grosgrain tab for bar tack. Sew 2 bar tacks for each tab. Top cord locks point outwards, bottom cord locks point upwards.
Simple instructions for basic functional rain mitts. Features an easy to use drawstring requiring the use of only one hand.
Note: this can also be done as a no-sew project, using seam tape in place of regular seams
Step 1: To create your own pattern, draw a mitten shape slightly larger then your hand, allowing for range of motion, as well as seam allowance. Add a 3/4″ x 2″ tab on inside wrist corner. See photo below for reference.
Step 2: Fold in both 2” tabs on outside corners and hem. This will finish/reinforce drawstring channel opening.
Step 3: Fold straight edge in and sew a ¾” hem, creating the drawstring channel.
Step 4: Fold in half, right sides together. Start seam at wrist, perpendicular to drawstring channel. Sew around edge of mitt until you reach the fold where the two sides come together. When sewing the inside curve of the thumb, avoid making a “v” shape with your seam. A rounded curve is more durable then a sharp corner . Backtack at start and finish of seam.
Step 5: Use a bodkin to thread Dutch Cord through drawstring channel. (If you don’t have a bodkin a large safety pin works well for this) Thread only one strand through mini cord lock. Knot, fuse ends with flame.
Instructions for a “catch all” to organize all your odds and ends that never have a specific place in your pack. Features include: a mesh pocket for smaller items, a small hanging loop, a small key ring hook, and a large hip belt loop.
Step 1: Cut all pattern pieces from mesh and liteskin, following directions from each pattern piece.
Pattern Piece Measurements:
Top and Bottom 7″ x 5″
Back Wall 2″ x 4″
Side Wall 17″ x 1 1/2″
Hip Belt 5″ x 4 5/8″
Step 2: Cut 1/2″ grosgrain into 2 pieces measuring 2 1/2″ and 4 1/4″ .
Backpacking is a uniquely invigorating way to reconnect with nature — and with yourself. Those who wander the trail for a time often find themselves able to think more clearly when freed from the noise of their normal, busy home lives. Whether you’re backpacking solo or with others, something about the fresh air and physical push beyond your comfort zone enables you to clear any cobwebs from your mind.
Make the most of this beautiful backpacking benefit. Keeping track of your adventure in written form will help you to remember the little details and reflect on what you’re thinking and feeling. Savor your backpacking experience to the utmost with these five travel journal prompts.
1. Close Your Eyes and Describe Your Surroundings
This journal prompt is one way to engage your other senses. When it comes to backpacking, our eyes are obviously on full alert and soaking in every sight around. But there’s a world that often goes unnoticed when it comes to the scents, sounds, and feel of the trail. Close your eyes and let your other senses take the driver’s seat — record whatever you notice about your surroundings.
2. Describe a View That Took Your Breath Away
Is there a particular sight from your backpacking experience so far that’s been particularly stunning? It might have been the picturesque overlook you were hiking toward, or you might have found an unexpected view when you turned a corner and found a glacier lying beneath you. Whatever the moment, write about it in as much detail as possible — or even try to sketch it — so you can bring the scene to life when you reread it later.
3. Write About a Moment You Won’t Forget
Life is made up of a long, winding series of moments we deem unforgettable — yet when they’re all stacked on top of each other, little moments can slip to the sidelines over time. Turn these moments into memories with this journal prompt. Whether it was the moose you stumbled a little too close to, the sound of the owls as you lay in your sleeping bag, or the feeling when you summited the peak, bring it to life through your journal.
4. Write About an Unexpected Item You’re Glad You Brought — and One You Wish You’d Remembered
Write about an item that became the unexpected hero of the trip and something you wish you’d had with you. How did this item save the day? How would the missing item have come in handy — and how did you creatively troubleshoot its absence? Don’t forget to reread this journal entry when you pack for the next backpacking expedition.
5. Describe Something That Surprised You About This Hike
Here, you’ll have the chance to reflect on your expectations and experience for your backpacking trip. The question is broad enough to let you fill in the blanks. It could be a positive surprise or a negative one — something practical or something philosophical. Unpack your time in nature by focusing on a key takeaway that you weren’t expecting.
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Backpacking Adventure With Dutchware
At Dutchware, our lightweight and easy to use hammocks and equipment for DIY gear-making give you the highest quality at the utmost convenience for your adventure. Don’t forget to pack a journal to make the most of your experience with these writing prompts! Browse our gear selection today.
When it comes to backpacking or hiking, many people would consider a pillow a necessity. Whether you’re looking for a more economical option or you want to get started on a new project, making a backpacking pillow yourself can be a quick and simple process, even for beginners. Follow our DIY instructions to make your own lightweight backpacking pillow.
The Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail and the Appalachian Trail make up the “Triple Crown” of thru-hiking. As a first-time thru-hiker, it can be overwhelming to think about completing a 2,000-mile or 3,000-mile hike. How many miles should you hike each day?
The key to thru-hiking for beginners is to pace yourself. During the first days and weeks, plan to hike shorter distances, then work your way up as you gain experience — plan plenty of zero-mileage days in town for much-needed rest.
Check out our ultimate mileage cheat sheet for planning your AT, PCT or CDT thru-hike. We explain what conditions to expect at the start of each trail and how many miles per day to hike in the first few weeks of your journey.
The Appalachian Trail: What to Expect
More than 3,000 hikers attempt to thru-hike The Appalachian Trail each year. Daily encounters with hikers, multiple shelters and rustic privys make the Appalachian Trail a perfect thru-hike for a beginner.
Starting Conditions: The steep approach trail to Springer Mountain adds eight miles to your first day’s mileage. If you’re starting in the spring, be prepared for any weather, including drops in temperature and thunderstorms.
Mileage Goals: Start with averaging eight to 10 miles a day. In Georgia, take your time to avoid injury and give your body a chance to adjust. You can gradually increase to 15 to 20 miles per day when you enter North Carolina.
The Pacific Crest Trail: What to Expect
Designated as a National Scenic Trail in 1968, the Pacific Crest Trail has gained in popularity over the years, in part due to Cheryl Strayed’s memoir “Wild.” You’ll encounter diverse and beautiful landscapes, from the Mojave desert to the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas.
Northbound Start Point: United States-Mexico border near Campo, California
Northbound End Point: United States-Canada border near Manning Park, Washington
Total Miles:2,653
Starting Conditions: The start of the PCT is notorious — 700 miles of desert with rough elevation gains. You’ll spend the first few weeks trekking up and down desert peaks and valleys. The trail can stretch as far as 25 miles without a water source, so err on the side of carrying too much water (about two gallons).
Mileage Goals: Try for eight miles a day for the first week or so. Unless you live in a desert climate, you’ll need to get used to the 100-degree Fahrenheit temperatures. Monitor your water supply and test how much water you can carry in your pack at one time. After a few weeks, you can increase your mileage to 15 to 20 miles per day.
The Continental Divide Trail: What to Expect
The CDT is known for being remote, wild and unfinished. It’s recommended for more experienced hikers, but with planning, maps and a hiking buddy or two, you can accomplish this feat regardless of skill level.
Northbound Start Point: United States-Mexico border near Hachita, New Mexico
Northbound End Point: United States-Canada border near Glacier National Park, Montana
Total Miles:3,100
Starting Conditions: Depending on when you begin, you’ll encounter moderately hot temperatures and intense New Mexico sunshine. The trail begins on easy, relatively flat land — perfect for getting your bearings.
Mileage Goals: Aim for eight miles a day at the start. Keep an eye on your water supply and how many miles until the next water cache. Gradually increase your distance per day to 15 to 20 miles or more.
Camping is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors. Laying under the stars surrounded by the sounds of nature is the perfect way to fall asleep. As any adventure enthusiast knows, getting a comfortable night’s rest can be difficult without the right backpacking and camping materials.
The team at Dutchware knows how important comfort and convenience are during your trip. We’ve even provided tips for sleeping comfortably in a hammock. We believe that all travelers should learn about the benefits of sleeping in a hammock so they can maximize their enjoyment.
There are many reasons to sleep in a hammock — perhaps the most significant is that certain hammock styles provide advantages that deliver a restful experience no matter where your journeys take you.
Although it might not be the first thing that comes to mind, air circulation is highly important when you sleep, especially if you’re camping. Trust us — once you’ve spent a night in a hammock, you’ll never want to sleep in a muggy tent again!
We explore the great outdoors to connect with nature, and it may come as no surprise to learn that simply inhaling the fresh air that our green spaces create is enough to positively impact our well-being.
Fresh air aids our digestive system, improves our cardiovascular health, brightens our mood, strengthens our immune system, cleans our lungs and improves our cognition and energy levels. Lounging and sleeping in a hammock allows you to surround yourself with this fresh air all night long.
Ventilation is another concern that you won’t have to worry about when sleeping in an open hammock, or a bugnet or netless hammock — versus one with a top cover.
Hammock sleeping keeps your body dry and off the ground — but air circulating under you can make you feel colder quicker, which you might know as Cold Butt Syndrome (CBS). This is where an under quilt can keep your bum toasty.
But for hot summer nights, with air free to circulate around your hammock, your body can easily stay dry and cool with breathable hammock fabrics. These fabrics prevent moisture from building up while you sleep. Sweat and condensation are whisked off your body and the hammock alike, which helps regulate your body temperature and keeps your sleeping quarters dry.
Believe it or not, the way you choose to fall asleep at night has an effect on your quality of sleep.
You may sleep in one or more of these positions throughout the night: on your back, on your stomach, on your side or in the fetal position. Although these positions are chosen based on personal preference, each of them impacts everybody’s body in the same ways. Stomach sleeping is considered the least desirable position because it does not keep the spine in a neutral position and places pressure on muscles and joints. The fetal position is also unfavorable because it restricts diaphragm breathing and strains your back and hips.
Side sleeping is a better position for your body because it elongates your spine and keeps your airways open. But sleeping on your back is the best way because it keeps the spine, neck and head in natural positions. This can help relieve back or neck pain and reduce acid reflux. Compare that to stomach sleeping, in which your neck is turned at a 90-degree angle and your stomach contents may get worked up into your esophagus. It’s easy to see why back positions are the best.
The best sleep for your body keeps your spine in a natural alignment throughout the night. If possible, keeping your head elevated is also very beneficial. While you could achieve this with a sleeping bag, you run the risk of reverting back to your normal position overnight. Hammocks allow you to comfortably sleep on your back with your head elevated. Your spine will stay aligned and prevent pressure on your bones.
When we think about getting a good night’s rest, many people often associate “quantity” of sleep with “quality” of sleep.
Sleeping in on the weekend or catching up on sleep may seem like a way to feel more rested, but our actual quality of sleep relies on our sleep cycles. There are five different sleep stages that can be separated into two categories: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM. As you sleep, your brain moves through all five stages throughout the night.
The initial sleep stage is very light and only lasts for a few minutes. As you transition into the second stage, your brain waves continue to slow down. The third and fourth stages of sleep are considered deep sleep because your eye and muscle activity stops. These stages help the body heal and build up energy. Within 90 minutes, the body enters the REM stage, which can last as long as an hour. You’ll enter this stage multiple times each night as the brain processes and stores information.
Your body needs to naturally progress through these cycles over the course of the night. Unfortunately, many people find that their sleep cycles are interrupted throughout the night. These disturbances cause more than just feeling tired in the morning — they can negatively affect your physical and mental health. A failure to successfully move through the sleep cycles can slow your reflexes, decrease your ability to retain knowledge, cause moodiness, and prevent your body from removing harmful toxins. The constant resetting of the sleep cycle prevents deep sleep.
When you consider the many benefits of sleeping in a hammock, it’s not difficult to see how the hammock’s design naturally helps people achieve and sustain a deeper sleep. Stretching out in a hammock allows you to keep your body in the perfect position for maximum bodily comfort. With an aligned spine and elevated head, you keep pressure off your joints, relax your muscles and enable your body to comfortably settle down for the night.
Studies are also lending support to the idea that the swaying motion of a hammock encourages a faster transition into sleep. Not only is sleep induced in these conditions but it is also sustained. The motion may help increase the duration of the second sleep stage, which is typically the stage of the cycle we spend approximately half of our night in. As research identifies the ways brain waves react to the swaying motion while moving through the sleep cycle, hammock sleeping may help mitigate sleeping disorders.
While some men and women need a comfortable space to feel well-rested through the night, there are many others who suffer from insomnia that prevents them from getting the sleep they need. As many as 40 million people experience insomnia, which is the most common sleep disorder in the country.
Insomnia is more than just occasional sleeplessness — it can last for days or even weeks at a time. Acute and chronic insomnia may be caused by depression, anxiety, food or drink consumption, unhealthy lifestyle habits or other issues.
Sleeping in a hammock can potentially benefit those who suffer from insomnia. Research conducted in a variety of studies suggests that the swaying motion of a hammock can help the body fall into a deep sleep faster. They parallel this idea with the success many parents have while rocking their babies to sleep. Men and women are undergoing tests to see if the swaying motion can lead to longer periods of sleep and potential treatments for those diagnosed with insomnia.
The key element seems to be the changes in brain activity experienced when a person is attempting to fall asleep while being gently rocked by a hammock. Of the five different sleep stages, swaying is thought to increase the length of the second stage, in which we spend nearly half of our sleep cycle. This motion also increases the number of “sleep spindles,” which are associated with the brain trying to keep the sleep cycle calm during the presence of distractions like external noise.
Though further testing is required, many individuals reported positive results after sleeping in a hammock. One study concluded that hammock sleeping may be a potential cure for some cases of insomnia. While every individual’s experience with insomnia differs, evidence points to hammock sleeping improving the quality and length of sleep for all sleepers, including those diagnosed with sleeping disorders.
If you’re an avid tent camper, you likely understand the struggle of sleeping on cold, wet ground all night. Plus, if you don’t have many options for location, you could find yourself on rough and bumpy terrain. This isn’t the ideal way to snuggle up while camping, especially after a long day of hiking.
Hammocks eliminate these problems, elevating you off the ground for comfortable and high-quality sleep. Since a hammock relieves some of the pressure on your spine, you’ll likely experience a more restful and rejuvenating snooze, preparing you for another day of breathtaking views.
After a long day, all you want to do is put your feet up and relax. Before you do that, however, you’ll have to set up your hammock. Luckily, one of the significant benefits of sleeping in a hammock is the little time it takes to start hanging!
Most hammocks come with convenient instructions, which usually start with finding the perfect set of trees. Once that’s done, all you have to do is tie your tree-safe straps to the trees, clip in your hammock, and secure any tarps or quilts you want to use. Once it’s secure, you’ll be ready to hop in and sway yourself to sleep in no time.
Remember that you should aim to hang your hammock at a 30-degree angle and no more than 18 inches off the ground for the most comfortable and safe use.
Reap The Benefits Of Sleeping In A Hammock With Hammocks From Dutchware
Your time outdoors should be exciting, amusing and memorable. Unfortunately, a poor night’s sleep can make you feel groggy, irritable and fatigued when you should be having fun. Make sure you have the best sleep possible with a hammock from Dutchware. We offer reliable hammocks made from high-quality materials that provide the comfort you need for a peaceful night sleeping under the stars. These lightweight backpacking hammocks are ideal for short weekend trips to the campground and long treks where campsites may be sparse.
Ready to experience the best sleep you’ve ever had while camping? Contact our team at Dutchware and we’ll help you select the hammock that caters to your outdoor lifestyle.
In this video tutorial series, TwoFoolsWalking will take us step by step on how to create an ultralight backpack!
For anyone who may be looking to make their own backpack as opposed to buying one, this video series provides important information as well as clear and easy-to-follow steps on how to complete the process. Follow along as they use Dutchware Gear fabric to create their ultralight backpack.
Be sure to check out the videos and images below for full details on how to make your very own backpack, and see the finished product below.
Whether you’re a veteran backpacker or a newcomer on the trails, making your own outdoor gear is a rewarding, cost-effective way to meet your backpacking and camping needs.
Starting a new activity, like do-it-yourself (DIY) camping gear, can be challenging at first. Embrace the opportunity to learn new skills, including how to use a sewing machine. You’ll be rewarded with high-quality camping equipment built according to your specifications.
Here are five tips and tricks as you dive into DIY outdoor gear.
1. Embrace the Learning Curve
When it comes to creating your own gear, passion is more important than sewing experience. You might be a natural-born sewer or may have never used a sewing machine in your life. Either way, you’ll likely encounter a learning curve. Stick with it — creating your own equipment pays off with an innovative product you can be proud of.
2. Start Small and Work Up to Bigger Projects
Practice really does make perfect. You may be itching to create a quilt or make your own bridge hammock, but we recommend honing your skills with smaller projects first.
Start by sewing a Climashield pillow, pack cover kit or drawstring backpack. Then, enjoy the fruits of your labor on your next backpacking trip. These beginner-level DIY projects are the perfect starting point.
3. Get Creative With Your Backpacking DIY Projects
When measuring your fabric, use a sturdy ruler and mark the fabric with chalk. It’s good practice to leave extra room for seam allowances to avoid having to recut the pattern. When in doubt, measure again!
If you’re new to working with fabric, buy 25% more yardage than you expect to use. That way, when you make mistakes, you won’t have to put the project on hold to order extra fabric.
5. Ask for Help
As a new member of the DIY outdoor gear community, you have many resources to help you navigate challenges while designing and building your own equipment. Plus, if you know someone with sewing experience, use them as a handy resource to grow your skills.
5 Benefits of Creating DIY Camping & Backpacking Gear
Making camping and backpacking gear on your own can be a fantastic experience because it helps you realize just how capable and courageous you really are. It’s empowering to know you don’t actually need constant access to technology or plumbing, or even to sleep in your own bed. In fact, you can be just fine in the wilderness — even without specialized camping gear.
Homemade backpacking, hiking and camping gear comes with several perks, including:
1. Lower Costs
DIY camping and backpacking gear is often less expensive than commercial equipment. These days, it’s entirely possible to make a comparable piece of equipment for far less than what it would cost to buy it.
2. Aesthetics
DIY camping gear challenges your skill, creativity, and discipline, much like any other do-it-yourself project. Aesthetics here refers to the way something is done — and the joy of that journey often trumps the end result.
3. The Joy of Customization
Make gear that meets your specifications, including color, fabric type, sizing, and other features.
4. Innovation
Much of the recent advancements in ultralight camping and backpacking gear can be attributed to DIYers and other businesses not afraid to play around with unconventional designs. As a beginner or expert, making your own gear will put you up there with those individuals striving to make outdoor fun more cost-effective, creative, and personalized.
5. Simplification
DIY camping gear allows you to remove extra features on an item and strip it down to its primary functions. You’re not held captive by market trends when you exercise self-sufficiency in making your own gear. For instance, maybe all the major camping gear companies came out with bigger and better hip belt pockets to outdo one another and vie for your attention — but hip belt pockets aren’t your thing. Well, you’ve just simplified your gear to meet your own preferences.
From basic equipment to specialized, customizable gear, our inventory offers innovative, high-quality products for any skill level. Our use of cutting-edge materials reduces your gear’s weight for ultra-light backpacking.
Want to bring your unique vision for DIY gear to life? Reach out to us online. For the latest DIY tips, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Check Out Our DIY Guides
If you’re ready to get started with making your own hiking gear, check out some of our DIY guides below:
