Make sure the hammock is not too high so that you can easily get into it, but bear in mind that a new hammock will stretch, so make sure it is high enough so that you are not sitting too low when you get into it. Our new hammocks will sink about 50cm after you sit in a new unused hammock, so hang it at least 50cm higher than where it will eventually hang. The hammock should hang in a nice arc. Not too steep if you want to lie in it, but if you also want to use it to sit with your back to the suspension point, it should hang in a stronger arc at a 90 degree angle to the wall. We find it useful to extend the hammock on at least one side with a piece of hempex or polyester rope, so that you can play with it when adjusting the height. Small children should have the hammock in a lower position, but don’t forget to raise the hammock again when a more adult sits in it, otherwise that person could end up with a thud on the ground. We use the sheet bend for easy height adjustment.
Stand with your back to the hammock and pull the hammock against one leg with one hand and pull the hammock up behind you with the other hand, so that it is spread out properly. Then sit in it. Do NOT walk backwards, because then the hammock will swing when you step into it. You can then lie down in the hammock. In width if it is wide enough or otherwise diagonally. If you lie in it straight from suspension point to suspension point, the hammock will close. If it is hanging at a good angle, so that you lie a little more upright, you can get in like that, but then hold the hammock open a little with your elbows or spread it open with your arms. You also do this if the hammock hangs steeper and you can sit in it. Hammock instructions .
