Do it yourself: how to hang mosquito netting around your hammock

Relaxing in your hammock can be a great way to spend a lazy afternoon or evening, until the mosquitoes start to bite you. Mosquitoes aren't the only flying insects that you want to protect yourself against, but if you hang mosquito netting around your hammock properly, then you will be protected against most every insect that lives in the great outdoors.

Mosquito netting is a rather special material because it is made up of tiny cells that allow air in, yet it keeps flying insects out. It has changed and evolved over the years as well, because you can now purchase different types of mosquito netting. Some are not only functional, but decorative too, while others can provide a romantic, tropical - effect to your backyard hammock. Not only are these nettings attractive, but they are durable and functional too. And, netting isn't limited to hammocks either, because it can be draped across picnic tables, hot tubs, et cetera, for outdoor protection against insect bites and the West Vile Virus.

You can either purchase yards of mosquito netting that comes in lengths and widths, or you can purchase manufactured nettings that have built - in zippered side openings, so that you can get in and out of them easily. Mosquito netting comes in a standard-hole size, which is about two hundred hole per square inch. Or, you might choose a finer mesh that is about five hundred holes per square inch. And, finally, if you want privacy, in addition to protection from mosquitoes, you can purchase opaque netting that is over six hundred holes per square inch. Whatever type of netting you choose, make sure it is waterproof and durable enough for outdoor use. Check your local camping supply store for availability.

Be sure to purchase netting that is durable, waterproof, and made for outdoor use. Whatever style you choose, you will need to string a rope a few feet above your hammock, connecting it at each end from one tree to another. Then, you will need to pull the middle of the mosquito netting up to the rope and attach it to the rope with either clamps or spring - loaded clothes pins. This will keep the netting from drooping down on your body. You can also use either clamps or spring - loaded clothes pins to attach the netting to the sides of your hammock too, especially if the netting is plain, and not manufactured.

You can also hang mosquito netting around your hammock by making a frame out of cane wood. Measure the length and the width of your hammock, then measure and cut four pieces of cane - two for the length and two for the width. Form the pieces into a rectangle on a flat surface. Then, tie the ends together with four pieces of durable, waterproof rope. Lay a large piece - enough to cover your hammock, plus, enough to hang down to the ground - of mosquito netting over the cane wood frame. Make sure the netting is centered, then staple it securely to the frame.

Hang the cane wood frame just above your hammock by using tree branches and additional durable rope. (If there are no branches available, you can mount the frame on four cane posts.) Then, spread the mosquito netting out so that it drapes gracefully over your hammock on all sides. Finally, you use your hammock to rest or nap in in your back yard all you want now. Now you don't have to worry about waking up full of bug bites, and you can rest easier knowing that you are somewhat protected from the threat of the West Nile virus.