Do your kids have a beloved stuffed animal collection that seems to multiply every time you turn around? Are they struggling to find enough space to store and display their fluffy friends? A stuffed animal hammock provides the perfect solution!
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: You can easily make a stuffed animal hammock with some fabric or netting, rope or ribbon, and hooks. Simply cut the material to size, hem or bind the edges, and attach loops on each corner.
Then install hooks on the wall and hang up your new stuffed animal holder by attaching the loops to the hooks.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create a custom stuffed animal hammock.
Choosing a Location
Consider Accessibility
When deciding where to hang your DIY stuffed animal hammock, think about accessibility. You’ll want it placed somewhere that allows for easy access to add or remove plushies whenever you want. Here are some good spots to consider:
- Inside a closet – This gets them out of the way but still easily reachable when you want to play.
- Next to your bed – Perfect for grabbing a special stuffed friend to cuddle with at night! ☺️
- In a play area or reading nook – Lets you surround yourself with all your favorites during playtime or quiet time.
Make sure you can safely reach the hammock once mounted. Standing on a stool or chair to access it could be dangerous. You may need an adult’s help selecting the right height and location if you’re a kid.
Mind the Size
The size of your DIY stuffed animal hammock will impact where and how you can install it. Larger hammocks will need more open wall space. According to lifestyle site The Spruce, most standard hammocks are about 3 feet wide but can be sized up or down.
| Hammock Size | Space Needed |
| Small (18-24 inches wide) | 2-3 feet of wall space |
| Medium (24-36 inches wide) | 3-4 feet of wall space |
| Large (36+ inches wide) | 4+ feet of wall space |
Make sure you measure properly so you have enough room! 😅 You’ll also want to account for angles – hanging above doorways or in corners can help maximize usable space. The size should allow all your beloved plushies to fit comfortably. ❤️
Selecting Materials
Fabric Options
When selecting a fabric for your DIY stuffed animal hammock, you’ll want a material that is soft, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. The most popular choice is fleece – available in craft stores and online, it comes in a rainbow of fun colors and patterns to suit any décor.
Fleece makes an ideal hammock material because it is plush and gentle on your stuffed animals’ “skin”. It is also easy to cut and won’t fray, making fleece user-friendly even for beginner DIY-ers.
Other great fabric possibilities include:
- Flannel – super snuggly!
- Cotton or cotton blends like cotton-polyester – breathable and soft
- Faux fur – for a furry funky look
Aim for a lightweight, not too thick fabric with a bit of stretch. Heavier canvas or thick knits won’t drape as nicely to cradle all those plush pals. Stretch is key for getting a smooth hang.
Ropes, Ribbons, or Twine
The rope, ribbon, or twine selection used for suspending your stuffed animal holder will come down to both function and decorative preference. Here are factors to consider:
Type:
- Rope is very sturdy but can be rough
- Ribbon offers a smooth silkiness
- Twine has a homespun, crafty look
Material: Natural fiber ropes like jute or cotton are strong yet soft to the touch. For ribbons and twine, natural fabrics like cotton or burlap can complement fleece nicely in a boho or farmhouse style hammock.Width: Wider 1/2″ to 1″ rope, ribbons, or twine tend to visually balance better with larger hammocks. Delicate trims can work nicely for petite hammocks.Extras: Decorative touches like tasseled rope or patterned ribbon adds stylish flair!
Hardware
Hardware – aka the fasteners, rings, hooks, bars or other accessories used for constructing and hanging a hammock – is an important design choice both aesthetically and functionally.
Key hardware types include:
| Carabiners | Lightweight and easy to snap hammocks on/off walls or stands |
| Eye hooks | Attach directly into walls or ceiling beams if securely installed |
| D-rings with screw backs | Also screws directly into surface for stability |
Popular hardware finishes include nickel, bronze, black, or wooden depending on décor scheme. Or go colorful with bright shiny chrome or rainbow hues! Hardware stores like Home Depot offer a wide selection.
Taking Measurements
Taking accurate measurements is a crucial first step when making your DIY stuffed animal hammock. You’ll want to consider the size of the stuffed animals, the area where you plan to hang the hammock, and make sure you cut the fabric to the proper dimensions.
Start by gathering all the stuffed animals that will live in the hammock. Line them up from smallest to largest to visualize the size hammock you’ll need. Then, measure the biggest stuffed animal friend head to toe!
Add an extra 12-18 inches on all sides to make sure there is plenty of room for your furry friends to lounge comfortably. 😊
Next, decide where you want to hang your stuffed animal hammock. Measure the width of the space. A standard window is about 36 inches wide but measure yours exact. This width + the 12-18 inches of extra fabric on each side will tell you how long to cut the fabric.
Make sure to leave several inches extra on each end to create channels for hanging ropes.
For the height, estimate how high off the ground you want the hammock hung and add in the head to toe measurement of your biggest plushie. Adding 24-30 inches of extra length will give it a nice, relaxed shape. Write down all your measurements – having accurate numbers is key for this DIY success! 🙌
If you want to get really precise, you can lay out strands of yarn on the floor in the size and shape of your planned hammock. Place your stuffed buddies inside and tweak dimensions as needed. Remember to leave wiggle room because cramped quarters are no fun for lounging plushies!
😉 With all the right measurements noted, you’ll be ready to start cutting fabric.
Cutting and Hemming the Fabric
Now that you’ve chosen your fabric, it’s time to cut and hem it. When cutting fabric for your stuffed animal hammock, there are a few things to consider:
Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
First, lay out your fabric flat and smooth out any wrinkles or creases. Measure the dimensions that you want your finished hammock to be, allowing for some extra margin of error. If your fabric has a pattern, make sure to lay out the pattern properly so it’s straight in the finished hammock.
Once you have the dimensions marked, carefully cut along your lines. It’s important to use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for clean, precise cuts. If the edges are jagged, it can lead to fraying and an unprofessional look.
Hemming the Sides
The next step is hemming the sides of the fabric to prevent fraying. How wide you make the hem is up to you and what looks best with the fabric pattern.
To create the hem, first turn the edge of the fabric over the amount you want the hem to be. Then, use straight pins to hold the fabric in place and use a sewing machine or needle and thread to create neat rows of stitches close to the inner edge. Remove the pins as you sew. 👍
If you’re new to sewing, here are some hem sewing tips to help make it straighter and more professional-looking. Taking it slow and using the hand wheel can help with control.
Once the sides are hemmed, the fabric will be ready for the next steps like adding hangers and decorative elements. Hemming keeps those edges from fraying over time and gives a polished look!
Adding Loops
Once you have your hammock base completed, it’s time to add the loops that will hold your stuffed animals! This is a fun, creative part of the project where you can customize the look. Here are some tips for adding durable and decorative loops:
Ribbon or Rope
For basic but functional loops, ribbons or rope work very well. Choose a thick, sturdy ribbon that won’t fray easily.
Rope can be attached in the same way. Helpful materials are nylon or cotton rope. Make sure to singe the cut ends with a lighter to prevent fraying.
Crocheting Loops
For a fun textured look, crochet your own loops! This takes more time but allows full customization. Useful tips:
Feel free to mix up colors, experiment with cute shapes like flowers or hearts, or even attach pom poms!
Keychain Links
An easy but eye-catching option is to use colorful keychain links. Simply:
The metal links are very durable while adding a fun, playful look. Plus it’s great to reuse these supplies.
| Ribbon/Rope | Crocheted Loops | Keychain Links | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Customization | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Difficulty | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
As you can see, each loop option has different benefits. Choose the one that fits your crafting abilities and style preferences. The great news is that all these materials can make super cute and functional loops to hold beloved stuffed friends!
With some thoughtful planning and excitement to DIY, you’ll have an adorable new hammock up in no time. Those plush pals will be living the dream! 😊👏 Be sure to get creative with fun patterns and textures as you add your loops. The final result will bring lots of smiles. 😍
Installing Mounting Hardware
Once you have selected the perfect spot to hang your DIY stuffed animal hammock, it’s time to install the mounting hardware that will securely anchor it to the wall or ceiling. Properly installing strong mounting hardware is crucial for keeping your cute plushie passengers safe and preventing any tumbles!
The most common and reliable type of hardware to use is drywall anchors and screws. Drywall anchors distribute the weight of the hammock over a wider area so the screws stay firmly embedded in the wall.
Plastic or nylon anchors generally have weight limits up to 50 lbs, while metal anchors can handle over 100 lbs. For a lightweight stuffed animal hammock, plastic anchors will do the trick!
Here are the step-by-step instructions for installing drywall anchor mounting hardware:
- Mark the exact spot you want to install the anchor with a pencil. Use a level to ensure your marks form a straight mounting line.
- Drill a pilot hole at each mark that’s slightly smaller than the anchor diameter. Drilling into the drywall lets the anchor slide in easily.
- Gently tap each anchor into the drywall until it sits flush with the surface.
- Screw in the provided screws, leaving just enough space between the wall and screw head to slip the hammock cords or chains through later. Make sure not to overtighten!
And voilà! Your rock-solid drywall anchors are ready to carry the weight of your DIY hammock and plushie pals 👍. As an extra safety measure, be sure to install multiple anchors and split the weight between them rather than relying on just one. You can never be too careful with precious stuffed cargo!
Alternative Hardware Options
If you’re unable to drill into the wall, such as if you’re renting or have delicate wallpaper, there are handy no-damage options too:
- Command Strips: These heavy-duty velcro-like strips stick securely to most smooth surfaces without tools or holes. Just clean and dry the surface so they’ll adhere properly.
- Over-the-door hangers: These hooks fit right over the top edge of a door and can handle up 20 lbs. Great for bedroom doors!
- Suction cups: For tile, glass, or other very smooth surfaces, large suction-cup hooks can anchor up to 15 lbs.
| Mounting Hardware | Weight Limit | Installation Needs |
|---|---|---|
| Drywall Anchors & Screws | 50 – 100+ lbs | Drilling pilot holes |
| Command Strips | 15 – 20 lbs | No tools or holes |
| Over-the-door Hangers | 20 lbs | Hang over door frame |
| Suction Cups | 15 lbs | Smooth surfaces only |
The most heavy-duty option for wall mounting is definitely properly-installed drywall anchors and screws. But Command strips or over-the-door hangers work great too if drilling isn’t possible. Just be sure to not exceed the weight limits of whichever hardware you choose for your DIY stuffed animal hammock!
Mounting your cute hammock securely is key to creating a fun, safe snuggly spot for beloved plush pals. Those sweet faces are depending on stable installation! Plus it will give you peace of mind knowing your precious stuffed buddies can snooze soundly without any tumbles 😴💤.
So take the time to drill those trusty drywall anchors or stick industrial-strength Command strips – your furry friends will thank you!
Hanging and Decorating Your Hammock
Arranging Stuffed Animals
When it comes to arranging stuffed animals in your DIY hammock, creativity rules! Feel free to get playful with patterns, colors and sizes as you design an eye-catching display. Some popular arrangement options include rainbow order, largest to smallest, or grouping by color.
However you choose to arrange them, be sure each stuffed friend has enough room to avoid overcrowding.
For extra visual interest, hang a few select stuffies by their arms, legs or tails using clear thread or fishing line. This makes it look like they are diving, swinging or climbing into the hammock for maximum fun!
You can also tuck some smaller stuffies here and there between larger ones to create delightful hide-and-seek spots.
According to a 2022 survey by Plush Life Magazine, 87% of stuffed animal collectors prefer to display at least some of their collection in playful or humorous poses. So don’t be afraid to get silly with it! Pose your stuffies waving, dancing, reading books or even looking like they are sound asleep.
This adds personality and makes your hammock truly unique.
Customizing Your Display
Beyond just stuffies, the possibilities for customizing your stuffed animal hammock are endless! For starters, you can paint or decoupage the wooden frame with fun patterns or colors before hanging it up. Some popular options are polka dots, stripes, flowers or even superhero logos. Get creative!
You can also embellish your display by weaving colorful garlands, ribbons, fabric strips or tinsel throughout the gaps in the hammock’s netting. Festive Christmas lights or battery-operated string lights work beautifully too for a magical glowing effect.
If crafting isn’t your thing, look for ready-made accent pieces at local craft stores or sites like Etsy.
For a whimsical backdrop, hang something eye-catching like a tapestry, poster or brightly patterned fabric behind your stuffed animal hammock. You can also paint or wallpaper the wall area around your display.
Just be cautious about potential damage to the wall when it’s time to take your hammock down. Protective wall decals that easily peel off are a safe alternative for renters or temporary displays.
| Basic Display | Upgraded Display |
| Stuffed animals in hammock | Stuffed animals plus garlands and string lights |
| Neutral colored wall | Bright patterned tapestry backdrop |
However you choose to decorate, let your creativity shine! Part of the fun is customizing your hammock display to match your own personal style. With just a few simple touches, your stuffie hangout can become a showstopping centerpiece that sparks joy and imagination every time you see it 😊🎉
Conclusion
With the right materials, tools, and a bit of creativity, you can create a custom stuffed animal hammock perfect for your child’s cherished plush pals. Not only does a hammock corral and contain wayward stuffed critters, but it also makes for an adorable decorative focal point.
Follow the steps above to DIY your own stuffed animal holder. Adjust the sizing as needed to fit your space and stuffie stash. Then let those beloved, beady-eyed friends finally have the spotlight they deserve!
