With weaving techniques dating back to the early 15th century, native artisans handcraft pure cotton and high-tech nylon into incredible hammocks of unrivaled quality. The hammocks themselves are made of 100% cotton to provide the maximum amount of comfort possible. The end strings are made of nylon to provide greater strength and durability to support the hammock.

The Mayan hammocks are made by more than 500 families on open air looms, or in tiny huts, in the remote villages of Chumayel, Teabo, Pencuyut, Mama, Sacapac, and Muna. These villages are in Southeast Mexico in the Yucatán Peninsula, where the hammocks are made just as they were by the villagers' Mayan ancestors. The looms are very simple, consisting of an open four-sided frame that stands up vertically. The cotton thread is woven between the two upright pieces of wood, so that the length of the loom determines the length of the hammock. The width of the hammock is determined by how high the weaver decides to weave the thread.

Each hammock has more than two miles of quality cord and can take an experienced weaver up to 90 hours to complete. Soft to the touch, they are incredibly strong. Some can support more than 800 pounds! Compared to its strength, the hammock is surprisingly light. A Mayan hammock weighs about two pounds and folds into a bundle the size of a loaf of bread.

For nearly 500 years, Maya Indians have used hammocks as beds. While for most us they are a leisurely form of relaxation, for these villagers they are the main piece of furniture in the house. During the day, the hammocks serve as chairs and couches, and during the night they serve as beds and mattresses. Not surprisingly, these hammocks turn out to be practically ideal for resting in. According to The Journal of the American Medical Association, woven cotton and nylon hammocks “provide excellent back support” and are, in many ways, the “ultimate tool for relieving stress.” The reason for this is that these hammocks do not use spreader bars, so the hammock is free to conform to your body, comfortably surrounding you and supporting you without creating any pressure points. No wonder the villagers have no problem using them all the time!

It is perfectly natural for the cotton to stretch slightly while the hammock is being used. However, since the material is pure cotton, it should be used with care, as buttons and zippers can catch and pull the thread, pulling loops out of the fabric. Also, make sure to bring the hammock inside before a heavy rain or wind, and never fold up the hammock for storage if is wet. This could cause mildew to grow on the hammock, which is difficult to get off. Always make sure the hammock is dry before you put it away.

Copyright 2006, www.OutdoorDecor.com
Jason Way, OutdoorDecor.com Staff Writer