There are many hammock instructables of varying complexities this is a very simple method. This is not necessarily better than any others but I find it is often a good idea to have multiple ways of doing the same thing so I thought I would share my way of making a hammock on instructables.

This method creates a very flat hammock that is stable and easy to get in and out of.

Step 1: Equipment

A tarpaulin that is about a meter longer than you.

2 lengths of paracord the length depends on the distance between and size of the two trees. Generally 5m is a little short and 10m is plenty (but as always it is a good idea to have extra).

2 strong straight sticks with any sharp points removed.

Step 2: Roll Sticks in Tarpaulin

Roll the sticks in ends of the tarpaulin as many times as it takes to get the desired length this needs to be at least 4 times to securely attach the sticks. If you are looking from the side of the hammock one stick should be rolled clockwise and one anti-clockwise.

Turn the hammock over so that the sticks are underneath.

Step 3: Wrap Paracord Around Tree

Find the middle of one of the lengths of paracord and place this so it is on one of the trees on the side of the hammock and take both ends all the way around the tree in opposite directions.

Step 4: Tie Paracord to Sticks

To attach the paracord to the sticks we are going to use a no-knot with a bowline (or any fixed loop) to secure the working end to the standing end.

The no-knot is one of the strongest ways to attach a line to a cylindrical object the friction generated by the turns also stops the sticks from turning which is why it is used here.

To tie the no-knot wrap each end of the paracord around each end of the stick where it protrudes outside of the tarpaulin. It is very important that the paracord is wrapped in the opposite direction to the tarpaulin and that there are enough turns to provide enough friction this number will vary with the size of the stick and the roughness of the bark.
Tie off the working end of the paracord to the standing end with a bowline.

Repeat this with the other end of the hammock ensuring to get a fair amount of tension on the hammock.

Step 5: Finished!

If you get a chance to try it be sure to leave a comment to let me know how you got on!

I have entered this for the outside competition, your vote would be greatly appreciated!