How to Build Cargo Nets at Home

How to Build Cargo Nets at Home
Written By
Harvey Birdman
Harvey Birdman
Published: Dec 3, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

The amount of time taken by this project will depend upon how big of a net you want to make and how strong you want the end points to be.

Things You Will Need

  • Nylon rope
  • Zip ties
  • Blowtorch
  • Goggles
  • Respirator mask
  1. Measure the size of the cargo net you want. For example, for a truck bed cargo net you would measure the bed and add 10 percent for some give in the design. Find a dry open area that is clear of foot traffic to lay out your tools.

  2. Cut lengths of nylon rope the length of your measurement (with the added 10 percent for give as nylon rope does not stretch). Lay down one length away from you and then another line perpendicular to the previous line. Wrap one line around the other so that they switch direction, the one going away now going perpendicular to its previous direction.

  3. Repeat the layering of lengths of nylon rope with the perpendicular wrapping where they overlap. When you have a net the area of your measurement, stop adding rope. Attach zip ties at each overlap to secure the ropes, pull it as tight as you can because the nylon is very smooth and can slip through.

  4. Wrap the end of each rope back on itself to form a loop no more than a few inches across. Place a wooden board under the loop and tape it down. Use a blow torch to affix the end of the rope back onto itself while wearing a respirator mask and goggles. Do this until the nylon end has fused back into itself, forming a complete loop.

The Drip Cap

  • Building a cargo net at home is entirely possible for even the most inexperienced of craftspeople; it requires no special skills.
  • All a homemade cargo net really requires is time.
  • Cut lengths of nylon rope the length of your measurement (with the added 10 percent for give as nylon rope does not stretch).
  • Wrap the end of each rope back on itself to form a loop no more than a few inches across.

Photo Credits

green nylon rope image by Steve Lovegrove from Fotolia.com

green nylon rope image by Steve Lovegrove from Fotolia.com

Harvey Birdman

Harvey Birdman has been writing since 2000 for academic assignments. He has trained in the use of LexisNexus, Westlaw and Psychnotes. He holds a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration from the Chicago Kent School of Law and a…

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