Meet the Crafters is a series of interviews from craftsmen and craftswomen in various areas of operation within Pawleys Island Hammocks production, including Hammocks and Furniture. In this interview you'll meet Flo, our hammock assembly team supervisor, who has over 26 years of experience in crafting hammocks.
Tell us a little about yourself?
I was born in raised in Mexico and moved to the United States when I was 14 years old. I currently supervise the Hammock Assembly Team.
How long have you been working at Pawleys Island Hammocks and what is your favorite part about working here?
I started working here in 1995, and I have loved every second of it! I love everything here and everyone I work with!
What are some things you like to do outside of work?
My favorite thing to do outside of work is spending quality time with family.
Can you give us a quick run-down of how the rope hammocks are made and assembled?
Once all the rope is braided together, it is put on a needle that the hammock weavers use to start handcrafting your rope hammock! When the bed of the rope hammock is completed, they tie on the already handcrafted ring knots and attach the varnished oak spreader bar to the body of the hammocks. The final step is attaching the Pawleys Island Hammocks logo on the spreader bar. An experienced weaver can handcraft a rope hammock in about 30-40 min. The finished product goes through the quality inspection where the skilled inspectors make sure your new hammock meets all quality standards and will deliver a long-lasting relaxation!
How would your fellow co-workers describe you?
I think they would describe me as hardworking.
What is your favorite part of the hammock-making process?
Tying on the ring knot would have to be my favorite part of handcrafting a Pawleys Island Rope Hammock. I love it because it's the final step of the hammock-making process, so you see all your hard work come to fruition!
Tell me about your biggest achievement?
My biggest accomplishment would be my 3 kids!
Top Left: A Ring Knot is meticulously handwoven by an expert weaver.
Top Right: The Ring Knot is attached to the body of a Rope Hammock.
Bottom Left: The Extra Rope at the end of the weave on a Hammock bed is removed with a hot gun.
Bottom Right: A thorough inspection is done at the completion of a Rope Hammock.