Hobbit Hole Build

[Sammit]

Thanks KC. The hatch is significantly heavy, but I'm sure a decent gust could blow it up. I don't think the current pole slots are big enough to support additional apparatus without being compromised though. Maybe a modified door chain latch? Hmm...

I thought about staples for the grass, but unless it was a paper-style stapler with a back end that crimps the staple, I'm sure they would just pull right out.
Maybe something like this?

I'd hate to buy one just for this

[KCStudly]

Strap the hatch down with a small ratchet or cam lock strap?

Not sure I can tell what the configuration is with the 'grass' from the pics.

[Sammit]

I do have a couple spare cam lock straps, maybe I'll just throw one in the back in case it gets windy. I usually camp where there are too many critters to leave food storage (even locked coolers) out in the open, so I'll be closing and locking the hatch anytime I'm not with the trailer.

[KCStudly]

I don't mean to beat a dead rat, but I truly would hate to see you have a problem.

I would suggest that you make sure that you have a good way to attach the straps (screw eyes maybe?) and that you use the strap regardless of conditions (they can change at a moments notice). Like wearing your seat belt in a car accident; there's no time to put it on during the accident so best to have it on all the time!

[Sammit]

Here's a picture of the mattress partially made. It's 45" x 75", and the layers are dense foam, pillow top, and memory foam on top.

[Sammit]

We got the grass all but completely installed last night, so I was able to attach the latches and handle to the hatch. This picture was difficult to get due to lighting, but you get the idea.
After everything else is done, we're going to be painting the exposed wood and signature HFT Red to a stone color.

[KennethW]

Right or wrong this is what I am going to do on mine. I will store the hatch poles fold up inside the hatch so the poles are parallel Or horizontal when closed. The hatch poles can be 46" long if I want. When I lift the hatch I will pull the pole down out. and place the end over a screw, so the head of the screw will hold the pole on if the wind wants to lift the hatch cover. I also used door hinges on the hatch but I used aluminum flashing bent in a V into the space (3/16)between the cover and the body. that way the aluminum only has to flex a little bit so it shouldn't crack and UV will not degrade it.

[Sammit]

That's exactly what I wanted to do Kenneth. Because my hatch is more curved than average, the spars I would have attached the poles to were too angled for me to use hinges and have them swing down (angle would be wrong). I like the look of these iron rods though, so I'm happy enough!

[Sammit]

Finished the build! You can view the rest of the pictures here: http://imgur.com/a/spiq4

[stonykill]

that looks absolutely incredible. You have inspired my next build . Very well done. I love it!

[pchast]

Love it.

The 'Grass' gives it the right touch.

[celticquetzel]

Ohhhhhh. It turned out so cute. I had to check back to your inspiration. You really captured it. Clever, original,and functional. Now go have some great trips (including posing for lots of photos for complete strangers!). :):):):):o

[S. Heisley]

You thought "outside the box" and it certainly is cute!

[Fyddler]

How funny! A friend just posted a pic of this on my Facebook from the Motion Picture Prop Company Facebook page.

[Junkboy999]

Definitely one of the cuties trailers, next or the ladybug TD. As you stated in your photo album, you really should find a way to pin that hatch support. let us know who the first tip turns out.