Originally Posted by
cmoulder
Going back to the original goal — tarp tensioning system, no hardware, single handed — reminds me that you can also accomplish all this with a simple Midshipman's Hitch (slipped version) as long as you're using any cord that holds friction knots well, such as braided polyester.
Once the tarp guy line is tied around the tree, just hook an index finger over the Midshipman's hitch and pull toward the tarp. Pull the tag end to release. Easy-peasy.
I've been using this method with 2mm Glowire for a long time with no slippage. With a DCF tarp the ridge and guy lines are just as taut in the morning as when pitched the previous evening.