Tarp Fabric Opinion - $2.00/yard

[Spikestrip]

I bought 9 yards of digital camo ripstop nylon from Hanckco Fabrics in the clearance area (http://www.hancockfabrics.com/Green-...VVviewprod.htm), and would like some help.

It has a black, "rubberized" (silicone, I assume) backing, is really heavy (don't care, it's for car camping), and seems like it will be a great DIY tarp at a very inexpensive cost. One issue I have is that it is only 60" wide, so I'm looking at cutting it in half lengthwise, then sewing the halves together for a 9x10 total size. I'll seal the seams just for good measure, though here in California, we don't get much rain...

I've seen various opinions on corner reinforcement, one person sews grosgrain (ordered and on its way ~camo color to match the tarp~) along a seam tangent to the seam line, but I think I'd prefer a diagonal tie out for flexability. What is the best way to reinforce a tie out if diagonally placed?

Thanks for all opinions and helpful assistance, I'm looking forward to taking it out for a test run soon!

[gargoyle]

You got 27 feet of 60" wide....hmmm

Is it ripstop? Does it have a square mesh intertwined inside the fabric?
Rubbery you say, so probably polyurethane coated.

If I were me and I am...
cut 2 at 10 or 11 feet and sew together on one long edge, effectively giving you 10 x 11 or 10 x 10 tarp.
That leaves you with a piece 7 or 5 feet long..

[Ramblinrev]

I agree with gargoyle on the measurements. And this is NOT sil. It is Polyurathane coated which is not a problem for car camping. The rubbery feel plus the weight is what gives that away.

[Spikestrip]

I agree with gargoyle on the measurements. And this is NOT sil. It is Polyurathane coated which is not a problem for car camping. The rubbery feel plus the weight is what gives that away.

Thanks RR, I just watched a few of your *very* informative videos!
Is this material goiong to be a problem to sew, especially in light of my desire to double fold (for waterproofing) the center seam? not sure if it'll be too thick for the machine...

[Spikestrip]

You got 27 feet of 60" wide....hmmm

Is it ripstop? Does it have a square mesh intertwined inside the fabric?
Rubbery you say, so probably polyurethane coated.

If I were me and I am...
cut 2 at 10 or 11 feet and sew together on one long edge, effectively giving you 10 x 11 or 10 x 10 tarp.
That leaves you with a piece 7 or 5 feet long..

Thanks Gargoyle, just what I was looking to do, with some left over for semi-waterproof stuff sacks. I'm hoping the poly coating will make it weatherproof and more durable.

[Ramblinrev]

Thanks RR, I just watched a few of your *very* informative videos!
Is this material goiong to be a problem to sew, especially in light of my desire to double fold (for waterproofing) the center seam? not sure if it'll be too thick for the machine...

Unless you have a "toy" machine a flat felled seam should not be a problem for the center seam. That is my preference although others prefer a modified french seam. IMO the flat felled seam is stronger but I have no data to support that. Either one should present no problem for you. (Other than your own skill level) The heavier PU coated fabric is way easier to handle.