DIY tarp suggestions

**JEBjr** · 01-30-2011, 21:35

OK, I've made my hammock following Knotty's gathered end instructions. I'm pretty happy with the results. I'd post a pic, but I don't think my suspension is quite up to hammock forum standards.

I'd like some help about making a tarp. I don't think I need anything with doors, I don't plan on any cold weather hammocking. And I don't think I'm skilled enough of a sewer (gear maker) to make those fancy cat cuts.

Thanks,

JEBjr

**Shug** · 01-30-2011, 21:42

Here you go! The BlackCat Tarp
Shug

**JEBjr** · 01-30-2011, 21:50

Thanks. This Black Bishop fella has some pretty detailed instructions. That is a **** good looking tarp. But it may be above my skill level.

JEBjr

**rjcress** · 01-31-2011, 10:05

Hi JEBjr,
Congrats on your hammock!
I agree that the BlackCat instructions can be a bit intimidating.

How about this:
http://gear-report.com/how-to-make-a...ock-tarp-myog/

I've made 2 tarps, so far. Lots of long seams, but one of the simpler projects you'll see around here.
IMHO, the key is in figuring out how to roll, fold, or otherwise bundle the big pieces of cloth as you work with them. Otherwise, it is WAY too much material to manage and pass gracefully through the thread injector.

**Ramblinrev** · 01-31-2011, 10:17

Originally Posted by JEBjr

OK, I've made my hammock following Knotty's gathered end instructions. I'm pretty happy with the results. I'd post a pic, but I don't think my suspension is quite up to hammock forum standards.

I'd like some help about making a tarp. I don't think I need anything with doors, I don't plan on any cold weather hammocking. And I don't think I'm skilled enough of a sewer (gear maker) to make those fancy cat cuts.

Thanks,

JEBjr

Wait!?!? There are standards? When were these set in place? Did I miss something? The only standard I was aware of is "Pics or it didn't happen!"

The Black Cat tarp is like trying to read an entire Doctoral dissertation on a subject you have no knowledge in one sitting. It is really simplicity itself if you print the instructions out, ignore the math theory in the beginning, and follow the directions one step at a time while actually working with the fabric. I assure you, it is no farther above your skill level than any other tarp would be. Once you have made one to the printed size specs, the math will make some sense. But by then you will know that the only people who really care about the theory of the math are the resident quants. For the vast majority of us, it is as simple as making the cat cut you want to try and stitching it up. It is a superb pattern for a very worthwhile project. Just take your time and practice the basics on scrap.

**jeremesh** · 01-31-2011, 10:40

Originally Posted by JEBjr

OK, I've made my hammock following Knotty's gathered end instructions. I'm pretty happy with the results. I'd post a pic, but I don't think my suspension is quite up to hammock forum standards.

I'd like some help about making a tarp. I don't think I need anything with doors, I don't plan on any cold weather hammocking. And I don't think I'm skilled enough of a sewer (gear maker) to make those fancy cat cuts.

Thanks,

JEBjr

He must not have watched Shug's video yet... one view and you want to strap on some snowshoes and pluck icicles out of your nose hairs!!

**body942** · 01-31-2011, 11:55

OK, slightly off topic, but I keep reading about "thread injectors". I grew up in a sewing household, but this is a new one to me... is it perhaps a sewing machine viewed through "testosterone goggles"? I've got access to several, if that's what it is... or is it more like a surger? (the impact driver of sewing machines)

**rjcress** · 01-31-2011, 13:10

Originally Posted by body942

I keep reading about "thread injectors". I grew up in a sewing household, but this is a new one to me... is it perhaps a sewing machine viewed through "testosterone goggles"? I've got access to several, if that's what it is... or is it more like a surger? (the impact driver of sewing machines)

Well, I guess you could call a TI a "sewing machine" if you want to.
Your "testosterone googles" speculation was right on the money.

We probably should come up with a better term for a Serger.

**Cold Butt Stephen** · 01-31-2011, 13:21

Originally Posted by JEBjr

Thanks. This Black Bishop fella has some pretty detailed instructions. That is a **** good looking tarp. But it may be above my skill level.

JEBjr

I think that the easiest way to drop the skill level on a DIY tarp is to make one without caternary cuts. If you do that, it's really only a matter of cutting the shape you want, making one seam, hemming the edges and then adding tie-outs.

Originally Posted by body942

OK, slightly off topic, but I keep reading about "thread injectors". I grew up in a sewing household, but this is a new one to me... is it perhaps a sewing machine viewed through "testosterone goggles"? I've got access to several, if that's what it is... or is it more like a surger? (the impact driver of sewing machines)

"Thread injector" is just what people jokingly call sewing machines here (prevents emasculation). You should be able to use a normal machine and won't need the impact driver of sewing machines.

**JEBjr** · 01-31-2011, 14:31

Thanks everyone. I will study that black bishop thesis some more. That is a beautiful tarp. I think I will make a simpler tarp before tacking that Black Bishop one.

Thread injecting, I like that.

I have definitely seen all of Shug's videos. I am not tough or crazy enough to camp in weather like that.