My tarp is 12' x 10' and I always hang with the 12' lengthwise and 5' walls. Works well for me--enough coverage on the ends that way, and I think it would be skimpy the other way. No problems with the sides. I double-hang with my wife under this tarp, with this orientation. Mine is SpinnUL so I don't use any shock cord. Hope this helps--good luck.