inexpensive/ultra-light tarp... does it exist?

**cwayman1** · 04-12-2009, 15:21

I couldn't find all too many posts about this, but does anyone know where I can find a RELATIVELY inexpensive tarp? I mean, I just can't bring myself to put out between $60-$100 for a tarp... considering how often I am actually able to get out. I know it would be worth it, but still... you know? Any advice would be MUCH appreciated!

**angrysparrow** · 04-12-2009, 15:27

Campmor has an Equinox 10' x 10' for $40. It's not particularly lightweight, though.

With tarps you can have light, good, and cheap - pick any 2.

**Brian** · 04-12-2009, 16:57

This is exactly what I felt 7 years ago - do you know someone who owns a sewing machine? DIY gear is a great way to get the most inexpensive gear possible, while having a (hopefully) great deal of fun as well as really getting to know the gear as you make it. Check out the DIY-sub forum here on Hammockforums, and welcome!

-Brian

**Narwhalin** · 04-12-2009, 17:36

Originally Posted by angrysparrow

With tarps you can have light, good, and cheap - pick any 2.

Brilliant, dude!

**lori** · 04-12-2009, 18:13

Originally Posted by angrysparrow

Campmor has an Equinox 10' x 10' for $40. It's not particularly lightweight, though.

With tarps you can have light, good, and cheap - pick any 2.

The same can be said for sleeping bags. Some things are worth what you pay for them, whether you pay in dollars or effort.

**opie** · 04-12-2009, 20:01

I grabbed one of these in 10x12. Only because I need the coverage and I ran out of extra money for the month. I had an order in at OES...but didnt have the coin to fund what I wanted.

http://www.bigrockoutfitters.com/ind...oducts_id=8747

I found it from a similar question asked of someone else here.

**cwayman1** · 04-12-2009, 21:37

hey guys, thanks for all of the input. Brian, I actually have thought about making my own, but I am not sure where I could get the fabrics that I would need. I mean, on all these DIY camping gears sites I've found, it always says "... 1.9 ripstop that I found in the dollar bin at Walmart..." I have NEVER seen any nylon fabric at the Walmarts in my area. haha. any ideas?

**lori** · 04-12-2009, 21:41

You can get ripstop at a variety of places online - Thru Hiker, Speer Hammocks, Seattle Fabrics, owfinc.com... speer has a sale going, 5.65 per yard of 1.1 ripstop, 8.50 for 1.1 silnylon.

**Brian** · 04-12-2009, 21:50

cwayman - I heartily recommend Outdoor Wilderness Fabrics (owfinc.com). They're a great family business with fantastic prices on both fabrics and notions/accessories. I've been using them for several years now and I've got nothing but good. Quest fabrics is also good, but they don't quite match the prices of owfinc. For some good general directions, try digging up the 'Blackcat' directions found somewhere here on HF - they can provide a good overview for general tarp making practices.

**Doctari** · 04-12-2009, 21:53

I suggest a Mac Cat or anything else made by OES.
"RELATIVELY inexpensive", well made, & they come in assorted sizes (& colors?).

Contact OES or Brian (member above with OES logo as avitar

)

Insert usual disclaimer here: not affiliated etc.