Making Tarps

**The Wolf in a Hammock** · 01-04-2012, 18:15

Is it necessary to put some type of lining on the edges of a DIY tarp? Would I be alright if I just put it through the surger?

**Redoleary** · 01-04-2012, 18:30

I think you'd be better off with a rolled hem.

**The Wolf in a Hammock** · 01-04-2012, 18:36

Ok, good idea, thanks for being helpful

**Detail Man** · 01-04-2012, 18:48

Serging the edges would probably not be too durable in the longrun. The threads would be prone to snag on forest debris. You do need to finish the edge somehow. A rolled hem is one way, easy to do on straight edges, a bit more challenging on catenary curves. Another method is to use grosgrain. It adds a bit of weight, but I think it makes for a tighter pitch and adds durability. Silnylon does stretch, and can lose its water repellancy if stretched a lot. The grosgrain provides an edge less prone to stretch. Cutting your fabric with a hot knife will prevent fraying until the edge is finished. Practice your curved rolled hems on scrap first. They make special presser feet for this purpose but I find them awkward to use.

Hope this helps.

**The Wolf in a Hammock** · 01-04-2012, 18:54

Thanks for the input, I'm trying to save on weight so i think ill just roll the edges but I might use the grossgrain approach if I ever make a more heavy duty winter type tarp.

**The Wolf in a Hammock** · 01-06-2012, 15:13

Ive been thinking about putting tie outs on my Hennessy 12'x10 tarp, how would you guys suggest attaching those, there are some Grip clips on JRB, should i just get those?