Making my own Hex Tarp, a couple questions about materials and technique

[utah bryce]

First, awesome forum! This past summer I was backpacking with a friend who used a hammock and I was really impressed with how comfortable it was (although this might have been the 4 nights on a Thermarest Z-Lite pad talking). As this summers backpacking season edges closer, I wanted to get my own system ready, and decided on the DIY route.

The first question I had was about materials:

Is 30d silnylon going to be strong enough material to put up with some mountain abuse?
I wanted to get a lightweight waterproof material and it seemed like the best choice, just looking for some feedback from some experienced DIY'ers.

Second, My design calls for a ridge-line seam.

Should the seam extend above the top of the ridge-line (like an inverted "Y") or should it be laid flat on the underside of the ridge-line?

I'm curious to see what others have done, and what works best. I would assume that the inverted Y would be more waterproof, but I'm not sure if it keeps the ridge-line taught.

[craige]

Welcome to the forums!

30d silnylon (1.3oz after coating) is what most folk use for tarps.

I'm not really sure what you mean by your second question,are you talking about the shape of the seam or the way it is attached to the ridgeline? Here and here are guides for DIY tarps.

Hope this helps.

Craig

[utah bryce]

I think the flat felled seam here (http://www.backwoodsdaydreamer.com/w...S-Hex-Tarp.jpg) looks like how most people do it.

The alternative was to have a rolled hem that stood off the top of the tarp like a fin.

[gargoyle]

Welcome Bryce.
Most use a flat seam
After stitching, you'll use some seam sealer to fill all the needle holes.