Best tarp for hammock AND ground dwelling

Disclaimer: this post reveals me as someone who still enjoys sleeping on the ground sometimes (I like to cuddle!), so if that thought upsets you (the ground dwelling, not the cuddling), then you should probably skip this. :P

I'm finally ready to sew my first tarp, using black 1.1 sil and grosgrain. The original plan was to do a BlackCat, but I started to think that a more traditional rectangular tarp would be better as I could then use it for a two-person ground shelter.

The question: what shape tarp would make the most sense as a dual-use hammock/ground tarp?

Tarp tents have a specialty all their own. I am not sure the two designs can be successfully merged into one piece of gear. I am not a tarp tent user so I really don't have much experience with them. I do know that anytime I have tried to use a rectangular tarp for a tarp tent I have been disappointed in the results.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by nartoff

The original plan was to do a BlackCat, but I started to think that a more traditional rectangular tarp would be better as I could then use it for a two-person ground shelter.

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I don't see what would keep you from using the BlackCat on the ground. Could you explain your concerns?

I should also add that I have only used a tarp as a ground shelter a few times, so I'm a novice there.

Perhaps, then, this is a better approach: For those of you who have used a hex tarp on the ground for two people, were there any problems with the indented corners? Does the hex shape significantly decrease the pitching possibilities?

This is now straying a bit off hammock topic, but I haven't found much information out there on using hex tarps on the ground; they seem to be in the purview of the hangers.

You should check out the pictures at the bottom of the BlackCat directions:

http://www.angrysparrow.com/hammock_...k_Cat_Tarp.pdf

There are several different ground configurations he came up with.

I think it would also be wise to consider what your needs are with this tarp. You may find that you tend to cuddle camp in predominatly nice weather. Thus, you would need less coverage, and wouldn't have to worry as much about size.

I think with the dimensions that the BB directions have, the BlackCat would work great for a ground tarp. The 12' ridgeline should provide you with more than enough protection, even in decently windblown rain.

Brian
OES

Given your particular circumstances, I'd go with a rectangular tarp for the greater variety of pitching options. Since you're making your own, give yourself plenty of tieouts.

An 8x10 rectangular tarp pitched with a 10 foot ridgeline is what I used for a ground tarp and it seemed to be about the right size. That size works well for most hammocks too.