Sources for a Diamond Tarp?

**Passinthru** · 01-29-2015, 19:37

This information is probably buried in here somewhere already - but -

I am looking for a diamond shaped tarp, something near the size of the Claytor Diamond Fly ( about 13' on long axis, 10' on short axis). I would like to find something a little lighter - silnylon perhaps. I do not want an asym like the Hennesy models. The Yukon Outfitters tarp is shaped right but a little small.

Does anyone know of any manufacturers of such a tarp?

**tnrdnck** · 01-29-2015, 20:53

Try here

http://www.bushcraftoutfitters.com/S...x10-cb-sil.htm

http://www.shop.backpackingadventure...t-Siltarps.htm

**Passinthru** · 01-29-2015, 21:53

Thanks - but those are either square or rectangle. Lots of pitching options, especially with the square, but still looking for a diamond shape.

**Boston** · 01-30-2015, 03:24

Any particular reason it has to be a symmetric diamond? Or Diamond in general? Lots of fabric waste to make what you specify.

**hutzelbein** · 01-30-2015, 05:56

Lots of options.

Simply Light Designs makes two: the Paragon Tarp and the Simplicity Asym Tarp. If you wanted a slightly different shape, just ask. Jared is known for custom work.

Tree to Tree Trail Gear sells a silnylon diamond tarp.

Hennessy Hammock has diamond tarps made from different fabrics.

Ticket to the Moon sells one.

Hammock Gear makes a Cuben Diamond Asymmetrical tarp.

ZPacks makes a Cuben diamond hammock tarp as well.

So does Mountain Laurel Designs.

I probably forgot some other sellers, and there are many shops that do custom work, too.

**Passinthru** · 01-30-2015, 09:37

Originally Posted by Boston

Any particular reason it has to be a symmetric diamond? Or Diamond in general? Lots of fabric waste to make what you specify.

The reason for wanting a diamond shape is only that I am toying with the idea of lightening my load and upping the simplicity of my fair weather gear. Except to play with the setup I have never used the doors on my Superfly.
The info given by many manufacturers (now that hutzelbein has guided me in the right direction) seems to indicate that the asym tarps are made for those who sleep diagonally in their hammocks. In the Ridgerunner I sleep straight, and even in a gathered end I toss and turn and shift from one diagonal to the other. Plus - I want the tarp to cover not just me but the hammock as well. Since it will be minimal coverage, I am not comfortable about leaving one side more exposed. Thus, the desire for a symmetrical diamond.
Since I don't sew I had not thought about fabric waste - but you are right.

'hutzelbein' - thanks for the links. I thought I had looked everywhere...but no...

The TTTTG tarp is exactly what I was looking for - except for price...But considering the wasted fabric that Boston mentioned, it makes sense.

**hutzelbein** · 01-30-2015, 10:07

Originally Posted by Passinthru

The TTTTG tarp is exactly what I was looking for - except for price...

TTTG's items are all quite expensive - not sure if this is due to fabric waste. Why not get SLD's Paragon tarp? If my math is correct, the 8'x8' has a ridgeline of 11.3' - the 9'x9' would be 12.7'. Both would be considerably cheaper.

I'm a bit skeptical that a diamond tarp would work with a bridge, though. My impression is, that the shape is better suited for gathered end hammocks. I can understand that the Superfly is overkill; and the Cloudburst would only save you 1oz. But you could probably get a rectangular 11'x8' tarp and shave a couple of oz while still having decent coverage. My guess is that you would have to ask one of the custom tarp makers, as the size is a bit unusual. The Big Daddy comes close, and I'm sure WL would adjust the cut.

**hutzelbein** · 01-30-2015, 10:13

BTW, shapewise hex tarps are simply diamond tarps with 2 tips cut off. If a diamond tarp would indeed work with a bridge, there's no reason why a small hex tarp like the Edge wouldn't - except that it would provide better coverage for comparable weight.

**Wanderlost** · 01-30-2015, 10:19

Here's a link to some drawings that may help sway you towards a hex tarp instead. It shows the coverage of a diamond tarp versus a hex tarp. A hex tarp actually provides overall better protection.

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...s-Diamond-Tarp

It's the same idea for a a bridge hammock as a gathered end hammock.

**Boston** · 01-30-2015, 10:29

Actually the way he makes it it's not too bad for fabric waste. Possibly none at all because of volume production. Imo that seems very expensive for what it is - even considering the labor of the 2 seams. You need to ask yourself, "is $180 worth 5oz?"

I didnt notice you had a RR. You may want to try the concept with a cheap blue poly tarp first. I wonder if you will have problems with the spreader bars contacting the tarp. In my expirience bridge hammocks really need a tarp with side panel pull outs, or the tarp must be hung high - limiting side coverage.