Questions about using 70d coated for a tarp

**hk2001** · 10-07-2013, 21:40

Does anyone have any insights on using coated 70d to make a full sized winter tarp? (using DIY Gear Supply's winter tarp plans)

I realize it'll be a beast in weight, but how is it working with something so heavy?

Really trying to save $ by not going sil

**PappyAmos** · 10-07-2013, 22:08

HK,

No worries on the sewing. The PU coated 1.9 (70D) is not as slippery to handle as silnylon.

Expect the finished tarp to be heavy - between 2 and 3 lbs! It will stuff to about 6" by 12".

Watch the FS listings like a hawk and you may be able to score a used tarp for an affordable price.

**FLRider** · 10-07-2013, 22:28

70d nylon, coated or not, is much easier to sew than 30d or lighter; the extra stiffness of the fabric helps to keep it from slipping about.

A note, though, about PU-coated fabrics: if you're going to do more'n a single project, make sure you change needles. The coating can come off of the fabric slightly at each puncture and gum up the needle, preventing the smooth flow of thread through the eye.

**sclittlefield** · 10-08-2013, 10:19

Like everyone said - 70d coated is much easier to work with than 30d silnylon. Much easier (other than extra weight trying to manhandle it around the sewing machine). If you're car camping, the weight is still pretty light compared to most dept. store tarps.

One side note: For seam sealing - only use silicone based sealer with silicone coated fabric.

**hk2001** · 10-08-2013, 14:50

Then what would you use to seam seal coated 70d?

**raiffnuke** · 10-08-2013, 14:53

Originally Posted by hk2001

Then what would you use to seam seal coated 70d?

Permatex flowable silicone works well.

**FLRider** · 10-08-2013, 16:04

Originally Posted by raiffnuke

Permatex flowable silicone works well.

I was unaware that silicone-based sealer worked with PU-coated material. Hrm...that makes life easier. Thanks!

**pgibson** · 10-08-2013, 16:13

Originally Posted by sclittlefield

One side note: For seam sealing - only use silicone based sealer with silicone coated fabric.

Originally Posted by hk2001

Then what would you use to seam seal coated 70d?

Originally Posted by raiffnuke

Permatex flowable silicone works well.

Originally Posted by FLRider

I was unaware that silicone-based sealer worked with PU-coated material. Hrm...that makes life easier. Thanks!

What Scott was saying is do not use silicone based sealer on PU coated fabrics...silicon sealers work for silicon coated fabrics but do not bond as well to other coatings.

Seam Grip is the best sealant for PU coated fabrics. http://www.mcnett.com/gearaid/seam-grip

Sil Net on the other hand is the best sealer for Silicone coated fabrics.
http://www.arrowhead-equipment.com/tarps.html

**raiffnuke** · 10-08-2013, 16:15

Exactly what pgibson said.

**FLRider** · 10-08-2013, 16:22

Originally Posted by pgibson

What Scott was saying is do not use silicone based sealer on PU coated fabrics...silicon sealers work for silicon coated fabrics but do not bond as well to other coatings.

Seam Grip is the best sealant for PU coated fabrics. http://www.mcnett.com/gearaid/seam-grip

Sil Net on the other hand is the best sealer for Silicone coated fabrics.
http://www.arrowhead-equipment.com/tarps.html

Thanks for clearing that up, pgibson! Glad I didn't try it before hearing the correction!