Make Yourself a Waterproof Tarp

Hi it’s Easy or Else with the last in my series of the DIY hammock build.

The part that I’ve been missing was a tarp. I’ve been waiting for a budget friendly option and last week I was fortunate to come across and entire bolt of camo ripstop nylon for $1.50 a yard. So, with just under 11 yards I was able to get 2 tarps out of it. Made a 9x10, general tarp and added grommets or ribbon for the tie outs so I could vary the setups. And then made a 5x7 diagonal for my lightweight tarp to go over my hammock. All of the edges were finished with rolled hems. And on the diagonal, I also made 2 side roll downs made out of a 4 foot piece of silnylon that I had. And I cut that into 2 triangles sewing one on each side. This provided more coverage for wind and rain and allowed me to easily adjust the tarp for weather as needed. They roll up quickly and a pretty cool porch mode when used with a pole or a tie out to a tree.

The only draw back, was that it wasn’t waterproof. But thanks to others who have blazed that DIY trail, I learned that I could waterproof it myself. Using mineral spirits and 100% clear silicone. So, for another $11 dollars I got right to it… Mixed it thoroughly. Soaked it good. And then hung it all out to dry. I even had enough to throw in my silnylon pants. I did do a water test but I didn’t have to wait long for the ultimate test. We had a full blown wind and heavy rain mountain storm, and it held up like a champ. And all this fits in this compact little stuff sack that I made out of the extra fabric.

I couldn’t be happier. I learned a lot. Saved a bunch of money and my hammock system is now complete. I hope this inspires you to try some of these ideas and either way, whether you DIY or you buy, just get out there!

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