To tie a tarp to a pole securely and prevent it from turning or dislodging, the key is to create a connection that leverages the tarp's tension by bringing the securing line "back to the other side" of the connection point, effectively locking the pole in place. This method, as highlighted by Papa hiker, ensures stability and prevents the pole from rotating or running away from your tarp.
Attaching a tarp to a pole requires a method that not only supports the tarp's weight but also stabilizes the pole against twisting and movement, especially in windy conditions. The principle of going "back to the other side" refers to how a guy line or rope can be looped around the pole and then tensioned in such a way that it cinches the pole firmly against the tarp or a ground anchor, preventing any unwanted rotation or slippage.
Method for a Stable Connection
Here’s a general approach incorporating the "back to the other side" principle for a secure tarp-to-pole setup:
- Identify Tarp Attachment Points: Most tarps have reinforced grommets or fabric loops (tie-out points) along their edges and corners. Choose the appropriate point on your tarp that you intend to connect to the pole.
- Prepare Your Guy Line: Take a suitable length of rope or cord (guy line). One end will connect to your tarp, and the other will either secure to the ground via a stake or be tensioned back to another point on the pole or tarp.
- Loop Around the Pole:
- Attach one end of your guy line to the chosen tarp grommet/tie-out point using a secure knot like a bowline or a figure-eight follow-through.
- Bring the guy line from the tarp around the pole at the desired height.
- The "Back to the Other Side" Principle: Instead of just staking the line straight down, bring the line back towards the tarp or through a secure loop you create around the pole. This creates a more stable, non-slip connection.
- Option 1 (Direct Tension): After looping around the pole, bring the guy line directly down to a ground stake, using a Taut-Line Hitch or similar adjustable knot to maintain tension. For added stability against turning, you might pass the line through the tarp's grommet again after looping the pole, creating a self-cinching action before staking it out.
- Option 2 (Integrated Loop): Form a small loop on the guy line before wrapping it around the pole. Once wrapped, pass the working end of the guy line through this initial loop and then pull tight. This creates a snaring effect that tightly grips the pole, preventing rotation.
- Option 3 (Two-Point Stability): If the tarp has two close tie-out points, you can use two lines, or even one line forming a V-shape, to brace against the pole. Each line pulls on the pole from a different angle, making it harder for the pole to turn.
- Secure and Tension:
- Drive a ground stake firmly into the ground a suitable distance from the pole, ensuring the line is at a proper angle (typically 45-60 degrees for optimal tension).
- Adjust the tension on your guy line using the adjustable knot (e.g., Taut-Line Hitch) until the tarp is taut and the pole is securely held without wobble or risk of turning.
Benefits of This Method:
- Prevents Pole Rotation: As noted by Papa hiker, this method specifically "don't have the risk that your pull starts turning." By creating a cinching or bracing effect, the pole is locked into position relative to the tarp.
- Increased Stability: The secure connection prevents the pole from "running away from your tarp," even in windy or challenging conditions.
- Enhanced Security: A well-tensioned and properly secured pole ensures the entire tarp setup remains stable and reliable.
Practical Tips for Tarp and Pole Setup:
- Angle of Attack: Position your guy lines at a good angle (around 45 degrees from the ground) for optimal stability and to effectively transfer tension.
- Knot Selection: Learn a few essential knots like the Bowline (for attaching to grommets), Taut-Line Hitch (for adjustable tension), and Clove Hitch (for securing directly to the pole if needed).
- Pole Choice: Use sturdy poles appropriate for the size and weight of your tarp. Adjustable poles offer flexibility for different setup configurations.
- Ground Conditions: Choose a suitable spot for stakes. In soft ground, use larger or specialized stakes. In hard ground, you might need a mallet.
- Test Tension: After setting up, gently push on the pole and tarp to ensure everything is taut and secure. Adjust as needed.
By implementing these techniques, particularly focusing on how the guy line wraps around and secures "back to the other side," you can create a robust and stable tarp shelter.
