I have read a number of threads that tend to discredit the usefulness of tyvek as a tarp material. I decided to actually test the material. This weekend I constructed a tarp based on 5 yards to ultra-lite tarp from BPL. Here are some photos of the finished product. I have not had a chance to sleep under it yet. I believe that it will be just as good, if not better than silnylon. The seems are taped with tyvek tape. I also used the tape to create the guy-out points. I used Mason Line for the guy lines.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v483/toddheyn/038.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v483/toddheyn/037.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v483/toddheyn/036.jpg

I think you are on to something there, Todd. AMybe even a Tyvek pack and groundcloth to compliment your tarp? Seriously, great inginuity.

Dough Nut

Do enjoy the price difference. Tyvek 10points, silnylon zero. You would need some sort of bug net and a bivy.

Cool idea, but have you tried to tension it so it won't flap. What's it weigh? Post results after your tests.

Cool idea, but have you tried to tension it so it won't flap. What's it weigh? Post results after your tests.

I have not had a chance to observe the tarp in the wind yet. I will report back as soon as I can.

The tarp weighs 17.7 ounces. That includes the tarp, guy lines, 8 aluminum gutter nails for stakes and a stuff sack.

nice. but white is kinda ugly.

does tyvek make a good tsrp, or will it leak?