I've never made a tarp but I generally use one of two tarps: one 5x8.5 (a poncho/tarp) and the other 8x10.

The smaller works fine in a lean-to configuration but for driving rain I would want to be able to make an A-frame where I could put the edges down to the ground and the 5 foot width doesn't work for that.

My 8x10 I generally pitch with an 8 foot ridgeline. That makes the sides much wides than one person would need. Two fit under there nicely with good protection.

I'm thinking 8x8 would be about optimal for one person. I know you are planning on making it yourself but I just noticed that JacksRBetter.com is having a sale and their 8x8 tarp is going for 79.95.


Edited by Heber (12/08/09 02:29 PM)