HOW TO: The guyline for the tarp

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This summer we were out in the forest a lot. While setting up tarps, we saw many creative and complicated solutions. To make the process of tensioning the tarp a bit more pleasant, we want to show you today how to quickly and easily make a very effective little helper: the guyline.

This is a close-up of the guyline. We came across this construction a few years ago when we were intensively camping with a hammock. Since then, we have been using the guyline almost always.

For materials, you only need paracord and two small carabiners. Here we used the S-Biner #2, but any other small or large carabiner will do. You will need the paracord in two lengths. One piece that is 40-50 cm long and another piece that is 8 m long. Our first guyline was only 6m long, but it was usually too short.

You just need to tie a bowline at one end of the long cord. HERE is our tying instructions. You can then hook the first carabiner into this loop. At the other end of the cord, make a simple overhand knot five to ten centimeters from the end. With the long cord, we are ready so far.

You connect the short piece of cord to form a loop. The double fisherman's knot has proven to be practical here. The tying instructions on Wikipedia.

You then need to knot this loop to the long cord with a prusik. The prusik is a sliding friction hitch originating from mountaineering. It is often used as a safety backup when rappelling or to ascend a rope using two rep cords. Hang the second carabiner into the resulting sliding loop and your guyline is ready.

But how do you use the guyline now? The video shows you step by step, but here it is in words:

1. Wrap the end with the bowline and carabiner around a tree and hook the cord.
2. Wrap the other end of the guyline around another anchor point and hook the carabiner again.
3. Attach the tarp to the carabiners through the grommets.
4. Now you can adjust the position of the tarp by simply sliding it back and forth.
5. Hold the prusik knot and pull the cord through until it is tight.

If everything is done correctly, a triangle should form between the tree and the tarp. This is especially important when using a hammock because this triangle guides the hanging of the hammock.

A truly practical tool for setting up a tarp, or simply for tensioning the rain poncho. There is still confusion about the best way to set up a tarp. In further HOW TO's, we will address this question. In the meantime, prepare your guyline.

The video for the guyline on Youtube.