Tarpworms

I bought a set of these because they look like the best option for keeping my lines attached to the tarp. (This makes for quick packing – I just slide the lines into the tarp sleeve without rolling them up). The hardware works well and weigh practically nothing. Unfortunately the tarpworms are smaller than I expected, and I found it difficult to hold it with one hand while making and sliding the loop over the end – my fingers kept getting in the way. After some practice, I found that it helps to slide the shock cord knot to be right next to the tarpworm, and then I can grip it without covering up the bottom half of the metal. This helps, but I find the fleaz easier to use (I happened to buy one to play with).

So for those who want lines attached to the tarp and the ease of use of the fleaz, I came up with this…. attach the fleaz to the tarp with shock cord as it’s intended. Set up your tie out line with loops at BOTH ends. Attach one end to the tarp ring next to the shock cord – this will never be under tension, its just for convenience so they stay together. The other end of the line loops over the stake. Now put the MIDDLE of the line in the hook on the fleaz and pull to tension, then lock the excess cord on the fleaz notches. The excess line will hang in a loop between the tarp and the fleaz. Basically you are just attaching the free end of the line to the tarp so they don’t get separated.

The moral of the story – If you are unsure which goodies to buy, get one of each and play with them before you decide on a setup. It’s much easier to understand how they work once you have one in your hands and can try using it in different configurations.