How to Build a Tent Frame Out of Sticks

You don't need to purchase an expensive, high-end tent to enjoy a night of camping. Using a few sticks, a tarp and utility tape, construct a tent that keeps you safe from light winds, sun and rain. One of the benefits of constructing your own tent frame out of sticks is you don't have to carry around bulky tent parts, which can wear on your back when traveling to a campsite, be cumbersome to assemble and require lots of space for storage.

Things You'll Need

  • Tarp
  • Utility tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Canvas your area for a long, strong branch approximately four inches above the ground. Pull a large tarp over the branch. Pull until you find the center point of the tarp. Allow both sides to hang low to the ground. If the branch does not extend six inches past the width of your tarp, find a new branch.

    • 2

      Search the area for eight sticks equal in height to the tree branch you chose. Pitch the do-it-yourself tent using the sticks. Start at the front opening of the tarp and wedge two of the eight sticks beneath the tree branch at each corner. Allow a three to four inch allowance at either edge. The tent forms a house-like shape.

    • 3

      Lean the sticks at either end toward one another. The tops touch -- but not the bottoms -- to create an open triangle at either end.

    • 4

      Swathe the sticks in utility tape to secure the tent "frame." Pull one stick forward of the other by one or two inches for easier handling and binding. Repeat until the tent takes shape.

    • 5

      Create a dirt-free floor. Lay a small blanket or a second tarp on the ground. If you're using more than one blanket or tarp, be sure that each piece overlaps and covers the length of the tent.