How to Lash a Canvas Tarp

Canvas tarps are often found in marine environments or around work sites. Lashing these tarps down requires configuring it over the items you want protected and making sure the tarps are protected from wind. Most canvas tarps are equipped with preinstalled grommets. Grommets are made specifically for lashing the tarp down and are round, reinforced holes made of metal found near corners or along edges on the tarps. Use the grommets to lash down the tarp.

Things You'll Need

  • Bungee cords
  • Nylon cordelette - 5 mm to 7 mm
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay out the tarp over the item(s) to be protected. If it is windy, use a friend and place heavy items along the edges of the tarp to keep it from flying or breaking away.

    • 2

      Tie one end of the cordelette to a rail, post or secure object then thread it through one corner grommet. Run the cord over the top of the tarp to the corner opposite the threaded corner. Thread the cordelette through the grommet in that corner and tie the end to another static object.

    • 3

      Take another line of crodetlette and tie one end to a static object then thread it through a corner grommet and run it over the tarp to the opposite corner. Thread it through the grommet, and tie it to a static object. You should have a criss-cross with the two cords over the center of the tarp.

    • 4

      Place a bungee cord hook into grommets along the sides of the tarp and then lash it to rails or attachment points. Go around the tarp and secure other grommets with bungees as needed to tightly secure and lash down the tarp.