How to Make Tarps With Snaps

Tarps are versatile pieces of gear that can be used to erect temporary shelters, cover boats or vehicles or to spread out as a paint cloth. Making a customized tarp equipped with snaps requires using a snap setter tool available at many marine supply stores. When making the tarp be sure to set the snaps equal distances apart and use the snap size suitable for any receiving end portions of snap top. Use this method for any type or tarp material, from a pre cut plastic tarp to a section of raw canvas.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Marker
  • Marine snap tool
  • Snaps
  • Blue tarp or canvas
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fold the tarp material into thirds, keeping the edges of the tarp facing out. It is easier to work with when folded. Work on one side at a time and measure out the snap locations. A recommended distance is between 2 to 3 inches between snaps starting at the corner.

    • 2

      Load the snap setter tool with the snap mount and squeeze the snaps onto the marked distances on the tarp edge.

    • 3

      Fold in the finished edge and expose another edge of the tarp. Measure and make new distances starting from the corner and place the snaps at the marks with the snap tool.

    • 4

      Fold the finished edge and expose another edge. Mark and set the snaps. Continue to the last edge and set and install the snaps.