Is it Worth Keeping Those Old Tarpaulins?
Tarpaulins are incredibly durable materials that can withstand years of weathering and use. However, over time they may fade, develop small holes, or grow stiff from repeated exposure to sun and rain. Many people assume it's time to toss old tarpaulins in the trash.
However, before doing so it's worth considering more creative ways to repurpose old Canvas Tarpaulin and give them a second life serving a new purpose. Tarpaulins are made of thick, water-resistant vinyl or polyester fabrics that maintain integrity even after visible wear and tear. With a little effort, old tarpaulins can be reused for countless DIY projects and save money versus continually buying new tarps or materials.
Make a Raincoat or Poncho
A simple way to repurpose old tarpaulins is by cutting them into the shape of a lightweight raincoat or poncho. Measure your desired size dimensions and add a few extra inches for seams. A poncho style is easiest as it requires no sewing - just cut two identical shapes and staple or hot glue the edges together, leaving an opening for your head.
For a raincoat, cut out a front and back piece. Add 1-2 inches around all edges for hemming and sew the shoulder seams. You can then optionally add buttons or snaps down the front. For a more professional and weatherproof finish, use a sewing machine equipped with a zipper foot to install a water-resistant zipper.
Be creative with patterns - try a slanted asymmetrical hem, ruffles around the arms, or add decorative striped trim. For children, animal shapes like dinosaurs or ladybugs would be fun. Once complete, your new raincoat will guard against repurposed old tarpaulins for repurposing old tarpaulins.
Craft a Tote Bag, Backpack, or Bucket Bag
Another excellent way to repurpose old tarpaulins is by crafting simple tote bags, backpacks, or bucket bags. These are versatile projects that allow for creative designs.
For tote bags, measure and cut out two equal-sized rectangular pieces of tarpaulin, leaving an extra 1-2 inches on all sides. Fold the raw edges under and either sew the three sides closed, using fabric glue to secure the bottom, or fully sew all sides using a 1⁄2 inch seam allowance. Reinforce the bottom of the bag with an iron-on vinyl square before assembly.
Backpacks are a bit more advanced but still feasible. Cut trapezoid-shaped pieces for the front and back panels, two small rectangles for shoulder straps, and a long rectangle for the base. Sew all pieces together with straps attached before adding a drawstring casing at the top.
Bucket bags simply require a circular cut of Tarpaulin Sheet lined with a waterproof fabric and gathered at the top using a sturdy drawcord or leather strap. Decorate with pom poms, buttons, or a custom iron-on patch.
The possibilities are endless once you get creative! Mixing in other recycled materials like denim or vinyl adds visual interest. A rainproof tote or backpack made from repurposed old tarpaulins is extremely handy all year round.
Create Outdoor Furniture Covers:
Keeping patio and garden furniture protected from weather, dirt, and debris is smart - outdoor materials like wood and wicker can quickly show wear exposed to elements year-round. Rather than constantly cleaning or prematurely replacing pieces, repurpose old tarpaulins into custom-fitted covers that shield furniture but allow easy on/off use.
Measure each item you want to cover, adding 2-4 inches for draping and seams. Cut tarpaulin pieces accordingly - for chairs, cut a back piece and two identical side pieces that come together in front. Loungers require a single long rectangle. Use a staple gun or embroidery hoop to trace shapes before cutting for precise sizing.
To assemble, fold all edges under by 1/2 inch and sew the seams OR opt to simply staple pieces together using heavy-duty outdoor staples. For chairs, attach side pieces to the back piece with staples spaced close together. Optionally add grommets or loops of rugged twine along upper edges to secure chair covers tightly in place with ties.
To protect loungers, place the fitted cover pieces over fully and secure the bottom hem with landscape fabric staples inserted every 6-12 inches. Finish by marking furniture identified directly on covers with a permanent marker for easy identification later.
An afternoon of repurposing old tarpaulins like this keeps your investment furniture looking newer for longer! Covers protect against sunlight fading, water damage, and seasonal dirt/stains with minimal upkeep needed.
Build a Greenhouse or Hoop House:
For gardeners, repurposing old tarpaulins uk into a basic greenhouse or hoop house allows growing plants earlier and extending the harvest season later into fall. All that's needed are 8-10' long flexible branches or pipes fashioned into an A-frame or dome shape, secured into the ground 2-3' deep.
Space hoops about 3' apart and crisscross twine or baling wire between them to create a freestanding structure. Cut tarpaulin pieces 2-4' larger than the base frame and dress the structure by draping material over, pulling it taut, and anchoring the bottom into the soil or a trench around the perimeter with landscape fabric staples.
Leave one side or end open for easy access. Consider adding side curtains or a roll-up front to further trap the sun's radiant heat. Ventilation is vital - leave some windows or the top open a few inches on warm days to prevent overheating young plants. Low tunnels or cold frames provide similar protection with less fabric needed by making 3-sided mini-houses along rows.
For multi-season use, reinforce interior walls and ceilings with a rigid insulation board. Extend the lifespan of repurposed old tarpaulins by keeping coverage, paying close attention to tautness and regularly checking for deterioration so repairs can be quickly made before issues worsen.
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