Whether you're hosting a backyard movie night, throwing a tailgate party, or managing a booth at a local fair, a portable tarp screen can add convenience and comfort to your setup. These versatile screens can be used for shade, privacy, wind blocking, or even as projection screens. The best part? Building your own tarp screen is simple, budget-friendly, and customizable to your needs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to build your own portable tarp screen, including materials, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for setup and storage.
Why Build a Portable Tarp Screen?
Before we get to the how-to, let’s look at why you might want a portable tarp screen in the first place:
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Shade from the sun during daytime events
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Privacy barrier in crowded outdoor spaces
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Wind protection for food stations or seating areas
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Projection screen for movies or presentations
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Easy to transport and set up on-site
Tailgaters, campers, sports parents, and event hosts can all benefit from having a go-to tarp screen that sets up in minutes and withstands the elements.
What You’ll Need: Materials List
The beauty of a tarp screen lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Materials
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Heavy-duty tarp (size depending on your needs, e.g., 6'x8', 8'x10', or 10'x12')
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PVC pipes or metal conduit (for the frame)
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PVC pipe connectors (T-joints, elbows, and optional couplings)
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Bungee cords or ball bungees
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Rope or guy lines
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Tent stakes or ground anchors
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Hammer or mallet (for driving stakes)
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Optional: Zip ties, carabiners, or clips
Recommended Tarp Features
Choose a tarp that is:
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Waterproof and UV resistant
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Durable with reinforced edges and grommets
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Light enough to be portable, but strong enough to withstand wind
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Plan Your Screen Size
First, decide on the size of your screen. A good standard for most events is around 8 feet wide by 6 feet tall. Measure your tarp and cut your PVC pipes accordingly.
For an 8'x6' screen, you’ll need:
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Two vertical pipes, each 6 feet
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Two horizontal pipes, each 8 feet
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Two shorter base stabilizer pipes (around 2 feet each)
If you want to make your screen collapsible for transport, use couplings to break longer pipes into smaller sections.
Step 2: Build the Frame
Assemble the frame using your PVC pipes and connectors. A simple rectangular shape will suffice:
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Use T-joints at the bottom corners to attach stabilizer feet.
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Use elbows for the top corners.
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Connect the horizontal pipes across the top and bottom, and vertical pipes on each side.
Ensure the frame is square and stable. You may want to use PVC cement if you're building a permanent frame, but for a portable version, a friction fit should work fine.
Step 3: Attach the Tarp
Lay your tarp over the frame. Line up the grommets with the edges of the frame. Use bungee cords, ball bungees, or zip ties to secure the tarp to the frame.
Start at the top corners and work your way down, keeping the tarp taut but not overly stretched, which could cause tears or tension damage.
Step 4: Secure the Screen
If you’re in a windy area or using the screen outdoors for long periods, anchor the base of your screen.
You can:
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Use guy lines and tent stakes on each side
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Add weight to the base pipes (sandbags or filled water bottles work well)
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Stake the tarp directly to the ground if needed
This extra security ensures your screen won't tip or blow away mid-event.
Optional Upgrades
Here are a few optional additions to take your tarp screen to the next level:
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Projection surface: Use a white or silver tarp for better clarity when projecting movies or slides.
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Blackout back layer: Add a second dark tarp behind the main screen to enhance visibility in bright conditions.
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Portable carrying bag: Store the tarp and disassembled frame in a duffel bag or tote for easy transport.
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Custom branding: Add a logo or design to your tarp for business events or team tailgates.
Tips for Success
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Test indoors before your event to ensure stability and proper size.
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Check the weather: Use wind-resistant features if storms or gusts are expected.
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Pack extra bungees and stakes just in case something breaks or gets lost.
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Clean and dry your tarp before storage to prevent mildew or damage.
Use Cases for Your Portable Tarp Screen
The versatility of a tarp screen makes it a favorite for all kinds of gatherings. Here are a few ways to use yours:
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Tailgate parties: Provide shade or privacy next to your vehicle
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Outdoor movie nights: Project films on a white tarp in your backyard
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Camping trips: Create a wind block or rain shelter at your campsite
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Vendor booths: Offer a branded backdrop or shield from the sun
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Sports games: Use as a temporary dugout or shade tent for the team
Once you have one built, you’ll wonder how you ever went without it.
Conclusion: Build it Right with Quality Materials
A well-made tarp screen is more than just a weekend project — it's a reusable, reliable piece of gear that can make your outdoor experiences significantly better. Whether you're blocking the wind, casting a movie, or showing off team spirit, building your own portable screen puts you in control of your space.
When it comes to quality tarps, don’t cut corners. Choose a durable, weather-resistant tarp from a trusted supplier. Tarp Supply Inc. offers a wide selection of high-quality tarps in various sizes, colors, and materials. Their products are built to withstand tough outdoor conditions, ensuring your tarp screen holds up season after season.
Invest a little time and effort now, and you’ll be ready for whatever your next event throws your way — sun, wind, or applause.
