How to Make a PVC Tent

Getting back to nature is a spiritual journey for some. Some people spend time in the outdoors for study and some for fun. Whatever your reason for "getting away from it all" you will need a shelter of some sort when in the wild. A tent is a good choice for a temporary wilderness shelter. Tents can be large or small, but, most are quite pricey. Here is an inexpensive, easily-transportable, do-it-yourself tent.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic tarp (10' x 10') 12 Tent stakes 3 pieces PVC pipe (2" x 10') 2 PVC 3-way 90-degree angle joints 1 PVC collar joint (straight angle) Hack saw Tape measure Pencil 2 sections of 1/4" Rope (5' long)

Instructions

1. Use your hacksaw to cut all 3 of your lengths of PVC pipe into half, giving you six pieces that are five feet long each. Now your tent is ready for transport and assembly.

2. Unroll and separate your pieces when you arrive at your campsite. Attach three of your five-foot lengths to a 3-way angle joint. To do this, simply push the length of pipe into the joint and press straight into the joint until seated. Attach the last three lengths to the other 3-way angle joint. Connect these two assemblies with your straight collar joint.

3. Spread your tarp over the completed frame. Secure the tarp to the ground with tent stakes. Slide the stake through the grommet hole in the tarp and push into the ground until secure. Tie a rope to the tarp grommet at the top corner of the frame, make a loop at the other end of the rope, stretch it tight, and secure it to the ground with a tent stake. Repeat this procedure at the other end.

4. To disassemble, simply remove the tent stakes, roll up the tarp, and pull apart the PVC from the joints.

Tips & Warnings

• Tools such as hacksaws can be hazardous. Please use caution when using any tool. Always be aware of the area you intend to camp and its hazards. Low lying land can be prone to flooding which can lead to loss of property or life.