Quick-n-Easy tarp-torial W/pics

Hi,all!
I'm sure most of you know how to do this, and I'm by no means an expert on the subject myself. But here's a quick how-to for tarps. Here goes...

First, measure the size of tarp you'll need. Then mark and cut this from a doubled sheet of tissue paper. I cut along a ruler for a straight edge.


You can use any kind, kleenex, TP, etc. I use the kind that comes in shirts; sewing patterns also yield a lot of material.(That's not mine, by the way.)
Mix up some water with white glue and the color paint you want your tarp to be. Crumple the tissue paper(TP) and straighten to get a wrinkled look, then dip in the glue mix.


Lay the tp on a paper towel to dry. Use a pin or press air bubbles out the side.

Lay out the tarp and position it where you want it.  Mine is for a windshield cover, and will be folded around. You can also cover just about anything with them - hide missing detail, etc. Avoid using super glue on parts that will show; it's waterproof and will look bad painted. I use it where it won't be seen.


Next, "paint" down the TP with more of the glue mix. Use a paintbrush, the handle, putty tools, etc. to put in wrinkles and detail. If your tarp will have straps, tie a string where they will be for a tightened-down look.

Add straps later, after painting or at least drying.
Once dry, the tarp can be painted more if needed, and drybrushed to bring out detail. You'll want to seal it before you do any washes though.

This method also works for bedrolls, tents, clothing, basically any cloth item. I used the same method to cover a stack of "boxes"- an effective, cheap(or free) space filler. Foam insulation makes a good form, set up a stack with pins - superglue eats this stuff up.
I used a sewing pattern for this, so it didn't need paint in the water/glue. Otherwise it's the same method.




Here's the finished product. This is before drying and painting. I think I'll put another layer on the windshield though.

Hope I didn't make it sound too difficult or put you to sleep; the whole process takes but a couple minutes(not including drying time) and is very simple. Let me know if it helps at all, or share your own method!
Thanks for looking!
--------------Kevin