Shock cord loop + guyline – which bend to use?

you can simplify everything by simply using a single guyline … attach it directly to the peg then use a blakes hitch to the tarp to adjust the tension … or vice versa ;)

I have guylines on my tarp that have auto-tensioners (loops of shock cord) built in. I followed the instructions from this post at the hammock forum: https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php/3731-Techniques-For-Make-Your-Own-Shock-Cord-Tarp-Tensioners I have a prusik loop on the guyline that is attached to the other end forming a loop that goes around the stake and allows a range of stake positions.

I'd tie a bowline at the end of the guyline. Join the shock cord loop to the bowline with a larks head (aka cow hitch, lanyard hitch).

Andy – this is exactly what I'm hoping to simplify. Instead of having two knots (one at the end of the guyline loop, and one at the end of the shock cord loop) and two cow/girth hitches (one to join the shock cord and the guyline, and one to attach the shock cord to the tarp), I was thinking to tie a single bend joining the shock cord (in a loop) with the guyline (straight), and then hitch the loop to the tarp. Just not sure if its a good idea, and what bend would be the best? Craig, I did see that thread but again was hoping to have something simpler. I need the guyline/shock cord to be easily detachable (to use as poncho) and equally easy to put back when pitching as tarp, such as when its raining or windy or both. Eric – I know :) But want to try the shock cord and see if it helps with the sagging.

I would lark's-head the loop of shock cord through the grommet/loop on the tarp, tie the line to that with a bowline and then use a taut-line hitch on the stake end. You could leave the taut-line hitch in place even if you remove the lines each time (removing the lark's head to free the line).

In my recollection as a long-time Scouter, a "Sheet Bend" is good knot for ropes of different sizes or types. It is also efficient, since it doesn't waste a lot of rope. However, if you add a bite to it, it might make it a little more secure, since it can occasionally undo itself, depending on the rope type. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheet_bend

Eric – I know ;)

The sheet bend is one of the best for 2 lines of different thicknesses. Make a loop with the thicker line. It sounds like your shock cord is already in a loop. Run the free end of you guy line up through the loop from the bottom, Run the free end of the guy line around the loop, going under the backside, Tuck the free end of the guy line under itself where it comes up out of the loop, Ensure the free end of the guy line is over the top of both sides of the loop, Pull tight. If your guy line is long, just push a piece of the middle under the part coming up from the loop in step 4. No need for adjustable / sliding hitches :)

A sheet bend is used to securely tie lines of different diameters together. Try it.