First time with a tarp tent

Hi!

First time long time, sorta. I digress.

My cousin and I have recently decried our heavy bags as "never again." We're both investigating the ultra light, or rather, lighter, backpacker and I beseech ye reader for some advice regarding tarp shelters.

I've seen plans for these tarp shelters – triangular pyramid style, bivyesque style, and A frame style.

I'm looking to shortcut experimenting with every iteration by seeing what thoughts people have about the different styles.

Additionally, is there consensus on silnylon vs hardware store tarp?

Recently "borrowed" mother's old sewing machine and looking for linked tutorial content on that as well.

Any funny tarp tent stories?

Thanks!

Nate