Directions for Putting Up a Mess Tent
- 1). Unfold the tarp in all directions. Fold the towel so it is four to six layers thick, and place it on the end of the 10-foot center pole. Have one person position the center pole, with the towel on the end under the absolute center of the tarp, and stand the center pole vertically, supporting the draping tarp.
- 2). Measure in from one corner approximately 6 feet along one of the long sides of the tarp, and find the closest grommet. Have a second person place one 6-foot corner pole through the grommet and stand the pole to form one corner of the tent. Have a third person do the same to the opposite corner. Both corner people can pull their poles in opposite directions until the tarp is relatively tight between the poles.
- 3). Cut eight sections of parachute cord to about 12 feet long. Tie a loop in one end of each. Place the loops of two cords over each of the two corner poles being held in position. Stake these two ropes into the ground to hold the corner poles in place. Repeat on the opposite corner pole.
- 4). Stand corner poles in the two remaining corners of the tent, add guy ropes and stake to the ground.
- 5). Adjust the corner poles and guy ropes as needed to sturdy the structure.
- 6). Insert the remaining stakes in the grommet holes to tack down the two draped sides of the tarp to the ground. This will provide a shelter that is completely open on two sides, and fully closed on two others.
