grommets vs clips / grips for knitted shadecloth

[guerrillayogi]

i want to add a row of connectors down the MIDDLE of my knitted shadecloth.

adding grommets is a permanent solution, right? I will also need special tools?

An alternative is tarp grips, such as these (
Easier, but apparently not too strong - the plastic can snap in high winds.

Finally, what about zipties? A large number of zipties to secure the shadecloth to the frame? My only fear is that the wind can tear the fabric - but will that be a concern if I have zipties every 6 inches or so? (along a 30 ft length)

thanks

[tamarakay]

We grommet ours and then use bungee balls. Works great. Mydearfriend uses clips on hers and has had no problems either. But she just uses them along the bottom of her hut, if I remember correctly. The tool sets and grommets can be purchased as a kit. We also grommet the edge of our floor tarp so we can stake it down easily.

[skippy3k]

I would recommend grommets. Zipties every 6" may or may not work, but I wouldn't want to have to cut each ziptie during teardown. I would be a hassle.

[AntiM]

I would be a hassle.

But yet we still love you, Skippy.

[skippy3k]

An unintentional typo, yet, when I re-read it, I think it still holds true. After cutting the 20th ziptie and trying to locate it in the dusty playa, I'm sure I wouldn't be a good person to be around!

[guerrillayogi]

An unintentional typo, yet, when I re-read it, I think it still holds true. After cutting the 20th ziptie and trying to locate it in the dusty playa, I'm sure I wouldn't be a good person to be around!

Thanks for the reflection. I imagined breaking down camp after 2 weeks in the desert, and realized (in my imagination) that I should have gotten grommets for ease of use and longevity. That, and fuck plastic waste. So I ordered 1/2" grommets, hope my 3/8 lag bolts + washer fit.

[FIGJAM]

You won't need the washers.