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How to Make a RV Awning

How to Make a RV Awning
A recreation vehicle is a popular mode of transportation for travelers and vacationers. An RV typically comes complete with the essential amenities for a comfortable journey, but the RV experience can be enhanced with the installation of awnings, which allow owners to utilize the space alongside the RV or trailer and be protected from the elements. Customize your own RV awning from an assortment of materials as long as it is durable and water resistant. Making an RV awning is a job you can take on rather than hiring someone else to do it for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

How to Make a RV Awning

Things You’ll Need:
  • Tarp material Silicone Velcro hook and latch Tape measure Pencil Needle and thread
  • Tarp material
  • Silicone
  • Velcro hook and latch
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Needle and thread
Step 1
Measure of the side of the RV where you are planning to install the RV awning so you can make an RV awning with the dimensions that perfectly match your RV. Consider the ideal position of your pole stands, which will hold up the tarp, when taking the measurements.
Step 2
Pick out the appropriate awning frame and tarp. You can buy these items from your local home improvement outlets or camping specialty stores. Make sure you select an awning frame and tarp that fit the measurements of your RV. Purchase a tarp material that is a bit larger than the size of your awning frame.
Step 3
Place the tarp on your working table or on the floor. With your measuring tape and pencil, measure and make a mark 2 inches from each of the four corners of your awning material so that you have a vertical and horizontal mark in each of the four corners.
Step 4
Cut two slits along each of the four corners of the tarp using the scissors. Cut along the marks you made in each corner, but be careful not to cut all the way through to the other side of tarp.
Step 5
Measure Velcro strips. Cut your Velcro strip into eight 2-inch strips. Stitch a pair of the Velcro hook and latch strips using the thread and needle; one strip of the Velcro hook and latch for each side of the slits along the four corners of the tarp.
Step 6
Stitch the four corners of the tarp along the latch slits. This is to make sure that it does not rip off along the corners. Apply a minimal amount of silicone to strengthen and protect the edges of the tarp. Allow the silicone to set and dry for at least 12 hours.
Step 7
Attach the tarp to the awning frame. Set up the awning frame, then loop and wrap the corners the tarp over the frame, attaching it to the frame using the Velcro hook and latch mates. Make sure the tarp is securely attached to the awning frame.

Article Written By Kristie Lorette

Kristie Lorette started writing professionally in 1996. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing and multinational business from Florida State University and a Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Her work has appeared online at Bill Savings, Money Smart Life and Mortgage Loan.

Write for Trails.com

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