The History of the Iconic Blue Tarp

Did you know that the ever-so-common blue tarp that we use every day for hundreds of unique applications has an incredibly rich history? The term tarpaulin dates all the way back to the 1600s, and is actually a portmanteau of the words tar (likely because they were sometimes made from tar-coated canvas) and pall, which means a "heavy cloth covering."

Imagine still using a cloth covering to protect your belongings

Indeed, the tarp we know and love today had many evolutions. We can trace back the history of the tarp to sailors and fishermen in the 15th century, who drenched sheets and other materials in tar or wax in order to create a more substantial, water-resistant surface covering. Before then, coverings were typically made of more porous materials like animal skins and woven fabric, leaving the people who came before without a sturdy way to protect their items from rain and snow.

So, why are tarps so often blue? Actually, tarps come in many colors ranging from Army green to bright orange, but blue tarps remain a mainstay in households across the world. Blue is a fine choice for a tarp because the rich coloring tends to last longer and it also permits just the right blend of shade and light to pass through, allowing it to be used for dozens of unique applications. Many people believe that blue tarps are generally light-duty or economy tarps, but these recognizable canopies actually come in a variety of weights. Some of our blue tarps even feature 900 denier-count, three-ply material and arctic flexibility.

Today, tarps are typically coated with polyethylene and other plastics in order to ensure a leak-free surface. Tarpaulins have grown since the 1600s to incorporate many more modern materials and add-ons, including handy grommets and other accessories that make protecting your best investments simpler than ever.