Man forces a heavy hot tent over a wobbly frame

In this episode, Jay struggles to put his new tent on the frame he built. It's a tall frame and it's not easy to get the canvas tent over it. Also, as you'll see at the end of the episode, things don't go as planned.
Previous episode in this series:
• Greenhorn builds a ten...
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Where do I live?
Northwest Territories, Canada.
How much experience do I have?
That depends. I am pretty good at starting a fire these days and gathering wood. But I don't really have true bushcraft skills and definitely no carpentry or construction skills or training. I could probably make a shelter if I had to, but that would just come from all the KZbin training (watching) over the years.
What gear do I use?
Canon 80D camera
Rode videomicro
Sigma Art 18-35
Canon 1.8 50mm stm
Canon 18-55mm stm
Canon 10-18mm stm
A cheap 15 yr old tripod
I do not live at the tent. I just visit whenever I can.

[@mayramoore6313]

Jay, give yourself credit for attempting this for the first time, under freezing conditions and by yourself. Thanks and show us more, we're here to cheer for you... from Texas

[@jaylegere]

Thanks Mayra!

[@ErrolJones1]

Mayra Moore we Texans do love him, Houston here!

[@bengreen6980]

UK here! Watching from Saudi though. Stay safe everyone xx Jay we are all rooting for you!

[@maxine6888]

Awwe..... you're doing a good job Jay..... you'll get it to fit. Looking forward to the next video 👍

[@barbarakempf761]

I didn’t think one man alone could put that tent in place, you sir proved me wrong.

[@BB_46]

I think you need to run some long diagonal braces along the side wall and back wall to keep the frame from racking and give it more support in the wind.

[@450rhino1]

Line the walls with Chipboard or some other cheap plywood. It will strengthen and keep it straight. A nice finish inside too. Great video. I was rooting for ya.:)

[@mikefoehr235]

I suggested turnbuckles, eye bolts and wire rope across the top of the walls.

[@SWAMPHUNTER644]

@@mikefoehr235 Yes, it will strengthen the snow load.

[@SWAMPHUNTER644]

I would add diagonal 2x4s inside on the roof as well since they aren't true trusses and don't have the strength for snow and especially wind.

[@toriladybird511]

I think the word is noggins.. But am British it may be another word... Over there

[@marshallhoux7987]

Can put a band of OSB boards around the bottom then secure it and added bonus when snow piles against it it will give you added strength

[@c.erine78]

Jay, I like that you are trying, don't beat yourself up. I enjoyed watching you create. You will figure it out, if you haven't already!! Thank you for sharing with us!!

[@mandydavidson2146]

Cheering you on Jay, warmth and a breeze will relax that canvas tent. Your doing fine, I'm loving watching this project.

[@thess518]

You probably already have your solution by now, but if the tent doesn’t relax and go all the way down. Add plywood a foot or so up all the way around and attach the sod skirt to that.

[@jesseleon4501]

brilliant.

[@lionessm235]

👍🏻👍🏻 I was thinking the same thing with the plywood. I think it’s going to be OK after a few sunny days. If not, great idea!

[@jaycevessier7554]

That's not the main issue tho. The tent wont zip cause frame is too big

[@d4rkb4rt97]

It would support it as well, also just put a front door on it. That will take care of the zipper issue!

[@d4rkb4rt97]

kzbin.info

[@AlaskaBushratJohn-st7sm]

Hi Jay. I noticed your framing on each side leans in at the top. If you used screws to hold the bottom plate to the floor, take them out and hammer the bottom floor plate inwards. If you used nails, cut them with a sawzall and move your frame bottom in. You should be able to close the door

[@BB_46]

You could also plywood sheet the bottom perimeter of the three walls would help. Great job. 👍

[@jaylegere]

Just wait til my next video!

[@mrsapplez2007]

Mate, am a new sub and I ha e to say...braaavo for keeping the mistakes in. Alot of chanel don't really show this and my heart sank a little when it didn't fit. The wobble made me go....NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO DINT DO THAT TO HIM. Thanks for all your hard work. Bright blessings from the uk ❤ 💛 💚 🕉 👍 💪

[@jaylegere]

Thanks miss applez!

[@sassandsavvy007]

That's exactly what makes you and your videos so much fun watching. You are not the wilderness superman. You are not afraid to show how we all learn in the process of actually doing things. Been watching your videos for quite a while and it feels like family/friends. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us. Stay safe and keep them clips coming. Greetings from the Bavarian alpine region 😊

[@jaylegere]

Thanks Lisa!

[@sassandsavvy007]

@@jaylegere can't wait watching your first overnighter in this new tent. Looks good already.

[@elwoodtaylor1092]

man Jay I wish I was there to help you with the tent but you'll geter stay safe... and warm

[@gedertr]

I love that you are just a regular guy out trying something new and willing to put it out there for all to see. Keep up the good work and keep inspiring the rest of us!!!

[@jaylegere]

Thanks so much Robert. Just out there grinding away. I hope you have a good week!

[@abefrohman1759]

You’ll have it all worked out in no time 😎👍

[@jamesgiddrey4892]

I appreciate the honesty, Jay. Stuff like this hardly ever works on the 1st or second try. A majority of KZbinrs wouldn't put a video of things falling through, but you did because you're honest. Thanks for being you. Never change, man.

[@truckerdaddy-akajohninqueb4793]

I have experience putting up carports that come with metal frames. Canadian Tire sells them. Here's my experience. You're going to want to add cross beams in the rafters to prevent the snow-load from creating bulges. Unless you are there to scrape down the snow, the weight will create sagging and ruin your tent. You could add more rafters. You look like you are at 2 feet on centre. One foot on centre should do it. Second, lower your walls so that the flaps lie flat on the ground. In my case at least, they are designed to keep the tent pinned to the ground under a snow-load. They are designed for that. The snow-load will prevent the wind from turning the tent into a giant sail. That happened to me one spring. The snow had melted and I was too lazy to take it down. I drove up my street watching one end of my carport flapping six feet off the ground. The metal frame was too twisted to be reused. These days I have a professional installer pin it to the ground using 4 feet long rebar, tying the metal frame and the tent to the rebar,, pinned in the ground. After the snow starts, those bottom flaps are essential to keep the tent pinned to the ground. My rebar only helps until the snow starts. The snow weight keeps your tent solidly fixed in place. The snow is mostly gone here now, but I still have a good solid foot of ice and snow keeping my carport (flaps and rebar) pinned to the ground. It can be as windy as I want. Another week or so and I will have to take it down.

[@williammassey8514]

Listen to this guy JAY. Love the videos. Keep 'em coming.

[@abetterlife3088]

Jay, when I was much younger, I had a similar issues on a plastic shed. I ended up putting a 12 to 18 inch plywood around the base. The plastic sheets that were short, now worked great. Not only did it give strength but also kept out critters. I’m sure, what you did will work just fine! Bravo on your continued success! Waiting for the next video already! much appreciated! Stay Healthy! Stay Safe!

[@donnacole4227]

Bless your heart. You tried,,don't stress about it cause I know your next time out you will have that problem all figured out . Be warm an be well Florida is watching u 👁️ ✌️

[@JohnyLingo]

When all else fails, North American ingenuity creates the 3” front porch! Livin’ the dream!!

[@davidshiverdecker4432]

Jay-Keep Trying...Love the Videos and your willingness to share your adventures with the rest of us....Thank You !! From Ohio

[@private15]

Put a propane heater in there. Heat and moisture will stretch it out.

[@rosegordon4297]

Love your determination to get it right and I know you will, look forward to the next video..

[@Gonzo-360]

Looks great Jay, don't stop now keeping me sane watching your progress whilst being in lockdown .... From England.

[@yvesf5355]

Nice Job Jay ,

[@123456BILLY]

Measure once cut six times. I know the feeling. Great video 👍

[@Ben-311]

Doesn't matter that it didn't fit the first or second time. What matters is that you don't give up. That's why I watch. I know you'll be back to work on it again and eventually you will get it and enjoy it.

[@jaylegere]

Thanks Ben!

[@neeshycat4197]

Man you’re a trooper! And no power tools barely just the screwdriver! Love your perseverance Jay!

[@jaylegere]

Thanks Neeshy!

[@trekOCLVone]

Always something with a project - always something. You'll get it done. Keep smiling and carry on !

[@dingo5208]

My buddy did vertical sheets around the bottom with the flap attached to it. You could do the same. Move the boards over your window to attach diagonally under it. Also, make some bear boards to keep them and critters out when you're not in.

[@bigdaddytrucker9963]

Dingo that’s what I just said, put wood flashing on the bottom and secure it to all the wood studs and it will not only cover the bottom side but also the tent can cover it.

[@danielsjacobs]

Sincere respect from someone whose ineptitude makes you look like a master craftsman. You have time. Keeping it real is the attraction for me.

[@jaylegere]

Thanks Daniel. I appreciate it. Jay

[@frankdawe5156]

Don't be discouraged, Jay. You'll fix the problem. I'm anxious to see the finished product.

[@vincentbournique8487]

Jay, real life is trying something and it not being perfect first (or second) time. You will succeed,. Try putting your camp stove in the tent and warming up the canvas as it is very hard to manipulate in the cold. I think many of us are rooting for you.

[@markrodli3094]

You got this! Enjoying watching, thank you.

[@Halifaxbomber2]

You're killing me bro! I will however, watch to the end of this project because I know you will prevail!

[@wniner8194]

Hi Jay, if I haven't done it twice I haven't done it right! Well sometimes I have to do it 3 or 4 times. As long as you are doing what you want to do it will eventually come! Cheers.

[@davidnielsen4490]

Keep at it Jay, you'll get it accomplished.

[@keithcotnoir6331]

determination, yes Sir, that's what you have, love your videos Jay

[@buckypume6357]

I love it when you make a mistake or miscalculation and own it. That's what makes you so lovable and great to watch your experiences. It make me feel a connection to know I'm not the only one. You keep going and think it through and share that. You are very cool. Thanks for sharing with us homebound

[@WhiteDragon689]

You need a cross member on the front of the tent like the back. Also bracing members to stiffen it. When the snow load is on it it will buckle and come crashing down. Also putting a wooden skirt about a foot and a half on the border might help with making it structurally stiff. One observation. all that its holding it together are screws and the shearing force on those are about 50 pounds. One goes and the structure collapses under a load. It gets worse when winds hit it wobbles and the metal shears. Consult with a structural engineer. I believe it can be salvaged and made strong.

[@jankovalcik1278]

I know how you feel man. Respect for sharing with us with you mistakes. Sure its its gonna be a great tent!

[@jfk64kennedy95]

suggestion... roll your tent up from the bottom of the long sides to the roof ridge so you end up with 2 side by side rolls, half the tent each now fold the 2 rolls set up from each end to the middle now take up to center of roof ridge frame unroll towards each end and gravity will unroll the sides(well might need a little help, but get the point)

[@cheryljoynson7053]

I think you're doing great on your own. Bloody hard work. Looking forward to the next video. Stay safe.

[@geoffreydyke5017]

It's funny (as in odd) how the measurements work out. When I built my 10x12 tentframe (knowing how persnickety canvas can be) I built the frame several inches short in all dimensions. When I put the tent on it, it was still pretty tight in spots. However, like you indicated at the start of the vid, canvas "relaxes" and stretches over time. I built mine in the springtime so the next rain after erecting it meant that I was able to make it stretch into the proper shape. Since then, I've had no problem taking the tent off of the frame or putting it back on. As some other commenters have observed, adding plywood walls to the frame helps build in rigidity. Just make sure that you take the thickness of the plywood wall into consideration for your outside dimensions. I also made diagonal braces for the back stud holding the ridge pole and framed in a 2x4 wall and doorway in front. Those went a long way in stabilizing the roof. :)

[@jaylegere]

Thanks for the tips! My next video shows some plywood around the walls

[@MrEddiejack]

@@jaylegere ply wood will fix ur height problem , but it won't fix ur door problem , ur going to have to move ur walls in closer to fix that one i think

[@geoffreydyke5017]

jay legere I modelled mine after a few tent frames I spent time in camping around the Mackenzie Delta growing up and working in Inuvik and Aklavik.

[@annetreacy2437]

It's not wobbly, it's flexible! It's important to have some give ;) Heck of a job for one pair of hands, props to you.

[@ellenthivierge8004]

Keep your chin up Jay. I am very proud of you. You are doing this all by yourself and everyone makes miscalculations. When you don't get it right the first time try try again. Good luck and can't wait for the next video. You are doing a great job don't let it get you down. Ellen :)

[@BOLLOCKS1968]

The struggle is real LOL. Great video! Cheers 👍

[@Bigbossdrocknot]

Man oh man . Here with you the whole way on that one Jay. It will fit eventually

[@johnkozaczok3713]

You are awesome, love your idea, effort and charm. I can't wait to watch and celebrate with you when you get it to fit just the way you like it. Thanks for the video.

[@johnkozaczok3713]

I'd like to suggest if you plan on using this in the winter with a wood burner, to add foil flex insulation. 1 layer on the floor, 2 layers on the sides, and 3 layers on the ceiling. Of course more if desired. I would add a half inch gap between the layers using a half inch piece of wafer board cut into strips so you have something to staple the edges of the foil flex to. Also very important to tape the edges together to get a tight ceil with aluminum tape. Also you may want to divide the cabin in half or smaller with an insulated adjustable, movable wall for your sleep area. This area to be heated with a portable propane stove with a hose going outside to a 20 lb refillable tank. You can also use moving blankets purchased at Harbor Freight with a layer of foil flex insulation between them. Since you have the head room and the framing, I'd build at least a 2 ft deep shelf all the way around the upper corner to give you even more room for floor space. You may also want to consider using 1, 2, or 3 candles at night for heat. Sorry for rambling. One more suggestion if I may. If this is canvas, consider covering the outside of with what some call " a poor mans fiberglass". This is a process of layering several coats of exterior glue to the canvas. This of course is only if you don't ever plan on taking it off. I've got so many ideas for you, but I'm going to stop. I don't want to be rude. I know,.....too late. Good luck, looking very much to see your progress.

[@frederickhillegas2115]

Crunchy snow, you know it's cold! Love your videos

[@djwt20]

It's good to look at all those mistakes, it forces us to re-imagine what we want to do, and learn how to actually make it happen.

[@jb9218]

It's beautiful. I love how the pine trees are outlined on the canvas. So pretty! What a special place. Can't wait to see the finished product! Good work!

[@imagingconcepts]

You might consider putting 2ft wide base of 1/2 plywood wrap around the bottom of the walls, added stability, draft and critter protection. :)

[@danjennings6817]

Nice job bud! Give you a lot of credit working in that weather. Dan from Jersey

[@j8j7j9]

Don't give up you got this .

[@tanyaa6452]

No worries, Jay. It looks beautiful so far. You will make it!

[@markdarden4066]

And an great tent / cabin was born

[@ld200A]

Hang in there, you have a lot of helpful hints coming your way. You definitely aren't the person who gives up easily.

[@s.pursell8901]

I agree with many other here Jay. Just get a couple sheets of ply wood and ripe them down to two feet and attach them to the base. As for the tent zipping closed. I've got no clue other than to make sure everything is square. One inch out times 8 (top and the bottom of the 2x4's) goes a long way in carpentry could be inches or feet.

[@sarahwhite8698]

I love your attitude! By now I would be wanting to put my fist through sheet rock but I know I'm not strong enough to do that which would make me even angrier. Good job!

[@richardkosiba96]

Way to go Jay

[@vickymayo6052]

A great learning opportunity.

[@glenyoung4170]

You could have stapled sill gasket on rafters and peak to prevent snags and chaffing on material.Plus makes it eaier to pull over."Cheers from Nova Scotia , Canada "

[@rlw127]

Turn your tent into a sauna. Between a pan of water on the wood stove and moisture making propane heater it should stretch plenty enough.

[@rlw127]

You may want to cover the plywood floor with plastic first.

[@samanthasurovec4639]

I agree to relax that cold cloth heat and moisturewould help.

[@imafarmboy2]

It takes a different way of thinking to be able to work alone. It sure gives a person new appreciation for what can be accomplished.

[@jaylegere]

Thanks!

[@TheFalcro1234]

My dude I know that is is cold AF there props for the effort It will be worth it when you are finished!!

[@susanfoote678]

We love you and love all the things you do .. I feel we are there with you and I love it . What a wonderful project you have taken on ..

[@rhondaplumhoff2670]

Hang in there, take it one step at a time. I know you can do this.

[@joohop]

Well Done Fella It's Gonna Be Sweet Bless Up

[@mademoisellekaya1438]

Look what you already created! Better than most people who never ever worked in this scale, made a, in any way shape AND form, frame for a house!! I'm VERY proud of you jay! 👊😎👌 Plus after playing all day outside you sleep like a rock, food tastes always much better and you learned! Thanks so much for sharing your experience so if someone else who's struggling with some simular things in the future and see your video, bam, they know what to do! Plus most inventions are made this way because somebody thinks, hmm.. that must get better if it's done such and so way.. and Voilà.. New inventions are made. Well done and look at that room inside! 😲 Somehow the dimensions you said it was going to be made me think it would be smaller but that is a cosy place, love it! 👌😊

[@jaylegere]

Thanks so much for watching and this lovely to comment. More videos and progress coming soon

[@da_ghoul9432]

I see in one of the opening shots you have some scrap plywood. You need to put some up in a corner to keep the frame from collapsing, screw it to the insode and take it down after you are done. A stiff wind on one of those sides will bring the whole thing down.

[@francismarcoux8944]

That how its done, except it needs a center ridge pole. Nice job.

[@lilianebangay6221]

we learn from our mistakes ,and im learning with you so thanks for that ,enjoy your video,s

[@brandoncarlson4188]

Great job, Jay. As someone who owns a remote property and does everything myself, I get it. Our processes aren't always perfect but they are rewarding!

[@jillspangler5139]

Oh, what a horrible turn of events! I know the redo doesn't hurt me as much as it hurts you. I am feeling the burn. Im back to work with you though. LOL I love it!

[@jesusgod4384]

i cant wait for your next video , i think you have done a great job take care from some one who cares Amen

[@davekauffmanjr2069]

Another thought, in case your building thing doesn’t allow what some of use are suggesting, how about building shelving and maybe a large bunk for your bed, build it in a rear corner, rear and outside wall, have a shelf 12 inches from the wall to keep the bed itself away from the wall, yet you can add some sort of insulation between the walk and you even if it’s just stacks of towels or blankets, not a part of the structure but it would keep the cold off you

[@rideordiechickdietoride4557]

GREAT video...A for effort.

[@robertgwinn8406]

Cool build.. I did the same thing with 10 x 20 pole car port. I used 12 cement blocks rope and 4' rebarb. Pretty sturdy. Dirt floor. I waited until undersized 2x4's went on sale bought u metal brackets attached to underside of poles. Lasted over 20yrs by just replacing tarp covers. I like eye hooks

[@bk6678]

Good try. I hope you will consider adding cross bracing between the rafters and plywood triangles in all upper and lower corners to prevent racking and rotation of the structure.

[@greghammond7956]

Great video Jay, I'm a recently retired Master Builder and I think you did a great job there mate, you had a crack and what's more you showed us the whole story including your mistakes, takes a big man to let others to see that you're not perfect, because none of us are, it's just that most of us try to hide it. The whole world seems to be going to Hell in a handcart at the moment mate, we are fast approaching a total lockdown here in Victoria Australia, as we struggle to contain this beast that is cutting a swathe through humanity across the globe, and being able to just sit down by myself and watch you make progress with your project in the beautiful, silent wilderness out there, is simply the best thing that I've done all week, it's just good for the soul. I'm eagerly awaiting your next episode, keep them coming mate, and you and your family take care, stay safe, and keep following your dreams. Cheers mate, best wishes from Down Under 👍😊🇦🇺

[@earnharvick]

Don't get yourself down Jay, you will figure a way.

[@808foodlover]

So close, yet so far. You'll get it and figure it out, I'm sure of it!

[@acimbobby]

this is a good idea to get the mostest out of your tent. Made yourself a lot of work. You have cocked it up big time but you can get round it I am sure. It's just a frame innit

[@RedStorm.]

Put some corner wood bracin in the frame to sturdy it up.

[@dulceamaya8603]

You can do this, You got this.

[@mariaotero5601]

Very cute indeed!

[@olmatedropbear7862]

Much better job than I could ever have done mate. I really hope you didn’t beat yourself up over this for too long. Funny when you make these KZbin videos and something goes wrong, you need to remember that the viewer is just along for the ride with you but it is still you journey. Personally I think it makes it more relatable when it isn’t always perfect. Have to say though… even though I know it works out in the end, I felt absolutely gutted for you at the end.

[@jimburge5298]

Hello from the UK, really enjoying your channel and what your doing. Not sure how your going to get around fitting the tent over the frame (I’m sure you’ll get it sorted).. on a separate idea, how about fixing a cross beam near the back of the frame, board it out and create some overhead storage. Anyway keep up the good work Jim

[@StayCationNLTalks24]

My friend you have a very good virtue called 'patience'... your first fire in the stove will make all the hard work worth it.

[@philipjoron9626]

Jay like you said it might settle down. So i would put some heat in building for a while to see if it does. For the sides you could put some sheathing to keep the height, if not your back to plan #2 good luck.

[@glennjones5349]

What a drag. Walls are to tall. Base is to wide. You will get it. I enjoy these videos very much. Thanks.

[@josephmcnulty6922]

Measure once cut twice

[@jaylegere]

I measure so many times it's unhealthy!

[@josephmcnulty6922]

Its not your fault they made the tent too small. Lol

[@samanthasurovec4639]

Is the problem that a fabric structure isn't rigid enough to get a perfect measurement? I'm guessing it really does just need to relax a bit, like newly washed and dried denim (no yelling at me for washing/drying my clothes 😆). Thinking it'll be ok in the end.

[@danlabelle6210]

Don’t get discouraged ur doing awesome job

[@Deputy2148]

Other then that good job. Not a bad job for roughing it yourself. Think about what I said previously about trimming down and see if it make sense in your head. You cant have your frame the same size as your tent because it will not allow your tent to fit fully around it. That's why you need to trim your walls down and bring them in. It's like taking a .40 cal ammo casing and trying to put it into another .40 cal ammo casing, you cant do it. But, you can always fit a 9mm ammo casing into a .40 cal casing. Same concept. Make your frame slightly smaller then your tent.

[@dnrk10]

Uhhhgggg the crunching, squeaking snow ( like nails on a chalkboard for some people ) is killing me to watch, but I love your vids, your tenacity, your work ethic, and your dream! I think, ( for what little it's worth ), if you just tied it shut, as best you can, that beautiful sun would work for you and help that material relax. A temporary wood stove would also warm and loosen the fibers up so you could start at the back and move side to side towards the front for a perfect fit ;). I wish I could be there to give you a hand. Keep up the great work... A lot of us are living vicariously through you.....! Dave

[@jeffdarosa7194]

👍🏼 As other’s have mentioned just skirt the bottom with some plywood.

[@freespeechforever]

Can only think that there is an easier way to do it! Still, I'm not out there freezing my bits off!

[@thomasarbo2393]

Wow I can’t believe you got that over that frame by yourself I’ll give you more credit than I was thinking good job run some two by fours across the about 3 feet up from the bottom that’ll that’ll tighten it up

[@crazyhorsejohnny1974]

Whatever you do make sure to zip your door before you make any adjustments.

[@karlsomers1145]

Keep up the good work,still loved the video! In the end it wil all be good,if you don’t do anything,nothing can go wrong.