I have spent many nights snug as a bug in a 12'x12' canvass tarp. This is one side of a bigger 1750 type native hunting lodge less the bell ends.<br><br>I have fire just inside the front usually with a reflector of logs and or rocks, and I can think of several ways to set it up depending on the weather.<br><br>For a 12'x12' you can set it like a "A" frame and lift one side up. <br>You can stake 3 corners down and lift the 4th with one pole. You can off set 4 poles 2 long and 2 short and wrap the canvass making a 4 pole tee pee sorta.<br><br>With 2 12'x12's you can make probably the best shelter anyone would ever want.... but this takes a few poles 5 minimum, and the ends need to be closed. I use this often when there is a group.... <br><br>my 12x12s have loops sewn one every 3 feet around the edge, and every 3 feet on the seams on one side.... the possibilities are almost endless, and 1 man can carry this if folded and rolled tight, which ends up at about 10"x8"x28" I don't know the weight off hand, maybe 8 to 10 lbs......<br><br>Canvass is heavier that nylon, but with care will out last nylon.<br>Nylon is a no fire deal, just a single spark will melt a hole.<br><br>When I go modern with a tent any fire I have is 25 yards down wind.<br><br>Nylon winter tents are simply stronger, and a bit tighter. They are not ment to be warm one way or the other. Bibler make a single layer gortex tent that might cut wind better so far as wind chill is concerned..... ventilation is a good thing in winter, as there is less "Breath" to coat the inside of fabric. Wishin I had a bibler..... I have seen snow storms inside a tent ;-) That makes things wet.<br><br>I have both canvass and nylon....when hiking I use the nylon, when boating I use the canvass....... Mac