How can I recanvas a canoe?
(For complete instructions see out recanvasing tutorial.) Strip off all of the moldings, trim and rub rails. go over the wood work to tighten any loose fastenings and sprung planks. Use thin epoxy or Git-Rot to firm up any punky wood. Now carefully go over the entire hull with course sandpaper or file to smooth down any bumps or pimples. Due to the fine weave of the Dacron, any irregularities will telegraph and show through. Varnish the entire hull and you are ready to recover. Order the Dacron with one foot extra after measuring stem to stem along the Gunwale. Apply HEATnBOND tape along the gunwales, down the keel and around the front and sides of the stems. Peel off the keeper paper from the HnB and drape the fabric over the hull and stick it in place. You can purchase a printed copy of this process, or just view it for free online.
