How do I repair / patch the canvas on my Granta Kayak?

Matt Prosser

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Aug 19, 2016, 5:50:13 AM8/19/16

to Canvas Kayaks

Hi, I have a British Granta double kayak which I used many years ago and now wish to restore for more fun on the water with my son.

I got it out of the bag and find that the canvas is very thin in places with a large tear as well. Before I charge in an figure out a way to repair the canoe does anyone have any advice or experience they can pass on?

Much appreciated,

Matt

Matt Prosser

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Aug 19, 2016, 5:17:01 PM8/19/16

to Canvas Kayaks

OK, so I've done some research and here is what I am going to do.

I am going to fix some splits and weaknesses in the wooden frames with Cascamite adhesive and stainless steel screws.

The canvass is too thin and fragile for simple patching so I am going to reskin the bottom below the waterline with sheets of Hypalon. I will then paint the whole undeside with two coats of Toobcoat Hypalon Inflatable Boat paint.

To prepare the surface I will use Toluene solvent cleaner and then apply the Hypalon sheets with Toobcoat 2-part Hypalon adhesive.

The method and supplies are all presented at www.ribstore.co.uk and there is a wealth of videos on Youtube about repairing rigid inflatables and inflatable rafts, which is equally relevant to this project.

I hope this helps. I'll post my results when complete.

Ken Christensen

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Sep 13, 2016, 12:17:51 AM9/13/16

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Hi Matt,

How did this strategy work for you? There are similar tears along the wooden spines of my grandfather's canvas kayak, and I'd love to repair them and maintain the aesthetic of his original work.

Any tips appreciated!

Thanks,

Ken

Matt Prosser

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Apr 5, 2017, 5:57:40 PM4/5/17

to Canvas Kayaks

Hi Ken,

I put my canoe away for the winter and have only just got it out again so apologies for not replying sooner. I'm hoping to repair the canoe in time for a run on the water this Easter in a few weeks time.

I have set up a Facebook Group called the Vintage Folding Canoe Appreciation Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1603129716658833/ so please join and share your experiences.

I am also making a video diary of my refurbishment so see the facebook group for updates. My first video is a survey of the boat at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_sQs5wDklo

Regarding the tear in the hull I have used Tear-Aid Type A tape which is just the job. see http://www.tear-aid.co.uk/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2