Monday, December 8, 2008

Tent Repairs :: How To Fix A Torn Tent

The "Just In Time" approach to repairing a nylon tent won't get you very far. You are either going to get very wet or have a gale blowing through your tent. Tents are subject to heavy stresses from rough ground, high winds and just normal use. Take a deliberate approach and you won't be sorry. A standard sewing machine should easily handle the work, but if you don't have experience with sewing machines, consider finding someone who does. Seam-sealing glue and heavy-duty nylon cloth are available at camping supply stores.

Things You’ll Need:
  • Dishwashing Liquid
  • Seam-sealing Glue
  • Dishwashing Liquid
  • Heavy-duty Nylon Cloth
  • Sewing Machine With Heavy-duty Nylon Thread
  • Scissors
Step 1
Clean the torn area with dishwashing liquid and water, then thoroughly dry the tent.

Step 2
Cut two patches of heavy-duty nylon cloth about 2 inches (5 cm) larger than the tear (see A).

Step 3
Coat one side of each patch with seam-sealing glue. Let them dry until the glue becomes tacky.

Step 4
Apply one patch to each side of the torn area. Be careful to keep the tent material under the patch as flat as possible. This will ensure watertightness.

Step 5
Using a sewing machine, zigzag-stitch completely around the edge of the patches. Continue stitching over the patches in a dense zigzag pattern (see B).

Step 6
Apply additional seam-sealing glue to the stitching, both inside and out.

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