DIY Repair Guides

Most damage on the trail can be fixed with a few simple tools. Follow these step-by-step guides to keep your gear in service for many more seasons.

Patch a Canvas Tear

Time: 30 minutes + 24 hours curing  |  Difficulty: Easy

You'll need

• Canvas patch, 2 cm larger than the tear on every side
• Seam sealer or canvas adhesive
• Scissors and a clean cloth
• Mild soap and water

Steps

1. Clean the area around the tear with mild soap and water, then let it dry completely.
2. Trim any loose threads and round the corners of the patch so they do not peel.
3. Apply a thin, even layer of seam sealer to the inside of the canvas around the tear.
4. Press the patch into place and smooth out any air bubbles from the centre outwards.
5. Repeat on the outside, then leave the tent pitched or laid flat for 24 hours to cure.

Free a Jammed Zip

Time: 10 minutes  |  Difficulty: Easy

You'll need

• Graphite pencil or zip lubricant
• Soft brush
• Pliers (only if the slider is loose)

Steps

1. Stop pulling. Forcing a jammed zip bends the teeth and makes the problem worse.
2. Brush away grit and dried mud from the teeth and the slider.
3. Rub a graphite pencil or lubricant along both rows of teeth.
4. Work the slider gently back and forth until the fabric frees itself.
5. If the slider feels loose, squeeze it very slightly with pliers so it grips the teeth again.

Repair a Broken Tent Pole

Time: 20 minutes  |  Difficulty: Medium

You'll need

• Pole repair sleeve
• Strong tape
• Fine file or sandpaper

Steps

1. Remove the damaged section and file down any sharp or splintered edges.
2. Slide the repair sleeve over the break so it is centred on the damaged area.
3. Wrap the sleeve tightly with tape at both ends to hold it in place.
4. Re-insert the pole and check that the tent holds its shape under tension.
5. Replace the pole section before your next long trip. A sleeve is a field fix, not a permanent one.

Re-Waterproof Your Canvas

Time: 2 hours + 24 hours drying  |  Difficulty: Medium

You'll need

• Canvas waterproofing spray or wax
• Soft brush and a bucket of lukewarm water
• A dry, shaded area

Steps

1. Pitch the tent and brush off dirt with lukewarm water. Do not use detergent, which strips the treatment.
2. Let the canvas dry completely in the shade.
3. Apply the waterproofing evenly in overlapping strokes, paying extra attention to seams and the roof.
4. Wipe off any excess before it dries to avoid dark streaks.
5. Leave the tent pitched for 24 hours, then hose it down to check that water beads on the surface.

Fix a Leaking Seam

Time: 45 minutes + 12 hours curing  |  Difficulty: Easy

You'll need

• Seam sealer
• Rubbing alcohol and a cloth
• Small brush

Steps

1. Find the leak by spraying water from outside while a helper watches from inside.
2. Mark the spot and wipe the seam clean with rubbing alcohol.
3. Brush a thin layer of seam sealer along the seam, extending 1 cm beyond the leak on each side.
4. Leave the tent open and dry for 12 hours before packing it away.

Clean and Store Your Tent

Time: 1 hour + drying  |  Difficulty: Easy

You'll need

• Soft brush
• Lukewarm water
• Breathable storage bag

Steps

1. Shake out dirt and brush the floor and walls with lukewarm water.
2. Dry the tent fully before storing it. Damp canvas grows mildew within days.
3. Fold loosely instead of rolling tightly, and vary the fold lines each time.
4. Store it in a breathable bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Need a hand?

If the damage is beyond a quick fix, send it to our workshop. We will repair it and keep you updated at every step.