1.0 Note: Ripstop tape has in the past been a commonly used repair material. Time has shown,
however, that the adhesive used can be detrimental to the strength of the fabric over the long
term. Consequently, most manufacturers do not recommend its use on certificated canopies.
In addition, some of the modern, coated fabrics do not accept the use of the ripstop tape without
additional sewing to help hold it in place.
1.1 Spread out the canopy on a smooth surface.
1.2 Smooth out the damaged area and hold in place with the
shot bags [Figure A].
1.3 Inspect the damaged area.
1.4 Trim any loose threads and smooth any loose fabric back
into place.
1.5 For small holes, a single-side patch will suffice. For holes up to .5" in diameter, or a tear, a
double-sided patch is necessary.
1.6 If the damage is a tear, the two sides must be positioned so the edges touch. Use scotch tape
to temporarily hold 1.7 For a hole, cut a piece of ripstop tape 2" square. For a double-sided patch, cut two pieces
[Figure C]. For a tear, cut the tape approximately 2" longer than the length of the tear and cut
two pieces.
1.8 For the single-side patch, round the corners with approximately a 1/8" radius. For the double-
sided patches, place the two pieces face to face and round the corners of both pieces at
the same time. This ensures a perfect match and alignment [Figure D].
1.9 For the 2 x 2" patch, peel back one edge of the paper backing and center the tape over the
damaged area. Press the exposed adhesive side of the tape to the fabric and smoothly peel the
rest of the paper from the fabric with one hand while smoothing the fabric with the other
hand [Figure E].
1.10 Use the wallpaper roller to smooth out the patch and remove any air bubbles from the patch
[Figure F].
1.11 For a double-side patch, turn the canopy or damaged material inside out. Align the second
piece of ripstop with the edges of the first and repeat the process. Again smooth out the tape
with the roller.
1.12 If the patch is to be a temporary one, the repair is complete. If, however, it is to be permanent,
it may be advisable to sew around the edge of the patch. In this case, use the single
needle machine and sew approximately 1/8" in from the edge of the tape. Overstitch a
minimum of 1.25" [Figure G].
2.0 INSPECTION:
2.1 The ripstop should be centered over the damaged area.
2.2 The tape should be smooth with no air bubbles.
2.3 Double-sided patches must be aligned.
2.4 If sewn, tension, edge spacing, and overstitch must be correct.
