Patching Canvas Bottom of a Canoe

A patch of silk, properly applied makes a good repair for a hole worn through the canvas bottom of a canoe. Loosen the canvas for about 2 in. around the hole and apply thick shellac. Insert a piece of silk in the hole to lap under the edges of the canvas. Permit the shellac to dry slightly and smooth down the patch. Protect the joint further with white lead, smoothing over the patch and painting it when dry.