How to Mount Canvas to a Boat

Mounting canvas to your boat is usually done as a means of covering the cockpit or top of your boat. Canvas covers are an essential to protect your boat from the wind and the rain during the winter months and also provide sun protection during the summer. Canvas can also be used for the entrance to the cock pit. Although canvases can be made according to your specification, mounting can be a do-it-yourself job if you have the right tools. Marine supply companies can provide you with everything you need.

Things You'll Need

  • Snaps
  • Base snaps
  • Drill and bits
  • Anvil and punch snap tool
  • Screwdriver
  • Vice grip
  • Tape
  • Mallet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove old snaps if you're reattaching an old canvas. Choose a drill bit that is a slightly larger than the hollow post in the snap; this can be found coming from the female part of the snap. Hold the snap in place with a vice grip, and drill through the center of the post; the snap should come right off.

    • 2

      Attach new snaps. Put the male portion of the new snap through the hole and, working from the back, place the female portion of the snap in line with the post. After making sure the dome of the snap is on the right side of the canvas, place the dome in the die of an anvil-and-punch snap tool. Put the tip of the tool in the hollow post and strike it with a mallet. This will affix the snap.

    • 3

      Install base snaps on your boat. Start by sizing the base screw, which holds the receptive end of the snap, and choose a drill bit that is smaller than the screw. Find the proper place on the hull of the boat and drill a pilot hole. If you are drilling through gel coating, you need to begin with a countersink drill bit that is made for wood screws. This will prevent damage to your gel coat. Screw in the base snap.

    • 4

      Attach canvas to boat. Stretch your canvas over the area and line up the snaps. You may need to add extra snaps and base snaps. If not, attach the cover to the the boat with tape, and then work your way around the area attaching each snap to the base. You should have a taut fit, but not too tight.