Wrinkled Canvas

[Red Dog]

After applying finish coat, 2 weeks passed and canvas wrinkled vertically
and horizontally. Any advice?

[davelanthier]

I had this happen once because the wood was still holding moisture when I canvased it . With the canvas filler applied the wood shrank in about a week but the canvas didn't . I tried many things but recanvasing the canoe once again was the only remedy .

[Dave Osborn]

Red,
Before you give up and recanvas it, try loosening the canvas at the sheer line, two or three ribs at a time, pull it tight and reattach it. Start in the center and work systematically toward the bow and stern. I lucked out and did not have to un-tack the stems. I've had to do this on two occasions after canvasing and filling in high humidity.
BOL
Dave

[Douglas Ingram]

This happens often enough. Let it get cold and the canvas will equalize its tautness, then stabilize. If that doesn't work, retighten like Dave says.