Spaces between planks

[Lew's Canoes]

I am restoring a 1932 OT HW model, 17 foot. The hull is now repaired structurally, canvased, and filled. As I believe is typical of many old canoes, the planks have shrunk over the years, leaving spaces between. This leaves quite a contrast in the interior of the canoe between the dark, aged planks and the almost white canvas. Can anyone offer a suggestion on how to address this? Would it be advisable to stain the canvas in the spaces with a dark oil based stain? Or should I have filled all of the spaces from the outside before canvasing? Or is this just the way it is.....? Thanks!

 

[charvey]

Just fine the way it is. Like you I was concerned about the spacing between the planks and everyone assured me that this is normal. Eventually that white canvas will start to darken.

 

[dboles]

If the gaps bother you because of the contrast and are wide enough,try using a kids school felt marker they come in many colours.Whicheverone you choose know that the ink from them can tend to run.Works though