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Boatbuilding

Composite Canoe Repair and Maintenance

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Course Overview

Composite canoes are light, efficient, and paddle like a dream, but canoe-country granite can chew them up if you’re not careful. We’ll repair that faithful paddling friend safely with simple tools and the right materials. Although we can’t always make them look new again, we can go a long way to keeping them structurally sound, looking better, and lasting longer. Polyester resins, fiberglass, and aramid (Kevlar) will be used to repair hull cracks. Installing skid plates and replacing seats, gunnels, and other fittings will also be covered. We’ll discuss long-term care and recoating. Canoes from local outfitters will be used as demonstrators of various levels of destruction and their appropriate repair techniques. Students are encouraged to bring their own canoes to work on with prior permission from the instructor. A materials fee (approximately $25-$50) will be charged for the repair of the canoe based on the work done. This course is open to students ages 14+.

Required Tools

  • Please bring your own N95 approved dust mask or respirator to the class

Dates

Thu, Jun 18th, 2026

Course Details

Hours: 9am-5pm
Tuition: $135.00
Latest Update: View recent changes →

Meet the Instructor

Ted Bell
Grand Marais, MN

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Composite Canoe Repair and Maintenance