The "close enough" approach to tent repair won't get you very far. Tents are subject to heavy stresses from rough ground, high winds and just normal use. Take a deliberate approach and you won't be sorry. A standard sewing machine should easily handle the work, but if you don't have experience with sewing machines, consider finding someone who does. Seam-sealing glue and heavy-duty nylon cloth are available at camping supply stores.
Instructions
1. Clean the torn area with dishwashing liquid and water, then thoroughly dry the tent.
2. Cut two patches of heavy-duty nylon cloth about 2 inches (5 cm) larger than the tear (see A).
3. Coat one side of each patch with seam-sealing glue. Let them dry until the glue becomes tacky.
4. Apply one patch to each side of the torn area. Be careful to keep the tent material under the patch as flat as possible. This will ensure watertightness.
5. Using a sewing machine, zigzag-stitch completely around the edge of the patches. Continue stitching over the patches in a dense zigzag pattern (see B).
6. Apply additional seam-sealing glue to the stitching, both inside and out.
Tags: heavy-duty nylon, heavy-duty nylon cloth, nylon cloth, sewing machine, torn area