How To Make A Kayak Cover: Why You Need a Kayak Cover
As a kayaker, you know that having a good kayak cover is important. It helps to protect your kayak from the elements, keeps it clean and dry, and can even extend the life of your kayak. But with so many different types of kayak covers on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of kayak covers and how to choose the right one for your needs. We’ll also give you some tips on how to care for your kayak cover and how to prolong its life.
Different Types of Kayak Covers
There are many different types of kayak covers on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will best suit your needs. Here are some of the most popular types of kayak covers:
- Universal kayak covers: These covers are designed to fit most kayaks. They’re a good option if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a custom cover, but they may not provide as much protection as a custom cover.
- Custom kayak covers: These covers are made to fit your specific kayak. They’re more expensive than universal covers, but they’ll provide a better fit and more protection.
- Sit-on-top kayak covers: These covers are designed for sit-on-top kayaks. They typically have a hole in the center so you can access the cockpit.
- Inflatable kayak covers: These covers are designed for inflatable kayaks. They usually have a cinch-top closure and can be inflated for extra protection.
How to Choose the Right Kayak Cover
Now that you know the different types of kayak covers, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are a few things to consider:
- The type of kayak you have: The type of kayak you have will determine what type of cover you need. For example, a sit-on-top kayak will need a different cover than an inflatable kayak.
- The size of your kayak: You’ll need to make sure that the cover you choose is big enough to fit your kayak. Measure your kayak before you shop for a cover.
- Your budget: Kayak covers can range in price from around $30 to $200. Choose a cover that fits your budget.
- Where you’ll be using your kayak: If you’ll be using your kayak in salt water, you’ll need a cover that can withstand salt water. If you’ll be using your kayak in a pool, you won’t need a cover that’s as durable.
Tips for Caring for Your Kayak Cover
Once you’ve chosen the perfect kayak cover, it’s important to take care of it so it will last for years. Here are a few tips for caring for your kayak cover:
- Store your cover in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it.
- If your cover gets wet, let it air dry before storing it.
- If your cover gets dirty, spot clean it with a mild soap.
- Inspect your cover regularly for rips or tears.
With these tips, you can be sure that your kayak cover will last for years.
What You’ll Need
If you’re an avid kayaker, you know that protecting your kayak is important. A kayak cover can help to keep your kayak in good condition, and can also help to keep you safe while you’re out on the water. But if you don’t already have a kayak cover, how do you go about making one?
Here’s what you’ll need: a measuring tape, a large piece of fabric or tarp, a sewing machine or needle and thread, scissors, and a friend (optional).
First, measure your kayak. You’ll need to know the length and width of your kayak in order to make sure the cover you make will be the right size.
Next, cut your fabric or tarp to size. Make sure to leave enough fabric to fold over the edges of the kayak and to sew the cover shut.
If you’re using a sewing machine, sew the cover shut. If you’re not using a sewing machine, you can hand-sew the cover shut using a needle and thread.
Finally, ask a friend to help you put the cover on the kayak. This is optional, but it can be helpful to have someone else there to hold the cover in place while you put it on the kayak.
And that’s it! You now have a homemade kayak cover that will help to protect your kayak.
Making your own kayak cover is a great way to save money and to make sure that your kayak is properly protected. With just a few simple materials, you can make a cover that will last for years. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!
Step One: Cut the Fabric
Looking for a way to protect your kayak from the elements? A kayak cover is a great option! In this post, we’ll show you how to make your own kayak cover.

The first step is to cut the fabric. You’ll need to measure the length and width of your kayak, and then add a few inches to those measurements. Then, use a sharp pair of scissors or a rotary cutter to cut the fabric to those dimensions. Be sure to cut straight lines!
If you’re using a sewing machine, you’ll need to cut two pieces of fabric, as you’ll be stitching them together. If you’re not using a sewing machine, you can simply cut one piece of fabric and fold it in half.
Once you have your fabric cut, you can begin sewing the cover. If you’re using a sewing machine, start by sewing the two pieces of fabric together along the sides and bottom. Then, turn the cover right-side out and sew a seam around the top. If you’re not using a sewing machine, simply sew a seam around all four sides of the cover.
Now you have a finished kayak cover! This cover will protect your kayak from sun, rain, and other elements. Enjoy your time on the water, knowing that your kayak is well-protected!
Step Two: Sew the Sides
Sewing a kayak cover is a great way to protect your kayak from the elements and extend its lifespan. And, it’s a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your kayak in great condition, consider sewing a cover for it.

Here’s what you need to do to sew a kayak cover:
- Using a sewing machine, sew the two long sides of the fabric together. Be sure to leave a few inches at the top open so that the cover can fit over the top of the kayak.
- If you’re using a waterproof fabric, you may not need to seam seal the edges. Otherwise, you’ll need to use a seam sealer to prevent water from leaking through the stitching.
- To sew the sides of the kayak cover, you will need to measure and cut two pieces of fabric that are long enough to reach from the front to the back of the kayak plus an extra 2 inches.
- Next, you will need to sew the two pieces of fabric together along the long side using a sewing machine.
- Then, you will need to hem the two short sides of the fabric.
- Finally, you will need to sew a seam down the middle of the fabric to create two separate compartments for the front and back of the kayak.
Sewing a kayak cover is a great way to protect your kayak from the elements and extend its lifespan. And, it’s a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your kayak in great condition, consider sewing a cover for it.
Step Three: Sew the Front and Back
Looking to add a personal touch to your home decor? Why not try making your own pillow covers? It’s a fun and easy project that anyone can do.
To make your own pillow cover, you will need two pieces of fabric, a sewing machine, and some elastic. First, sew the two pieces of fabric together at the sides, using a sewing machine. Leave a gap of about 12 inches at the top. Next, turn the cover inside out.
Then, sew the top edge together, using a sewing machine. Finally, turn the cover right side out and insert elastic around the top edge, using a safety pin. Sew the elastic in place.
To sew the front and back of the cover together, you will first need to measure and cut your fabric. Then, pin the fabric together. Next, sew the two pieces of fabric together, using a sewing machine or a needle and thread. Finally, hem the edges of the fabric.
That’s all there is to it! In no time at all, you’ll have a brand new pillow cover that you can be proud of.
Step Four: Attach the Elastic
If you’re an avid kayaker, you know the importance of being able to transport your kayak from place to place. Whether you’re going on a cross-country road trip or just down to the local river, you need to be able to secure your kayak to your car. And while there are a number of ways to do this, we think the simplest is by using an elastic cord.
Just follow these easy steps and you’ll be good to go. First, attach the elastic cord to the underside of the hull, close to the stern. You can use a plastic zip tie or similar to cinch the cord tight. Just leave about 6 inches of cord free, then cut the excess. To prevent fraying, simply tie a knot in the end of the cord.
Now it’s time to attach the elastic to the fabric of your car. Just use a heavy-duty needle and thread to start sewing one end of the elastic to the fabric. Then, stretch it out and sew the other end to the fabric. Make sure to leave enough slack in the elastic so that it can stretch out and fit over the kayak.
And that’s it! In just a few minutes, you’ve securely attached your kayak to your car using an elastic cord. So next time you hit the open road, you can rest assured knowing your kayak is safe and sound.
Step Five: Put It All Together
As any kayaker knows, one of the most important things you can do to protect your kayak is to keep it covered when you’re not using it. A properly fitting kayak cover will help to keep your kayak clean and dry, and will also protect it from UV damage.
There are a few different ways to cover a kayak, but one of the most popular methods is to use a tarp and bungee cord. This method is relatively simple and effective, and it’s also very versatile – you can adjust the fit of the tarp to accommodate different kayak sizes and shapes.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a tarp and bungee cord to cover your kayak:
- Use the bungee cord to secure the tarp to the front and back of the kayak.
- Thread the cord through the eyelets on the tarp.
- Leave enough slack in the cord so that the tarp can be pulled tight, but not so much that it sags.
- Hook the cord onto the front and back of the kayak.
- Tighten the cord until the tarp is snug.
- Tie the cord off to keep it in place.
- To put the cover on the kayak, first drape it over the hull of the kayak so that the bow is at the front and the stern is at the back.
- Then, gather the fabric at the center of the kayak and tie it together with a rope or bungee cord.
- Finally, stow the cord or rope in a location where it won’t get in the way or snag on anything.
By following these simple steps, you can help to keep your kayak in great condition for years to come.
Conclusion: How to Care for Your Kayak Cover
Your kayak is an investment and, like any investment, you want to protect it. A kayak cover is a great way to do just that. But, like anything else, your kayak cover needs to be properly cared for if you want it to last.
Here are some tips on how to care for your kayak cover:
- Store your kayak cover in a cool, dry place when not in use. A garage or shed is a great option.
- Do not leave your kayak cover in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. The sun can cause the fabric to fade and deteriorate.
- When putting your kayak cover on or taking it off, be careful not to rip or tear it.
- If your kayak cover gets dirty, you can clean it with a mild soap and water solution.
- Inspect your kayak cover regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you see any, be sure to repair them immediately.
By following these simple steps, you can prolong the life of your kayak cover and keep it looking like new. So, don’t neglect your kayak cover – give it the care it needs and it will protect your kayak for years to come.