Your Wish Is Our Command
Some want their canoe to be functional again - nothing special. Others want it to look like new. We take the time to listen, then we turn your dreams into reality. There are many steps involved in any canoe restoration:
Canoe Red
The image of a red canoe gliding over a still lake at first light is part of the Canadian landscape. The Chestnut Canoe Company produced their pleasure canoes in either dark forest green or what is now referred to as "Canoe Red". We have matched the original colour to give you that iconic red canoe.
Chestnut Prospector
Besides being one of the best designed canoes ever created, the Chestnut Prospector is also known for its colour - Chestnut "Grey" - a light green.
Original Materials
There is no glue in your old wood-canvas canoe. It is held together with about 2,500 brass tacks as well as some screws and bolts. We rebuild your canoe with the same woods and fasteners as the original.
Original Methods
It takes several months to restore a wood-canvas canoe. Cedar is soaked and steam-bent to make new ribs. Every tack is driven by hand. The oil-based paints, fillers and varnishes take months to dry.
Secret
People remark on how shiny our canoe restorations are.
Don't tell anyone, but the secret is a tough coat of carnauba wax.
It protects the finish and helps the canoe shoot effortlessly through the water.
If you only do what everyone else can do, where is the advantage in that?
Kettle River Canoes
P.O. Box 2324
695 Central Avenue
Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H0
250-442-0312
