Master riggers may perform repairs that do not involve taking apart any bartacks on the canopy unless they have the correct bartack machine or equivalent. Special bartack patterns are used that are not normally found in the field. In addition, removal and replacement of these stitch patterns usually weakens the fabric to the point that it is necessary to replace or reinforce portions of the panels. This should also be considered in the repairs of load bearing and non load bearing ribs as most have these types of bartack stitches located at the ends.

Before performing a repair, contact with the canopy manufacturer is very important, as some of these repair standards and limitations may vary slightly.

Certified canopies should only be repaired using certified materials or equivalent. All replacement materials should come from the manufacturer or meet production quality and shelf life standards. Under-strength thread and fabric is frequently found in the field. The only way to be sure the material meets manufacturer standards is to obtain them directly from manufacturer or locate materials recognized by the manufacturer as acceptable for the repair needed.

The following are the repairs found in Section 1, Canopy and Lines:

Some methods are covered with older processes and procedures of repair; some include the newest methods as are used by most riggers today. All methods are acceptable to provide a safe and airworthy repair, but it should always be the focus of the rigger to understand all methods and strive to utilize the best possible technique to allow for repairs to be completed to the highest possible standards.

On lightweight material, the rigger should first set up the machine with similar material and thickness to set the tension of the machine before sewing the actual parachute.