We had this problem with our Sterling manufactured in 2000. Gradually over a period the canvas shrank, to the point that we could not fit it correctly even on the minimum pole setting.
Eventually the problem became so difficult we had the cabin canvas replaced by Tent Valeting services, specifying the cut to be slightly oversize.
Clearly this is not the ideal solution and I sought other peoples views on the issue. General opinion seems to be that you should always try to let the canvas dry out with the maximum possible tension when saturated.
It doesn't seem to be a very widespread problem. Perhaps the canvas used by Pennine at the time was more susceptible to shrinkage, or the cut was not perfect.
I'd be interested in hearing of any other cases of shrinkage and of possible solutions. I have heard of one dealer who hangs 4.5 Kg gas cylinders from the canvas to stretch it but I'm not sure of his technique to attach them!
Ian
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