Ripstop nylon is easy to apply in several different methods. One method that I have read about involves soaking in near boiling water, but the method I have used, and many of the combat pilots in GA use involves water based Polyurethane.

We coat one side of the assembled wing with generous amounts of polyurethane (bought at any Lowes or Home Depot). Then, we brush it on the dull side of the ripstop nylon until it is soaked. While both surfaces are wet, we lay it out, and starting at the center, spread the nylon to get the wrinkles out. The polyurethane stays wet and can be hand rubbed since it is water based. We stretch it somewhat to cover the ends, leading and trailing edge. Once it dries (about 2-3 hours) we trim it, and do the other side. Double reinforced packing tape is used to cover the leading and trailing edge.

In the field, cuts are usually repaired with double reinforced packing tape. Or, patches can be cut out and applied at home using the waterbased polyurethane.