It is simplest to replace the tube with a new one; however, you can also patch it; if you want to replace the tube, skip to the section on Reinstalling the tube

Take the emery cloth from your patch kit and rough up the surface of the tube around the hole; this helps the glue to adhere better

The tube surface under the patch must be dry and clean

Spread a layer of glue around the hole; the area of glue needs to be larger than the patch

Let the glue dry until it is tacky and has lost its gloss (usually a matter of minutes)

Place the patch over the hole

Many patches have a paper or foil backing on the bottom (the side that will touch the glue) and a cellophane cover on the top side

Peel the patch from the paper or foil backing, and leave the top cover on

Use your fingers to press the patch in place, centring it over the hole

Smooth out any air bubbles that may be trapped

Test the seal by putting a few strokes of air into the tube and checking the patch

Do not inflate too much as this can break the patch seal

Sometimes you will find a second puncture at this point that needs to be patched

The tube is now ready to be reinstalled