I would highly recommend buying a canvas pliers (from an art store) . They have 4 inch wide flat jays and a knuckle that allows you to press it against a surface to leverage a tight pull.

I layed out my fabridc and used spring clamps to hold it to the gunnels. Then I flipped it over (deck side up) and put a few staples on top of the gunnels through the fabric. Then I went to the other side and pulled it tight with the pliers and stapled it. Do this until the entire hull is drum tight. Then I sewed the deck together removing staples as I went along. I've seen many skin boats and very few are as tight as mine and other builders who use this method. (for what it's worth)