a manhole liner and a method of using the same are provided . the manhole liner is sized substantially equally to the largest diameter of the manhole , so that the liner does not have to stretch to be pressed against the manhole wall . additionally , the liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening . a bladder , preferably stretchable circumferentially and having a diameter less than the smallest diameter of the manhole , is inserted into the liner . the bladder is expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole to dispense resinous material from the liner , while the liner is able to fold over itself in areas having a diameter less than the original diameter of the liner . because the bladder stretches to produce a smooth outside surface , the resinous material will migrate to areas in the folds and will cure with a smooth interior surface .