Howdy, Going to jump off into something I've never done before. Reupholstering the inside of my 26 Tudor. It was done in 1969 when first converted into a hotrod. Red Volur that is really showing its age. Going to do everything but the bucket seats (no back seat) Going to use diamond tuck vinyl in camel tan. Has 3/8 foam backing. What do yall suggest for backing board ? Not sure that's what its officially called, but it's what the material will be attached to. Also, any words of wisdom you can share will be greatly appreciated. I'm sure I will asking for alot of advice. Thanks Bill
I used Masonite type board for door cards, kick panels, and other flat panels. I actually bought the stuff at the home store that is coated on one side and meant for bathroom walls. I put the coated side towards the windows. Lots of guys use ABS plastic sheets now as it can be heated and bent if need be.
be sure to add material along the front edge of bottom section of seat to add support for back of thighs that will help with comfort and leg space
Luan underlayment is substantial enough to hold panel mounting clips , map pockets , 5/16" staples & some of it (CHECK) is water proof .
I bought a couple of sheets of upholstery board from a local trim shop, I used HD black plastic trash bags cut up to seal the moisture from the board before covering it. HRP
In the past I would keep an eye out at the local big box stores/building supply outlets for damaged Formica, Arborite or other similar counter top sheet material. Most times they would drastically reduce the price because of the minor imperfections that would never be seen after being covered. The last few years I have used ABS sheets, available in a 1/8" or 1/4" thickness depending on your needs. I have even built a two piece, quick release, removable roof using 1/4" that when removed stores behind the seat in my A coupe. It wasn't all that difficult to form the slight compound curve into it. I had intentions of upholstering the roof in vinyl over the ABS but I like the way it looks now, laying down low. ABS, if left uncovered will have to be at least painted to protect from UV rays.
In reality by "semi" sealing it ,it may not be able to dry out as quickly & you may have unwittingly made the situation worse . Just a thought .
I went to Lowes and bought some 4'x8' ABS sheet. Made patterns from construction paper for all my doors, side panels, and trunk divider. I bought a 1950's Singer commercial sewing machine, and sewed up all of my interior. I removed the seat covers and carefully ripped the seams out and traced them on the material. Then sewed them together, and recovered my seats. I was surprised at how easy it all went, and even with screwing up my first front seat by sewing the pattern too loose, I was able to rip it out, and then tighten it up and re-sew the material again. It's certainly not professional grade, but even buying the material, used Singer machine, and a $165 headliner, I'm still under $1000 total!
Extra tip or two here;;;https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/tech-sew-at-home-upholsrety-hot-rod.604077/
Thanks to everyone for all of your great advice and sharing your wisdom. I am feeling more confident that I can do this with your help. I'm sure i will be continuing to pick your brains for guidence
The Jalopy Journal
