I got the flames laid out in my headliner w/ roughly 1/2" thick foam. The only vinyl I have right now is that like you get at walmart with the furry white stuff on the back and its a pretty heavy piece. I tried to just see how that material would lay down and when shaping it around the flames like in the dips between the flames it wrinkled up and didnt want to lay down too good once again like it was too thick of a material. So any thoughts? Do I just need thinner material?

 

Check the local fabric stores for vinyl. I don't know what you are using for glue, but I would use carpet glue. You just have to be careful. Once it's down, it's glued!

 

I'm using 3M headliner adhesive spray

 

Might have to use a fabric that will stretch, to avoid the wrinkles. You'll have to post some pics when you get this done...

Marty

 

I own and operate a custom upholstery shop. Here's how I go about it. First, you are going to have to use some very firm foam, such as landau top pad. soft foam tends to squish, leaving an edge that is poorly defined. Secondly, use a good automotive quality vinyl such as Soft Side or Enduratex. That stuff WalMart sells is definatley not what you want. Next, that 3M stuff is fine for simple headliners, but is not up to the task of what you are doing. Use some landau top and trim contact cement, spray grade. You can brush this on or spray it through a cheap siphon cup paint gun, but use a regulator or it gets everywhere. spray or brush both surfaces, let it get tacky, and press together. One other item that is very handy is a heat gun. After applying glue, use the heat gun to heat up the vinyl so it stretches much better. The heat gun is essential to a perfect job, but is kinda spendy. Also don't get the vinyl too hot or it will blister. I suggest you play with a small scrap first so you'll recognize just right from too hot. Hope this helps.


77 F-250 CREW CAB 460 4-SPD
76 F-250 460 C-6
75 F-250 390 4-SPD

 

Thanks abunch...were can I get the material like I need?

 

Any automotive upholstery shop should be able to supply everything but the heat gun and spray gun, which can be picked up at your local auto parts store.