While the top i did was not a 31 vic' i imagine the process is not that different.
I used a plastic tarp' cover as a guide to make patterns. Turned out well enough.
It is true that you should only drive a few tacks in a short distance until you are happy with the top stretch and fitment. Then you can pull them out & move things, drive them in again.
Check this thread for anything you might find useful. There's some pictures of half done tops for inspiration.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=81713
And someone might even be able to email you .PDF of a service bulletin.