Fine Point Interior

[Tom Wesenberg]

Originally Posted by Charles Reese

Very timely set of posts! I am currently struggling with most of these same issues. I have had the good fortune of sharing e-mails with several highly knowledgeable interior folks but again, even when they know what’s right, the proper materials to reproduce them just don’t exist. To add to my confusion, i cannot even garner a consensus as to the color for my particular body style and month of assembly.

It seems very unlikely that, as a sole restorer, I will ever happen upon the ‘correct’ upholstery materials, let alone have the ability to personally sew them to specifications. For example, the samples from the kit companies vary extremely widely as to their materials/finish/patterns, etc. Likewise, the cowl/door/hip panels for my open vehicle were originally a unique cardboard material with a pattern pressed into them (thanks to the folks on FB that have provided photos). None of the current ‘kit’ providers I have contacted are able to provide this … all glue the seat material over a cardboard panel. The owner of our town’s oldest auto upholstery shop was kind enough to contact several of his suppliers but with no luck.

As noted above, one of the most highly rated upholsters is retiring. I hope his wealth of information will somehow be retained for future restorers (upholstery book, etc.). I also look forward to the upcoming Judging Standards revisions for more detailed guidance.

With all the vehicles that used EMBOSED CARDBOARD, it's hard to believe that someone doesn't make it anymore. I've been looking for about 30 years for some for my 1949 Chevy 1 1/2 ton truck.