Conv top repair
Racer
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 456
Likes: 113
From: Hill Country TX
I also have a convertible and have restored a couple cars, so have a little experience with auto upholstery shops. And that experience is that they will not do anything with material that is still mounted (obviously can't get the material in their machines). I have not found any shop that will 'hand stitch' a repair, of course ymmv.
No matter who does it or how it's repaired it will be noticeable to some greater or lesser extent. My recommendation is to save for a new top, but while doing that suggest you get a sewing awl and give it a try yourself. Pretty sure you'll be more careful and particular than anyone else. There are various 'sealants' you can apply to the inside of your repair. Or there is always duct tape, lol (not recommended). Good luck.
No matter who does it or how it's repaired it will be noticeable to some greater or lesser extent. My recommendation is to save for a new top, but while doing that suggest you get a sewing awl and give it a try yourself. Pretty sure you'll be more careful and particular than anyone else. There are various 'sealants' you can apply to the inside of your repair. Or there is always duct tape, lol (not recommended). Good luck.
Racer
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 494
Likes: 93
From: Bucks County PA
If it's in a spot that isn't very "stressed" when closed, I normally use Gorilla Tape on the underside since it's very strong. Once I join the torn sections together , I use a little Canvas / Fabric Adhesive along the seam. It's better looking that a piece of duct tape on the outside.. When the adhesive is fully dry, It can be "touched up" to match the top color. It's noticeable when you walk right up to it, but from a distance, much better than a lot of other repairs. I just did it 2 years back to a seam on my wife's convertible. You can usually get a few years out of the repair depending on the location of the tear. (And my wife puts the top up and down about 3-4 times a day this time of year.
