Backpad Reupholstering Options

[DC_neun_vierzehn]

I've searched and found a lot of 914 World threads on this topic. Most people were disappointed with their DIY results using kits from Auto Atlanta, 914 Rubber, AAA Upholster, etc. Seems like the poor results are not from the kits, but due to the skill level needed for the job (reupholstering the backpad requires more skill than reupholstering the seats). Even Ian Karr (AKA Mr. DIY) said it's a job for the pros in one of the posts.

So my questions are ...

1. I'm going to look locally ... do I need to find a speciality auto auto upholstery shop (one that specializes in classic cars or custom work) or should just about any most be able to do this job well?

2. Should I supply them the materials (e.g., 914 Rubber's vinyl kit and plastic core backing) or let them handle that?

3. What would be a fair price to pay locally (with and without me supplying the materials)? I called Autos International in Escondido, CA per George's recommendation and they quoted me $1,500. That's way beyond my budget.

[worn]

I've searched and found a lot of 914 World threads on this topic. Most people were disappointed with their DIY results using kits from Auto Atlanta, 914 Rubber, AAA Upholster, etc. Seems like the poor results are not from the kits, but due to the skill level needed for the job (reupholstering the backpad requires more skill than reupholstering the seats). Even Ian Karr (AKA Mr. DIY) said it's a job for the pros in one of the posts.

So my questions are ...

1. I'm going to look locally ... do I need to find a speciality auto auto upholstery shop (one that specializes in classic cars or custom work) or should just about any most be able to do this job well?

2. Should I supply them the materials (e.g., 914 Rubber's vinyl kit and plastic core backing) or let them handle that?

3. What would be a fair price to pay locally (with and without me supplying the materials)? I called Autos International in Escondido, CA per George's recommendation and they quoted me $1,500. That's way beyond my budget.

I am going to say this is best done DIY. You buy the fabric by the yard and cut to match the old pieces. You have to pull out the old seams to get the individual pieces. You can mark them on the back to help you remeber how they fit together. Some sewing is required, but I bet any alteration shop could do it if you don't have a machine. Then you glue the fabric to the masonite. I have used fiberglass to reinforce old masonite pressboard and that works well and protects it from water. Dry run the fitting of the fabric to the solid pieces.
I wish that I had:
1. Put a thin laayer of fabric backed foam on the solid board to mask imperfections that telegraph through the vinyl.
2. Used a bit more glue.
It is going to be contact cement and that has the problem of needing to dry just the right amount of time before bringing pieces together. Then they fall in love with each other instantly. To avoid getting it wrong, I put strips of acrdboard between the pieces, position them and then sequentially pull out the cardboard.

If this sounds too dificult, I hope that you find the right place.