How to Reupholster a Car Headliner

Gluing the car headliner is not advisable, as the fabric typically used consists of a sponge layer and a very lightweight fabric layer. The sponge remains attached to the cardboard, while the part that comes off is a very light mesh. The glue stains permanently, causing a very unattractive aesthetic effect. Instead, replacing it is a bit laborious but not difficult. You need to remove the headliner (which is simply a piece of pressed cardboard) by disassembling the door pillars and any handles. Place it on a large table or on the floor. The temperature for this operation should be at least 18/20 degrees Celsius. Remove all the sponge attached to the headliner with a scraper until you have a smooth surface. Lay the new fabric on top and glue it with an appropriate adhesive, which you can find on Amazon for £12.50 per tub. A specific piece of fabric measuring 1.5x2 m, also available on Amazon, can be found for £31.98 and comes in various colours. Remember to apply the fabric in small pieces, no more than 30 cm at a time, to ensure it adheres well. Fold the corners for the edges, make holes where the lights and handles are, always folding the edges inside. Allow to dry thoroughly for 48 hours. Then you can refit the headliner and reassemble the vehicle.