Scratch built headliner

[CoryRJanssen]

I was wondering if anyone has successfully made a good headliner shell from scratch, if so, how?

Thank you

[MagicRat]

I thought one can get headliner kits which include shells for some cars.

I once made a headliner for a '79 Chevy Van from tongue-and-groove pine paneling. It looked cool, from a '70's 'shaggin' wagon' perspective.

[CoryRJanssen]

I dont want to fork out a couple hundred $ for a headliner so im trying to make my own.

[HeavyJ]

what kind of vehicle? do you have any kind of shell to start with?

[CoryRJanssen]

its an 82 suburban and no i have no shell to work with, the existing ones middle layer was cardboard?! and so it was sagging.

[gouldie1903]

could probably make one starting with a thin piece of wood, add some foam then some fabric. no idea how hard it would be, but keep us posted on your progress if you do it.

[MagicRat]

Originally Posted by CoryRJanssen

its an 82 suburban and no i have no shell to work with, the existing ones middle layer was cardboard?! and so it was sagging.

Hmm......almost flat roof, just with a slight curve............. the pine paneling sounds pretty good!!

Seriously, thin fiberboard is available at Home Depot in 4x8 sheets. This would serve as a good backing. Cut it to fit, so it is held up by the plastic tripm at the edges of the ceiling panel.

Then, get some foam-backed fabric....... it is still made for custom upholstery jobs, a place that does marine or auto upholstry can get it for you, in a variety of colours. Use spray - on fabric adhesive to attach it to the fiberboard.