Wood and fabric.

[RobertG]

I'd like to make some wood dashboards, door panel inserts, and other interior trim pieces using exotic hardwoods. Show quality stuff. Like what you get in a Rolls Royce.

What kind of tools do I need? Got any recommendations on woodworking books or DVD's to buy?

I did a few things in fiberglass, but for certain cars I would prefer the capability to work in wood.

I also have a need to re-upholster some seats, make some door panels, and a few headliners.

Same question as far as tools and reference material. Also whats the latest and greatest thing going in industrial sewing machines? Stuff that can handle leather.

I'm working my way towards not having to farm out any part of my restoration/custom work on cars. Want to do it all in house with my own two hands.

 

[nissan_crawler]

For both, I would suggest asking a high end cabinetmaker/finish carpenter, and upholestry shop if they'll teach you. Books and such work great, and would help (although I don't know ones to recommend), but if you find an old guy that's been doing it for years, the tribal knowledge is priceless.

As for tools, router, bandsaw, belt sander, planer, etc.

Watch ebay for industrial sewing machines, they go for a relatively decent price. I'm going to buy an older one soon. I want to make some canvas curtains and such for the garage, and to cover shelving, and it's not economical to pay somebody else to do it.

 

[Bolster]

For good woodworking discussion, you can also see:

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/forumdisplay.php?f=3

 

[rsanter]

usually those pieces are done with a veneer overlay. this is both for appearance and because of the cost of the exotic woods.

how much 'shape' are you looking at in these pieces?

another thing that is bieng done more is to design it in CAD and then have it carved out with a CNC router or mill

bob

 

[RobertG]

First major project is a 66 Cadillac Fleetwood. The idea is to strip out the stock instrument panel and dashboard and remake it out of teak and Auto Meter gauges. The dashboard is relatively flat. Hard to describe but I want to use a lot of teak and black leather on this interior. Give it a real upscale and custom feel.

 

[gotmud13613]

As far as the exotic wood goes be ready to spend a small fortune in blades and bits I have made a few things with the wood below it is really HARD stuff to work with, but it sure is nice

This African ebony wood, The wood turns well, but a little hard on tools due to its density. Takes a very high finish. It is too hard to use nails or screws without first pre-boring. The dust can be irritant. Odor and taste are not distinct.


Purpleheart has a moderate to severe blunting effect on tools; sharp, high speed steel knives therefore are recommended as are 15 degree cutting angles. It can be somewhat difficult to work with using either hand or machine tools.

Paduak is an amazing bright orange wood from South Africa. With age and light it's colour does darken, to a beautiful burnt umber colour,so it is a great wood to use in intarsia projects, but you must allow for the colour shift, and/or use a UV protectant. The wood is moderately dense, much like red oak to work with. It has an open pore, cuts easily but has a coarse texture, so can splinter off when routing if you're not being careful.

 

[rsanter]

some cool woods to look for:

purple heart
red heart
zebra wood

another wood I have dealt with that looked really good was a chunk of almond that came from a firewood pile. it made some nice turnings

bob