interior trim fabric question

[Jim Rosenthal]

Most original GT40s that I have seen (which isn't that many cars- maybe seven or eight, tops) had the nylon ballistic cloth fabric interior with the nickel-plated grommets in the seats. That is the interior look that most people like for these cars.

However, if you look at the interior photos of Colin Comer's GT40, which is 1043, I think (Collector Cars: Muscle Cars, Exotic Autos, Sports Cars and Specialty Vehicles at Classic Auto), it shows a black leather interior which was evidently a factory option/upgrade. I like that interior and would like to copy it for my car. Here's the question: the seating surfaces are upholstered in a leather material that is stamped (at least that's what it looks like) to resemble woven leather material. (the other areas are a non-embossed black leather which will be much easier to duplicate) Can anyone tell what this stuff is and does anyone know where to find it? I've looked through a lot of upholstery books and nothing so far, and my trim shop doesn't know where to find it, either.

If anyone knows what it is, and would be willing to share that and any source information, I'd be grateful. Thanks, as always, in advance.

 

[Rick Muck- Mark IV]

Jim,

I think while you will find that the bolsters are leather, the textured inserts are embossed vinyl. The material used here is not actually "breathable", however if you use the old Ford "Comfortweave" vinyl, it is breathable.....that's the good news. the bad news is that Comfortweave in the actual woven vinyl material is no longer made. Story is the sole machine that manufactured the vinyl was sold and in Kobe, Japan when the earthquake destroyed it! The reproduction Comfortweave is embossed, not woven. NOS yard goods are available, a friend recently bought some to restore his Boss 302 Deluxe interior. I can get you the info if you wish.