Need help / advice regarding dying / painting various materials

[TJ Simonson]

Hi all!
It's been quite a while since my last post!  I hope everyone is doing great!

I picked up an 89 Fleetwood Brougham that needs some TLC.  It has a cabriolet (? fake convertible) top.  It is a maroon color but has faded and needs to be freshened up.  The material is in great shape, it's just the color.  Can anyone give me any tips on how to dye the cloth?  What type of dye/paint to use?  Any tips on preserving it once it's done?  I have no clue where to start except an automotive paint store.   

Any knowledge you can pass along will be appreciated greatly!!!!

Thanks, as always!!

TJ

[Ralph Messina CLC 4937]

TJ,

You might call Color Plus 570-686-3158. Ask for Joanne. They make a wide variety of leather and vinyl dyes that yield superb results.
 There is a potential problem with your roof material. New convertible top fabrics and some leathers are treated to be waterproof and dye will not work. The dye just pools on the surface and doesn’t cover evenly. There are fabric dyes sold for interiors (like Eastwood), but I don’t know how well they’ll hold up exposed to the weather. I’d do a Google search and talk to company technical reps.

HTH.
Ralph