I just re-carpeted my Sprite by the Claricci method(TM) and would like to
add one tip. I used a carpet needle (about 3 1/2" long with a 180 deg.
curve) and black nylon carpet thread to sew the tucks and darts in the
tranny tunnel to get a nice shaped fit without any visible seams. Sew on
the underside, butt joining the edges and being sure to catch at least two
of the matt threads on each side of the joint. When I get around to
replacing the hardura rear wheel cover pieces I imagine this will look
great.
The best part of fitting it this way is that the pieces sit in place without
glue. The vertical surfaces are all done in panelling like the original,
covered with the same vinyl I used to sew my new seat covers. For the
footwells, I used a black ribbed rubber mat I got at the local ACE hardware
sold as carpet runner. I find my big feet slide in better with this than on
carpet, plus it looks reasonably original and is easier to keep clean.
This leaves carpet only on the floor under the seats, the tranny tunnel, and
on the trunk area behind the seats. The tailored fit on the tunnel makes
glue unnecessary and the rest depends on gravity.
Regards,
Glen Byrns
'59 bugeye
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