• Hey Guest!
    British Car Forum has been supporting enthusiasts for over 25 years by providing a great place to share our love for British cars. You can support our efforts by upgrading your membership for less than the dues of most car clubs. There are some perks with a member upgrade!
    **Upgrade Now**
    (PS: Upgraded members don't see this banner, nor will you see the Google ads that appear on the site.)
Tips
Tips

TR2/3/3A Bimini Top

Share this page

jfarris

jfarris

Jedi Trainee
Country flag
Offline
When I bought my car, the seller gave me a large piece of cloth backed vinyl. I asked myself numerous times what I would ever do with it. I saw a discussion about Bimini or Bikini tops and got to thinking, I could do that. My Mom could sew anything and make it look professionally made - I cannot. I made myself a paper pattern using my top, the front specifically, but I had no idea how far down the sides would hang. I got out the old portable sewing machine and started practicing. I was happy with the basic design, but should have cut and fit all the front pieces (facings) together before I sewed one side. They are slightly different. Like several other BCF examples, I used two down straps in the back. I also used two side straps.
I'm happy with how it works, but it looks like a sixth grader sewed it together. It may be the prototype for another. I think I would try sunbrella material the next time - no Union Jack designs yet.

IMG_3505.JPGIMG_3506.JPG
 
That's a great idea. I'm moving to Florida where it is easy to get caught in the rain. Just need something to keep it dry long enough to get home.
Could make that for <$100.
Steve
 
I was surprised that the Tenax fasteners were 10 X $4.50 (cheapest through Rimmer). The roll of nylon webbing was about $15. The vinyl was free and I already had some lift-the-dot fasteners. I did buy a 3/8" leather punch ($20) for the Tenax holes in the vinyl.
Good luck!
 
STeve 1958 said:
That's a great idea. I'm moving to Florida where it is easy to get caught in the rain. Just need something to keep it dry long enough to get home.
Could make that for <$100.
Steve
Click to expand...
It will keep out some of the sun, which is abundant and strong in Florida, but be of little help with the rain, also abundant and strong.
Tom
 
Back
Top