Home > Uncategorized > What is the Best Automotive Headliner Fabric?

automotive headliner fabricThere is more to building a vehicle than the car’s internal mechanics. The interior of the vehicle is also incredibly important, both in terms of aesthetics and comfort. Furthermore, there are practical aspects to ensuring that a vehicle’s interior is in good shape. It’s difficult to use a car if it isn’t easy to relax within. Drivers take pride in the vehicles they operate, and with good reason. With that in mind, we’re diving into automotive headliner fabric, and why it’s important to consider the fabric utilized.

What is A Car’s Headliner?

A vehicle’s headliner is easy to take for granted. It’s not something a consumer inspects on a regular basis and is a somewhat complex piece of material. To create a headliner, you apply an outer layer of fabric over an inner substrate layer. The substrate attaches to a foam backing, which connects to a car’s roof.

While there is an obvious aesthetic component to a headliner, a manufacturer doesn’t merely put it in place for the sake of appearance. The practical component of a headliner is that it insulates the car. While automotive headliner fabric typically lasts for a significant amount of time, creating it properly is key to its quality and longevity. 

Selecting the ideal material is critical to how you plan to use it.

What Are the Different Types of Automotive Headliner Fabric?

There are several options to consider when choosing automotive headliner fabric, many of which CTI has experience with. Let’s explore some of the best below.

1.Royal Velvet.

Yes, velvet is a popular option for headliners, despite its association with clothing. One reason why many prefer royal velvet for automotive headliners is that they easily create a flat look. However, if you prefer a tufted appearance, royal velvet achieves that “look” when properly applied. We call this particular velvet a medium weight fabric, which means that it’s ideal for upholstery. It has a low sheen level, and will not stretch easily. Furthermore, it offers 35 different solid color variations, and it’s easily washable with cold water and mild soap (though one can also dry clean it).

2. Galaxy Vinyl.

If you would prefer a leather look without having to worry about the ethics of using real leather, galaxy vinyl is a great option. The fabric gives a great faux leather appearance, and comes equipped with a flannel backing. It’s not only used for upholstery, but a variety of crafts. With 15 different color selections available, it’s easily utilized and affordable. Durable and easy to clean with a damp cloth, it’s a heavyweight fabric.

3. Automotive Headliner Fabric.

Yes, this fabric is simply outright referred to as what it is. It’s meant for automotive use first and foremost, and we manufacture it to apply to headliners. It’s found not only on cars and trucks, but RVs and boats as well. Automotive headliner fabric arrives with a foam backing, and tends to be more affordable than certain alternatives. Made from 100% polyester, it’s designed to be lightweight, durable and easy to spot clean with a simple damp cloth. The color selection is more limited, however, offering just six different colors.

4. Marine Vinyl Fabric.

Another option to consider is marine vinyl fabric. This fabric is typically sold by the roll, and is much more affordable than standard alternatives. You may buy five yards of fabric at once, which makes it easy to use and relatively affordable. This fabric is resistant to water and stains as well as UV rays. It’s also quite heavy and is easily wiped down with a damp cloth similarly to its competitors.

5. Faux Leather Crocodile.

Those still interested in faux leather for headliners have an additional possibility to consider. With a sleek and elegant look, faux leather crocodile headliners appeal to many who want a more streamlined interior. It is upholstery weight fabric, which means that it’s both durable and easy to apply. This fabric has a felt backing, and is not only used for automotive headliners but other projects as well. Coming in five colors, one can also wipe it down with a damp cloth.

How Do I Source Automotive Headliner Fabric?

Automotive headliner fabric is a material that you should buy outright. It must be processed and prepared for proper application. Additionally, the product should be properly tested before it is applied. Therefore, it’s generally recommended that this fabric is mass-produced by an experienced manufacturer that not only ensures the quality of the fabric, but the variety of the selection.

CTI has a proven manufacturing process which ensures that fabrics are tested and treated upon delivery to the client. Our process promises that you’re involved every step of the way, from the initial discussions (during which we’ll discuss our procedures with you, allowing you to sign off on every step) to the final product run. You’ll oversee prototypes, as well as a pilot run.

Of course, whether you’re seeking guidance on automotive headliner fabric or are ready to go straight to production, CTI has the knowledge and experience necessary. Give us a call at 419-924-5566. We’re happy to discuss the services and products we offer, as well as how we serve our clients.