Appointments : Make an appointment with the upholstery shop ahead of time to "get on the list”. Most of the shops (Street Rod Upholstery Shops) will have a backlog. It's better to cancel than to not have an appointment at all. If you do cancel, the shop will keep you in mind and work-you-in much quicker when you are ready because they will be familiar with your project. 

Transportation: If your car cannot be driven, which is common when restoring a car, check to see if the shop has a way to get the car or knows a reputable hauler. Also make sure they have enough insurance to cover a catastrophe. I have a Car trailer if the car needs to be towed within reasonable miles.   

Pre-Work: It is common for people to remove their interior during the process, BUT it is recommended that you leave it in place so the shop can reuse some fasteners that are unique to the car or to simply know where and how the component was installed originally. If it has been removed, it takes additional time to research the original  placement and color.

Wiring : Make sure there is a little bit of play within the wires. The wires should have enough slack under the dash to come over the top of the kick panels and firewall panel at the very bottom of the dash.

Heater Hoses : Make sure they have a little slack in them also. You may have to put a spring in the hose where it makes the turn from the kick panel into the fender well. This will keep it from folding up or collapsing.

Windows and garnish moldings : If you have power windows, make sure that you discuss where to put the switches in the door panel. If you plan to paint the moldings the same color as the interior, have the paint shop primer the molding pieces when the car is primed.

Custom Dash: If you decide to build a custom dash, keep in mind that if the dash will come out into the car (two, three or four inches) make room for a 1/2" peace of windlace. You can fix this by making channels for the 1/2" windlace in the side of the dash with a piece of 5/8" cut in half tubing. Also, keep in mind that the door panel will also require a space between the dash and the door; make a 5/8" to a 3/4" gap for this area.

Relax : Don’t worry about all the details of upholstery. Experienced upholsterers will be glad to guide you thru the details and styles available for your car. Just remember to contact the shop early in the restoration process so there will be plenty of time to plan and prepare. Be patient, All things worth while takes time.