Woodgrain Console Covering for 1968 and 1969

Q: Woodgrain Console Covering for 1968 and 1969

Is there any company reproducing the correct style woodgrain material for the 1968 and 1969 consoles? All I have seen so far is a cheap rip off; can’t anyone realize that people are willing to pay for an exact reproduction.

A: Regarding the recent discussion on the Woodgrain Material used on the ’68/1969 Firebird Console, Dash Trim, Radio Face, AshTray…..

The ‘hobby’ is definitely in need of some correct reproductions here. Yes, there are repro’s out there in the form of ‘contact paper’ to actual die-cut pieces. The obvious problem is the attention to detail. Correct graining/texture is important (I say.. if you’re going to do it, do it right). The forming around edges and within recessed areas is important. The integrity and longevity of the adhesive is very important. In the case of the Console and Dash Trim, the ‘contact paper’ was bonded to thin sheets of metal. This metal backing is also a good candidate for correct reproduction since it too does not wear too well after 30+ years. Based on some of the repro pieces I’ve seen out there, it seems to me that many companies have offered the cheapest form of a ‘quick-fix’ which may be ‘ok’ to some who just want an ‘ok’ appearance. If someone goes to the trouble of preparing Die-Cutting Tools, obtaining correct material and using some sort of forming process, why would they not pay attention to detail and avoid obvious mistakes ? Because not everyone is that picky (they think) and why put alot into something when you can keep costs down and still make a tidy profit for these ‘Best We Can Do Parts’ ? The big difference between 1968 and 1999 is technology. Yes, things are basically more costly today than they were then but thanks to advances in technology, we now have the capability to duplicate an old process much more accurately (and many times even cheaper). I’d agree with Gary here; the key element here is obtaining the correct ’embossed’ material for appearance, grain, texture and wear. Once this source is found, the next steps are relatively easy. Dies must be formed and a process defined for fitting the woodgrain onto the thin metal parts. If someone comes up with a source for the material, I can approach several shops I work with regularly about the die work and forming process. If all we wanted here was a new looking woodgrain, we could simply go down to the local Home Depot and buy a roll of contact paper; so why spend money on cheap repro parts ? Do it right and the price will be justified.

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