How to Fix a Rip in My Soft Top

Convertible soft tops on vehicles have their advantages when the occupants would like to ride with the top down on a pleasant day. The disadvantages of soft tops amount to more upkeep and cleaning maintenance on the material from which they are made, which is usually canvas. Soft tops may be prone to tears and cuts, sometimes along the folding ridges or in areas where they have been accidentally cut. Heat, moisture and UV light also contribute to soft top deterioration. Fortunately, tears and cuts can be repaired by the vehicle owner, using some products and basic household tools.

Instructions

1

Extend the top up on your vehicle and lock it in place, creating a stretch. Place some absorbent towels directly below the tear or rip, so water will not damage the interior carpet or fabric. Mix a solution of dish washing soap in a bucket of warm water, and use a cleaning brush to clean the ripped area. Remove all oil, wax, dust and oxidation from the damaged area. Wipe with towels and use a hand hair dryer to thoroughly dry the damaged area -- you do not want any moisture remaining over the ripped area.

2

Use a sharp utility knife to cut away any loose strands of the top material. Pull away any unraveling cord or thread, and trim it flush with the top's surface. Thread an upholstery needle with upholstery thread that matches the color of your top. Begin sewing from one end, curving the needle down into the topside and bringing it up through the opposing lip of the tear. Draw it taut. You many use a thimble if you wish.

3

Sew an evenly spaced tight row, keeping the stitches about 1/4 inch away from the tear. Take your time; move slowly. Make sure you puncture through the material and pull the joint completely shut. Sew the tear closed at the end, perform a loop knot with the needle and cut off the excess with a pair of scissors.

4

Place a piece of duct tape on the underside of the tear. Run a small bead of upholstery adhesive into the tear seam, directly on top of the stitches. Let the glue dry and cure, according to the manufacturer's directions. Use a pair of scissors to cut a piece of marine canvas large enough to cover the tear. Hint: a patch with rounded edges will keep sharp lips from protruding upward. Begin at one corner, and sew around the perimeter of the patch. Make even, closely spaced stitches.

5

Knot the thread when you have sewn all sides of the patch. Cut the excess thread with scissors. Use some seam sealer or silicone adhesive to run a small bead around the edges of the patch to keep the seams waterproof. As an option, and for cosmetic purposes, you may install an inner marine canvas patch, using the sewing technique as you did for the outside.