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Project Details

Fabric 1

Connect Vinyl - Tan
Producer/Manufacturer: Keyston Bros.
Primary Use: Main Fabric

Fabric 2

Raylon Loop Pile Carpet - Saddle
Producer/Manufacturer: Keyston Bros.
Primary Use: Main Fabric

Fabric 3

Original Ford Seat Fabric from 1974
Producer/Manufacturer: OTHER
Primary Use: Main Fabric

Fabric 4

Vintage Wooden Rulers
Producer/Manufacturer: OTHER
Primary Use: Hardware/Findings

Design Name
Dwight Miller

Design Company
Boatman Marine Canvas

Fabrication Name
Dwight Miller

Fabrication Company
Boatman Marine Canvas

Installation Name
Dwight Miller

Installation Company
Boatman Marine Canvas

Please describe the project specifications

For the past three years, our client has been meticulously restoring his 1928 Ford Model A from the ground up. Every component, from the frame to the drivetrain, has been replaced with new parts—except for the body, which retains its original charm. When it came to the interior, the client sought a design that was clean and simple, yet with distinct elements that would stand out.

We custom-crafted new door panels, featuring raised bead internal outlines and inlaid pockets for a subtle yet refined detail. The original front seat frames were restored, while the back seat was entirely built from scratch, preserving the vintage feel with modern craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from old Woody wagons, we created a headliner using vintage wooden rulers, evoking the iconic wood-slat design. The client was so thrilled with the unique look that he decided to leave the metal roof off, allowing the open-air design to showcase the craftsmanship from above as well.

This project embodies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, where timeless design meets modern creativity.

What is unique or complex about the project?

We dedicate 99.9% of our time to custom boat work, but occasionally, a project comes along that’s simply too cool to pass up. That’s exactly what happened with this 1928 Ford Model A hot rod—a standout opportunity to apply our expertise in custom boat craftsmanship to the automotive world.

This project allowed us to showcase our precision and creativity, building custom door panels, a rear seat, and a headliner completely from scratch. Drawing on our deep knowledge of creating durable, eye-catching designs for boats, we crafted a headliner that truly "rules," using vintage wooden rulers to bring a nostalgic, yet innovative touch to the car’s interior.

The result is a head-turning hot rod that seamlessly blends boat-building techniques with automotive craftsmanship. The car has become a show-stopper, turning heads wherever it goes, and we’re proud to have taken on this once-in-a-lifetime project.

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