Classic Convertible Hoods Course: Materials and Correct Tensioning
Online 300-hour course in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning. 6 modules covering ISO 3795 (flammability of interior materials), ISO 13934-1 (tensile strength of textiles) and Gerber AccuMark. Dedicated tutor and open enrolment.
Classic Convertible Hoods Course: Materials and Correct Tensioning — studying from the United Kingdom
Classic vehicle restoration is a notable niche in the United Kingdom, supported by specialist workshops, heritage motoring events and a strong enthusiast community. Centres such as Bicester Heritage, Gaydon and the Midlands host restoration businesses, parts suppliers and engineering services for historic cars and motorcycles. Knowledge of historic materials, classic engine systems and conservation standards is valued. Organisations such as the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs and the Historic Vehicle Scheme support the sector.
Fees for the United Kingdom: £664 (Pound sterling), with instalments and employer sponsorship available.
Relevant bodies in the United Kingdom
Typical roles
Questions from the United Kingdom
Is there a UK professional body or regulation for classic vehicle restoration engineering?
Restoration is largely unregulated in the UK, with no statutory title for classic vehicle restorers. Relevant organisations include the Institute of the Motor Industry and specialist classic car clubs, which offer their own training and recognition. SEIUM's private qualifications are not accredited by any national body, so their standing with these organisations is for them to decide.
Do UK classic car restorers, dealers or auction houses value private online engineering training?
The UK classic car sector tends to value hands-on craftsmanship, documented restoration projects and reputation. A private qualification may complement this by showing technical study, but it is unlikely to be the main factor in hiring or client decisions. Acceptance depends on each business.
Can I study this part-time from the UK, and does my employer need to pay?
The programmes are online and taught in English, so you can study part-time from anywhere in the UK, with no visa needed. Study ranges from 300 hours to 1,900 hours, and an assigned technical tutor supports you. Fees can be paid in instalments. Employer sponsorship is possible if your employer agrees, which is more common in larger firms.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Describe the types of convertible top and their frames in classic vehicles.
Restore and adjust the frame and its folding mechanism.
Select canvases, vinyls and rear windows according to authenticity and performance.
Obtain patterns from the original top or from the frame.
Make up the top with appropriate seams and reinforcements.
Fit and tension the top, ensuring weatherproofing and appearance.
Establish maintenance and usage guidelines.
Who it's for
- Classic car upholsterer wishing to specialise in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning.
- Convertible top specialist wishing to specialise in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning.
- Convertible vehicle restorer wishing to specialise in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning.
- Technical pattern maker wishing to specialise in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning.
- Upholstery workshop manager wishing to specialise in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning.
- Technical textile materials specialist wishing to specialise in classic convertible hoods: materials and correct tensioning.
- Graduates in engineering or sciences seeking to enter classic vehicle restoration.
What you'll work with
- ISO 3795 (flammability of interior materials)
- ISO 13934-1 (tensile strength of textiles)
- ISO 811 (resistance to water penetration)
- ISO 105-B02 (colour fastness to artificial light)
- UNECE Regulation No. 43 (safety glazing materials)
- Royal Decree 892/2013 (Historic Vehicles Regulation)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Types of convertible top and their construction1.2Historical materials: canvas, mohair and vinyl1.3Inner lining and padding1.4Frame, bows and joints1.5Rear window: plastic and glass1.6Fixings, fasteners and tensioners1.7Identifying the original type1.8Documentation and material samples1.9Convertible top maker's tools1.10Workshop: diagnosing a convertible top
2.1Frame inspection2.2Corrosion and its treatment2.3Joints, bushes and pins2.4Frame deformation and its correction2.5Manual and power-assisted mechanism2.6Hydraulic rams and pump2.7Adjusting travel and stops2.8Lubricating the mechanism2.9Alignment with the windscreen and sides2.10Practical: frame inspection and adjustment
3.1Cotton canvas and mohair3.2Vinyls and their ageing3.3Linings and interlinings3.4Threads and their weather resistance3.5Obtaining patterns from the original top3.6Seam allowances and seams3.7Material calculation and yield3.8Symmetry and reference points3.9Fit tests3.10Practical: complete patterns for a top
4.1Seams and their types4.2Reinforcements and bow pockets4.3Fitting the rear window4.4Zips and their fitting4.5Piping and edges4.6Eyelets, snaps and hardware4.7Inner lining and its fit4.8Edge finishing4.9Dimension checks before fitting4.10Practical: making up a top
5.1Frame preparation5.2Fixing in the correct order5.3Clips, battens and adhesives5.4Progressive and symmetrical tensioning5.5Ambient temperature and its effect5.6Wrinkles and their correction5.7Adjusting the closure to the windscreen5.8Weatherproofing and wind noise5.9Opening and closing test5.10Practical: complete fitting and tensioning
6.1Cleaning the top by material6.2Waterproofing and its renewal6.3Correct folding and permanent creases6.4Plastic window: care and polishing6.5Use in winter and cold weather6.6Vehicle storage6.7Common workshop errors6.8Cost and timescales of the job6.9Documented real cases6.10Final project: made-up and fitted top
How you'll learn
100% online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable materials, recorded lectures and a dedicated technical tutor. No fixed timetable: students progress at their own pace within the intake, which makes it possible to combine with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is Gerber AccuMark, AutoCAD, Advanced Excel, Fusion 360, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real pattern-making and canvas-cutting procedures, fitting and tensioning on the frame, and water-tightness testing with water. Assessment is continuous, by module, plus the final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Describe the types of convertible top and their frames in classic vehicles.
Restore and adjust the frame and its folding mechanism.
Select canvases, vinyls and rear windows according to authenticity and performance.
Obtain patterns from the original top or from the frame.
Make up the top with appropriate seams and reinforcements.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior qualification required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient Spanish to follow technical regulatory reading.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme totals 300 hours, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is an average of 10 to 15 hours a week, compatible with a full-time job.
You work with Gerber AccuMark, AutoCAD, Advanced Excel and Fusion 360. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
A SEIUM own diploma on passing continuous assessment and the integrating project. It is in-house training, not an official Ministry qualification.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or Postgraduate Diploma in the same area are credited towards the higher programme. Check the credit transfer policy when you enrol.
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