How to Put Vinyl on Car Doors

Vintage car doors had flat door panels that were easy to cover with vinyl upholstery. Modern cars often have molded door panels, not easily covered with flat vinyl fabric, but you can still put vinyl on car doors. To put vinyl on car doors that are shaped, make sure the original panels are in good repair. If there are any deep cuts or large blemishes, use a vinyl repair kit before applying the new vinyl.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft cloth
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 teaspoon dish soap
  • Bucket
  • 1 can textured spray-on vinyl paint
  • 1 pop-on spray can nozzle with adjustable tip
  • Old newspaper or cardboard
  • Fold the soft cloth, wrapping it around your hand. Pour the water and soap into the bucket. Dip the cloth in cleaner and press the excess moisture out by squeezing the cloth with your other hand. Prepare the surface for the spray-on vinyl by wiping the area using the soft wet cloth. Let the surface dry completely.

  • Shake the textured spray-on vinyl quickly for about 30 seconds. Follow the directions for placing the pop-on nozzle on the can. You will probably have to remove the original nozzle by lifting it straight off the end of the tube holding it. Some pop-on nozzles will fit over the original can nozzle.

  • Turn the nozzle's adjustable tip 1/4 turn to the right. Hold the can about six inches away from the test paper or cardboard, and spray a layer of vinyl on to see if the texture looks the way you want it to look. To increase the texture, turn the nozzle farther to the right. To get a smoother, thicker finish, turn the nozzle to the left.

  • Hold the can about six inches away from the car's door panel. Spray the vinyl on in a smooth, even and fairly thick layer. Let dry for up to 24 hours. Apply a second coat after the first coat is completely dry.