Restoring rear quarter panels

[Mr Spigot]

I have a 1960 2 door saloon and although it has the original maroon rear quarter panels, they are looking rather sad. The card backing is warped out of shape and the vinyl (?) covering is wrinkled and some of the trim is coming off. The colour has faded to a rather orangey maroon. Although I don't mind it not being concours, with a new set costing over £400, I want to keep what I have but wondered if anyone had any advice on the best way to freshen them up?

[James k]

With regards to warping, I've had good results by ironing them. I wetted them first with a water spray then ironed on a low heat with greaseproof paper in between the iron and the panel, checking frequently if it was getting too hot.