Safe way to put holes in headlining for fixings

[cleverusername]

Replacing the headlining and things are going well so far. I am being very careful to avoiding ripping the fabric, which I see as a distinct possibly, since it needs to be tensioned.

What worries me is cutting holes for the various fixings that need to go back like the interior light and the rear view mirror. The last thing I want to do is spend all this time fixing it and then rip it cutting holes for these items.

I see no way the holes can be made before gluing because tensioning in the fabric moves the material. Also such a hold would be a stress riser and a good place to start a tear.

How did others who fitted new headlinings add the various fixtures?

[oily66]

I got mine fully fitted then just felt for the holes and used a fine screwdriver to puncture it.
It’s pretty logical once you find the first one

[2door-toledo]

Same as oily66, I had the headlining installed, felt the area through the headlining to find the correct spot, then used a small extremely sharp knife (scalpel or craft knife) to make the hole, was straight forward and problem free.

One the headlining is installed it's best to fit glass right away as the seals help to keep the headlining tensioned.

[bazyerma]

Hi

I find the hold first, then get a punch the right size red hot and push it through to stop it fraying / splitting.

Regards

Barry