{"id":34751,"date":"2026-08-11T13:41:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-11T13:41:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/?p=34751"},"modified":"2026-09-04T12:09:40","modified_gmt":"2026-09-04T12:09:40","slug":"curved-automotive-body-panels","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels With a Shrinker Stretcher"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Creating a curved automotive body panel from a flat sheet of metal can seem difficult, especially when the panel needs to follow a wheel opening, windshield frame, fender contour, or other compound shape. A sheet metal shrinker stretcher makes this process more manageable by allowing a fabricator to control the shape of the metal through localized shrinking and stretching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The basic approach is simple: shrink the metal where you need an inside curve and stretch it where you need an outside curve. By gradually working different sections of the panel, you can turn a flat or partially bent piece of sheet metal into a controlled curved form without relying entirely on heat, extensive cutting, or multiple welded sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Quick Answer:<\/strong> To fabricate a curved automotive body panel with a shrinker stretcher, first create an accurate pattern, transfer the shape to sheet metal, establish the required flange or bend, and then progressively shrink or stretch the metal along the marked area. Make small adjustments, frequently compare the panel with the vehicle or template, and finish the shape with appropriate metal-forming and smoothing tools.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Makes Automotive Body Panels Difficult to Fabricate?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Automotive body panels rarely consist of a single simple bend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A fender, wheel opening, door edge, windshield surround, or custom repair panel may need to curve in more than one direction. If you simply bend the sheet metal along a straight line, the result may not follow the required contour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The challenge is controlling where the metal moves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shrinking reduces the amount of material along a selected section, causing that area to tighten and curve. Stretching does the opposite by allowing the material to expand and form an outward curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This controlled movement is what makes a shrinker stretcher useful for custom automotive sheet metal work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When Should You Use a Shrinker Stretcher?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A shrinker stretcher is particularly useful when the panel has a curved flange or edge that needs to conform to an existing shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common automotive applications include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wheel-opening repair panels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fender edges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Windshield frames<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Door-panel edges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trunk and rain-gutter sections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Curved body trim<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Custom restoration panels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Small compound-curved sections<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Woodward Fab describes its shrinker\/stretcher tools as suitable for creating radius bends, contours, and multi-curved shapes, including repair panels for wheel openings and windshield frames.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For larger or highly sculpted surfaces, a shrinker stretcher may be used alongside tools such as an English wheel, planishing hammer, hammer and dolly, or other forming equipment rather than being the only tool used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Start With the Vehicle&#8217;s Existing Shape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before cutting metal, study the area you are trying to reproduce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look at:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The direction of the curve<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The width of the flange<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The transition between straight and curved sections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjacent panel gaps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mounting points<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The original panel&#8217;s crown or contour<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If the original panel is available, use it as a reference whenever possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For restoration work, a cardboard, paper, or flexible template can help you capture the shape before transferring it to sheet metal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fabrication tip: Do not start shrinking immediately. Spend time understanding where the panel needs to gain or lose shape. A good pattern can prevent significant rework later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Create a Template Before Cutting the Final Panel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A template provides a physical reference for the finished panel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the project, you can use cardboard, paper, flexible plastic, or another suitable pattern material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mark:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Overall panel dimensions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bend lines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flange locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centerlines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reference points<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Areas requiring shrinking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Areas requiring stretching<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For a replacement wheel-opening section, for example, the template should show how the repair panel transitions into the surrounding bodywork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more reference points you establish, the easier it becomes to identify whether the metal is moving in the intended direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Choose the Appropriate Sheet Metal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Material selection affects how easily the panel can be formed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Material type<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sheet thickness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Required strength<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Formability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compatibility with the original vehicle panel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Welding requirements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For restoration work, matching the material and approximate thickness of the surrounding panel can make forming and joining easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Always verify the operating capacity of the particular shrinker\/stretcher and dies before forming the material. For example, Woodward Fab lists models designed for applications involving mild steel and aluminum, with capacities varying by model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Cut the Blank Slightly Oversize<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid cutting the final panel exactly to its finished dimensions at the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead, leave a reasonable amount of material around the perimeter for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Forming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trimming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flanging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fit-up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Final adjustment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This gives you room to correct the shape as the panel develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Accurate cutting still matters. A clean, controlled blank gives you a better starting point for forming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Establish the Bend or Flange<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A shrinker stretcher generally works on an edge or flange rather than simply reshaping a completely flat sheet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Create the required flange or bend before beginning the shrinking or stretching operation. Woodward Fab&#8217;s guidance notes that the workpiece used with its shrinker\/stretcher is formed with a 90-degree bend and a suitable lip for insertion into the jaws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The flange becomes the section that the jaws grip while the tool progressively changes its shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> The exact flange dimensions and setup should follow the instructions for the specific machine and die being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Mark the Areas That Need to Move<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is one of the most important steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use your template and reference measurements to identify where the metal needs to become tighter or more open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a general rule:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need an inside curve? \u2192 Shrink the material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need an outside curve? \u2192 Stretch the material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not treat this as an all-or-nothing operation. Mark the sections that require the greatest amount of movement and work progressively toward the areas requiring less correction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This helps create a smoother transition instead of producing a sharp change in curvature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7: Work the Panel Gradually<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Place the flange into the appropriate jaws and begin with controlled, relatively small forming increments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After each series of operations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Remove or reposition the panel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the developing curve.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compare it with the template.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the panel against the vehicle where practical.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify high and low areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Continue forming only where additional movement is needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The objective is <strong>controlled progression<\/strong>, not maximum movement per operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A common mistake is trying to create the complete curve too quickly. Excessive forming in one area can make the panel difficult to correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shrinking vs. Stretching: Which One Should You Use?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Required Shape<\/th><th>Primary Action<\/th><th>Typical Result<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Inside curve<\/td><td>Shrinking<\/td><td>Edge becomes tighter and curves inward<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Outside curve<\/td><td>Stretching<\/td><td>Edge expands and curves outward<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Compound shape<\/td><td>Combination<\/td><td>Controlled multi-directional contour<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minor correction<\/td><td>Small localized adjustment<\/td><td>Fine-tuning of the panel<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The correct operation depends on the direction in which the material needs to move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Woodward Fab&#8217;s shrinker\/stretcher system uses separate shrinking and stretching dies, allowing the fabricator to change between the two forming actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Form a Wheel-Opening Repair Panel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Wheel openings are a good example of where a shrinker stretcher can be useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A practical workflow is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Pattern \u2192 Cut blank \u2192 Create flange \u2192 Mark curve \u2192 Shrink progressively \u2192 Test-fit \u2192 Trim \u2192 Finish<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by reproducing the opening&#8217;s profile with a template.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Transfer that profile to the sheet metal and leave enough material for the flange and final trimming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the flange is established, progressively shrink the appropriate edge while checking the radius against the original opening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not rely only on visual inspection. Hold the developing panel against the vehicle or a reliable template frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach is particularly useful because wheel-opening repair panels often require a curved flange rather than a simple flat patch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Create a Compound Curve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A compound curve changes shape in more than one direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where patience becomes especially important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of trying to produce the entire shape with the shrinker stretcher, break the job into smaller forming zones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Zone A:<\/strong> Establish the primary curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Zone B:<\/strong> Introduce additional curvature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Zone C:<\/strong> Blend the transition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Zone D:<\/strong> Check the panel against the surrounding body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This sectional approach makes it easier to understand how each forming operation affects the overall panel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For larger curved surfaces, the shrinker stretcher may be combined with other metal-shaping equipment. Woodward Fab identifies shrinkers and stretchers as tools for curved edges, while English wheels and other forming tools can be used for broader contoured surfaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What If the Panel Develops Wrinkles?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Wrinkles or localized distortion usually indicate that the metal has moved unevenly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Possible causes include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Too much shrinking in one location<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Uneven forming pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insufficient support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect forming sequence<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attempting to create too much curvature too quickly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Stop and inspect the panel rather than continuing to apply force.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the distortion, additional shaping or smoothing with appropriate metal-forming tools may be necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The goal is not simply to make the edge follow the correct radius. The entire panel needs to transition smoothly into the surrounding surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Check the Panel Before Final Installation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before welding or permanently installing the panel, perform a complete fit check.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Panel alignment<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Does the repair panel sit at the correct height and angle?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Radius<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Does the curve follow the original body contour?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Panel gaps<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Are the surrounding gaps consistent?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Surface transition<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Does the new section blend smoothly into the existing panel?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Flange position<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Does the flange sit correctly for the intended joining method?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Excess material<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Can the panel be trimmed without losing the required shape?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A panel that looks correct on the workbench may behave differently once positioned against the vehicle. Test-fitting throughout the process reduces that risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shrinker Stretcher vs. Other Metal-Shaping Methods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A shrinker stretcher is not a replacement for every body-panel forming tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Tool<\/th><th>Best Suited For<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Shrinker<\/td><td>Creating tighter inside curves<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stretcher<\/td><td>Expanding material for outside curves<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>English wheel<\/td><td>Developing broad, smooth contours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hammer and dolly<\/td><td>Localized shaping and correction<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Planishing hammer<\/td><td>Smoothing and refining formed surfaces<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Slip roll<\/td><td>Producing broad cylindrical or consistent curves<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In many automotive fabrication projects, these tools complement one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The shrinker stretcher is especially valuable when the edge or flange itself needs to curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Mistakes to Avoid<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trying to make the complete curve in one operation<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Progressive forming provides better control than attempting to force the metal into its final shape immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skipping the template<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Without a reference, it becomes difficult to determine whether the panel is actually following the original contour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cutting the blank too small<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Once material has been removed, you cannot simply stretch it back into an oversized blank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignoring material thickness<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Different materials and thicknesses respond differently to forming. Always work within the machine&#8217;s specified capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focusing only on the edge<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>A correctly curved flange does not guarantee a correctly shaped body panel. Check the entire surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Failing to test-fit<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Frequent test-fitting can identify problems before they become difficult or expensive to correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An Expert Approach: Form Less, Check More<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>For automotive restoration and custom fabrication, one of the most useful habits is to make small adjustments and inspect the result frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of asking, \u201cHow much more can I shrink this?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhere does the panel still need to move?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That change in approach gives you better control over the final contour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A shrinker stretcher is a precision-forming aid, but the fabricator remains responsible for reading the material, controlling the forming sequence, and checking the finished geometry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where Does a Shrinker Stretcher Fit Into the Automotive Fabrication Process?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A typical custom body-panel workflow may look like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Inspect \u2192 Measure \u2192 Create Template \u2192 Cut Blank \u2192 Bend\/Flange \u2192 Shrink or Stretch \u2192 Test Fit \u2192 Refine \u2192 Trim \u2192 Finish \u2192 Install<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The shrinker stretcher fits primarily into the forming and contour-development stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is why having a clear fabrication plan matters. Cutting, forming, fitting, welding, and finishing are connected operations, and a mistake early in the process can affect everything that follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a broader overview of automotive sheet metal materials, manufacturing processes, and fabrication tools, see Woodward Fab&#8217;s guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/automotive-sheet-metal-materials-processes-applications\/\">Automotive Sheet Metal: Materials, Processes &amp; Applications<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is a shrinker stretcher used for in automotive fabrication?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A shrinker stretcher is used to form curved edges and flanges in sheet metal. It is particularly useful for automotive bodywork such as wheel-opening repair panels, windshield frames, door edges, and other curved components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can a shrinker stretcher make compound curves?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. By selectively shrinking and stretching different sections of sheet metal, a fabricator can develop compound or multi-curved shapes. More complex panels may require additional forming and smoothing tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I shrink or stretch the metal for an inside curve?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>An inside curve is generally created by shrinking the material along the appropriate edge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does stretching do to sheet metal?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Stretching expands the material in a controlled area, allowing an edge or flange to develop an outside curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can a shrinker stretcher replace an English wheel?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Not completely. The two tools perform different functions. A shrinker stretcher is particularly useful for manipulating curved edges and flanges, while an English wheel is commonly used to develop broader, smooth contours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What sheet metal can be used with a shrinker stretcher?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The appropriate material depends on the specific machine, dies, and manufacturer&#8217;s stated capacity. Always check the specifications of the shrinker\/stretcher before forming the material. Woodward Fab offers models intended for applications involving materials such as mild steel and aluminum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I get a smooth curve when using a shrinker stretcher?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Work progressively rather than aggressively. Make controlled adjustments, distribute the forming work across the required area, and repeatedly compare the panel with a template or the vehicle&#8217;s original contour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Takeaway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Fabricating a curved automotive body panel does not have to mean cutting numerous sections and welding them back together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a suitable pattern, correctly prepared sheet metal, and controlled use of a shrinker stretcher, a fabricator can gradually develop curved edges and flanges that follow the required automotive contour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key is understanding where the metal needs to shrink, where it needs to stretch, and how much movement is actually required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For automotive restoration and custom fabrication, the best results usually come from combining the shrinker stretcher with careful measurement, frequent test-fitting, and complementary shaping tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for equipment for automotive sheet metal forming, explore Woodward Fab&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/product-category\/product\/shrinkers-stretchers\/\">Sheet Metal Shrinker Stretcher range<\/a> to compare available configurations and applications.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Creating a curved automotive body panel from a flat sheet of metal can seem difficult, especially when the panel needs to follow a wheel opening, windshield frame, fender contour, or other compound shape. A sheet metal shrinker stretcher makes this process more manageable by allowing a fabricator to control the shape of the metal through localized shrinking and stretching. The basic approach is simple: shrink the metal where you need an inside curve and stretch it where you need an outside curve. By gradually working different sections of the panel, you can turn a flat or partially bent piece of sheet metal into a controlled curved form without relying entirely&hellip; <a class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":34755,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,32,81,29],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34751","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-metal-cutting-tools","category-sheet-metal-fabrication","category-sheet-metal-shearing-tools","category-shrinker-and-stretcher"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels | Woodward Fab<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to fabricate curved automotive body panels using a shrinker stretcher. Discover forming techniques, shrinking vs. stretching, and practical tips.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels | Woodward Fab\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to fabricate curved automotive body panels using a shrinker stretcher. Discover forming techniques, shrinking vs. stretching, and practical tips.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Woodwardfab Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/WoodwardFab\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-08-11T13:41:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-09-04T12:09:40+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Automotive-Body-Panels-With-a-Shrinker-Stretcher.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1536\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Darren O&#039;Brien\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@woodwardfab\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@woodwardfab\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Darren O&#039;Brien\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels | Woodward Fab","description":"Learn how to fabricate curved automotive body panels using a shrinker stretcher. Discover forming techniques, shrinking vs. stretching, and practical tips.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels | Woodward Fab","og_description":"Learn how to fabricate curved automotive body panels using a shrinker stretcher. Discover forming techniques, shrinking vs. stretching, and practical tips.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/","og_site_name":"Woodwardfab Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/WoodwardFab\/","article_published_time":"2026-08-11T13:41:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-09-04T12:09:40+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1536,"height":1024,"url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Automotive-Body-Panels-With-a-Shrinker-Stretcher.webp","type":"image\/webp"}],"author":"Darren O'Brien","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@woodwardfab","twitter_site":"@woodwardfab","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Darren O'Brien","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/"},"author":{"name":"Darren O'Brien","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/302b8819c12c9145bfdc6336074f0399"},"headline":"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels With a Shrinker Stretcher","datePublished":"2026-08-11T13:41:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-09-04T12:09:40+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/"},"wordCount":2386,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Automotive-Body-Panels-With-a-Shrinker-Stretcher.webp","articleSection":["Metal Cutting Tools","Sheet Metal Fabrication","Sheet Metal Shearing Tools","Shrinker and Stretcher"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/","url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/","name":"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels | Woodward Fab","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Automotive-Body-Panels-With-a-Shrinker-Stretcher.webp","datePublished":"2026-08-11T13:41:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-09-04T12:09:40+00:00","description":"Learn how to fabricate curved automotive body panels using a shrinker stretcher. Discover forming techniques, shrinking vs. stretching, and practical tips.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Automotive-Body-Panels-With-a-Shrinker-Stretcher.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Automotive-Body-Panels-With-a-Shrinker-Stretcher.webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"caption":"Automotive Body Panels With a Shrinker Stretcher"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/curved-automotive-body-panels\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"How to Fabricate Curved Automotive Body Panels With a Shrinker Stretcher"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/","name":"Woodward Fab Blog","description":"Manufacturer of Metal Working Machinery","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Woodward Fab","url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/Logo-144.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/Logo-144.png","width":144,"height":144,"caption":"Woodward Fab"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/WoodwardFab\/","https:\/\/x.com\/woodwardfab","https:\/\/instagram.com\/woodward_fab","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/woodwardfab\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/woodwardfab"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/302b8819c12c9145bfdc6336074f0399","name":"Darren O'Brien","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d3ce00b71ccf89f4bd7ce1f38420eb5ae98155ea144cc0bbe306935b2605ec2?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d3ce00b71ccf89f4bd7ce1f38420eb5ae98155ea144cc0bbe306935b2605ec2?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Darren O'Brien"},"description":"Darren O\u2019Brien is the Manager at Woodward Fab, with a deep passion for sheet metal fabrication. He brings valuable expertise in tools, techniques, and industry trends, sharing insights that educate and inspire. Whether you're a seasoned fabricator or just starting out, Darren's knowledge is here to help you sharpen your skills and elevate your craft.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/darren-o-brien-87436a88\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/author\/darren-obrien\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34751","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34751"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34751\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":34752,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34751\/revisions\/34752"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34755"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34751"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34751"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.woodwardfab.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34751"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}