How to Custom Auto Upholstery
If you can sew, you can probably re-upholster your automobile.
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Things You'll Need
- Wrench/pliers/socket set
- sewing machine
- scissors
- heavy-duty thread
- upholstery material of your choice
- piping (optional)
- Seam ripper
- Flathead screwdriver
Instructions
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1
Remove the seats. There are usually 4 bolts on each corner of the base of the seat holding it directly to the frame. You may need to remove a plastic bolt cover with a flathead screwdriver.
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2
Disassemble the seats. Locate and remove the bolts attaching the backrest to the base of the seat. This step is optional, but depending on the design of your seat, may be easier to install the new upholstery.
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3
Using a seam ripper, separate the seams of the sides of the seatcushion from the front and back pieces. Do not discard the cloth/leather, as this will become your pattern.
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4
Gather your "pattern" pieces and lay them out on your new upholstery material. Your old upholstery may have stretched out of shape from use, so bear that in mind and make adjustments if needed. Cut your pattern out of the material and stitch together with your sewing machine and heavy duty thread. Be sure to triple stitch the material, as the stitch must be very strong.
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5
Inspect the foam cushions of your seats to make sure they are not torn or stained. If they are, they will need to be replaced. If they are in good condition, just slip the new upholstery over the cushions. The upholstery will need to fit extremely snug over the cushions. If it does not, you will need to adjust your seams.
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6
Re-assemble the seats, and install them into the vehicle.
You should now have attractive new upholstery in your automobile.
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