Automotive Upholstery & Interior Restoration

After disassembling and gutting your car, it is easy to feel that you're in way over your head when it comes to the upholstery. This is why so many do-it-yourself restorers outsource the work, at considerable expense, to an experienced upholstery shop. Taking the time to acquire the skills for upholstery restoration may feel like a daunting task, but what if an experienced upholsterer presented every skill you needed to restore upholstery yourself?

Acknowledgments


About the Author



Introduction







Chapter 1: Tools of the Trade



Pres-N-Snap Setter



Hog-Ring Pliers



Steamer



Door-Clip Tool



Window- and Door-Crank Tool



Headliner Tuck Tool



Regulator



Scissors



Staple Lifter



Hammer



Pegboard



Workbench



Supply Sources



Shop Supplies



OEM Materials







Chapter 2: Seat Restoration



Seat Cover Panels



Seat Removal



Disassembly



Coil Springs



Seatback Supports



Zigzag Springs



Trim Panels and Seat Skirts



Seatback Panels



Robe Cords



Patterning







Material Orientation







Panel Inserts



Rear Apron Panel



Welt Cord



Listings



Seat Cover



Seat Cushion



Seat Cover Installation



Outside Backs



Final Assembly



Seat Cover Build Without a Pattern



Pleated Seat Cover Alignment







Chapter 3: Door Panels



Material Choices



Deconstruction



Door Panel Cleat Fabrication



Creating a New Door Panel



Door Panel Assembly



Door Panel Installation



Planning and Layout



Panel Construction



Installation







Chapter 4: Armrests



Armrest Replacement



Console Restoration



Fabrication







Chapter 5: Headliner



Inspection



Create a Headliner



Bow Measurement



Headliner Prep



Windlace



Headliner Installation



Dome Light



Sun Visor



Package Tray







Chapter 6: Carpet



Project Assessment



The Pad



Carpet Measurements



Sewing



Carpet Installation







Chapter 7: Convertible Top



Inspection and Evaluation



Removal and Adjustment



Header Bow Servicing



Frame Servicing



Frame Painting



Pad Installation



Rear Tack Rail



Well Liner



Rear Curtain



Top Fitment



Prior Damage Repair



Hydraulic System Servicing



Tack Rail Reconditioning



Double-Blank Curtain







Source Guide