re trimming seats

[rubberdub]

just thinking of re trimming beetle seats has anyone done it and is it hard to do and do you need any special kit

[axenige]

It depends on if your thinking of doing the whole job from scratch or buying a trim kit and then fitting it.

[rubberdub]

was going to have a go from scratch but wouldn't know where to start. was looking at kits and might be best option and cheaper

[axenige]

From scratch you'll need:

Upholstery and machining skills, if you've never used a sewing machine before, I would not try and make a set of seat covers as your first project.

a Good sewing machine, preferably an industrial work foot, especially if your machining ether vinyl or leather.

Fabric, piping cord, foam or other padding, heavy weight Machine thread, plus good set of sharp tailors scissors and a set of patterns to work from, you can use you old seat covers as a guide however they need to be very carefully un-picked.

Using a kit:

tools, possibly a set of Hog ring pliers plus rings (look under your sets to see if they have little copper rings hold the vinyl on the frame)

Silicon spray.

Or some spray adhesive and an inter-liner layer of Dacron between the original padding and the new cover, ether will ease the fitting of the new trim work. Using the Dacron also helps to hide any small in perfections in the seats.

[rubberdub]

thanks for your reply doctor.. kit is going to be where would best vw shop to get kit from?

[vwdude]

Try Spirit of the 50s check out their web site.