The Upholstery Forum

I have a question about a car seat repair. Only the centre panel needs replacing (tear down the middle). Question what is best way to repair a centre panel and also if I restitch outside panels won't I weaken the stitching line?

Many thanks,

Marcel

Marcel, I have thought about this a lot too! I tend to think that stitching inside the original seam allowance into new fabric would not alter your pattern too much. I can learn from this question and wait for the experts.

Hey Marcel, Welcome to the forum!!

Seat repairs are always tricky for reasons like this. You have to be creative sometimes. Personally what I usually do is sew all the seams back together just a little bit tighter. like 1/16"+. I do this because its really really hard to stay exactly on the original stitch line and it looks bad when you can see the old holes when you open the cover. The cover will be a little bit tighter but you still be able to get it on. You shouldn't have to worry to much about the seam strength this way and if there is a problem... Then that fabric was probably at the end of its life anyways and needs to be replaced as well.

Hope this helps!

Thank you for your quick responses. My problem is compounded by the fact that there is welting (piping) on three sides and as such sewing in for the original stitch line would cause a problem. Maybe my best option would be to make a totally new cover. I have included 2 images; the first of the 'problem' seat, the second of my first attempt at making a new cover which I needed to do for the other seat. Many thanks for all your help, Marcel

Marcel you are rocking man! If you have already made that cover I think you are good to sew it up and install.

In that case I would replace the welt wrapping when you re sew the seams. But Honestly id strongly consider just making a new cover. It wont be that much more work and both seats will match.

Your new cover looks good! nice job!

Thanks that's what I was thinking. Thanks John I have had LOTS of compliments thanks to you. Marcel

Anytime!
Cant wait to see It finished!