DIY suede gear cover

[RA28]

I dragged out the sewing machine today and had a go at covering the gear surround.

Whover designed this complex array of curves obviously did not want it covering.

I used 4 layers of masking tape to make a template.

This was cut so that I could lay it out flat.

I then stuck the cut pieces onto the suede and cut the pattern.

Using a needle and thread to loosely tack the pieces together, it started to take shape.

I stitched all the seams on the machine and trimmed the seams with shears to leave about 5mm.

Scraping off and sanding the Toyota rubber coating was not enjoyable.

Once clean, I used TrimFix high temp spray glue to apply 3mm scrim foam to the plastic.

The next part was tricky, as I wanted white contrast stitching.

Not perfect, but came ot okay.

I glued it on in sections using Trimfix and checking alignment.

I borrowed the wifes washing line pegs to keep it secure on the edges.

Here is the results of my efforts.

The last picture shows the armrest and console that I also covered.

This is real suede, not Alcantara.

[Josh]

Good effort, but I'd rather a professional job.

[SupraD06]

Think it may have looked better if the stiching was darker, but thats only my opinion. If your happy with it then thats all that matters.

[RA28]

Thanks for the feedback

The white stitching does really highlight my lack of sewing skills.

I will probably blacken it but will see how it looks in the car first.

The dash panels are all suffering from scratched rubber syndrome.

I would love a pro job, but on my shoestring budget DIY is the only option.

The remaining dash panels will require some work.

Maybe a respray in matt charcoal, or possibly carbon fabric wrap?

[Josh]

Thanks for the feedback

The white stitching does really highlight my lack of sewing skills.

I will probably blacken it but will see how it looks in the car first.

The dash panels are all suffering from scratched rubber syndrome.

I would love a pro job, but on my shoestring budget DIY is the only option.

The remaining dash panels will require some work.

Maybe a respray in matt charcoal, or possibly carbon fabric wrap?

 

What about getting them flocked? To me, it looks quite shiny and plasticky in person, but that might just be me.

 

 

NOT MINE;

 

 

Edited December 30, 2011 by Josh (see edit history)

[Clancy2k]

I like it tbh.. looks very warm and homely lol

[RA28]

I like the flocking on the top section, but the entire dash looks somewhat over-flocked. I think the dial panels need something that contrasts. The Supra dash is a real headache. The wrap around cockpit is great, but it is such a big slab of black rubberiness.