Upholstery Framing

[Mickmeister]

We are getting ready the start restoring the inside of our Stingray 195 boat. We are taking everything out of the inside and will be creating the framing and then taking it to a marine upholstery shop. My question is, should I use wood or metal to create the framing? Thanks.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Upholstery Framing

Welcome to iboats.

Depends on what type of seats. Most use marine grade plywood that has been sealed up, stainless steel hinges, and aluminum brackets...... the material is usually attached with only stainless steel staples.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Upholstery Framing

If you are rebuilding an old seat replace one piece at a time and it will come out fine. ........ some people here have even done all the work on their own upholstery work.

 

[scrmnegl]

Re: Upholstery Framing

I agree with Bob.

I am currently completely restoring my 1987 Regal 195, this includes brand new upholstery in the entire boat, down to the carpet. I am redoing all the seats out of ply. There is no sense in doing metal. By the time you wear out that ply you probably won't even have that boat anymore. My boat is over 20 years old and the ply was waterlogged and it was still pretty strong. I'm just redoing it because I'm anal like that.

Let me know if I can offer some assistance with tips on how to do stuff. Bob is right on the money with his hardware! (I do this for a living)

Chris

 

[wca_tim]

Re: Upholstery Framing

I bought an entire interior from the manufacturer for probably less than what it would have cost to have mine reupholstered... including bucket seats, and all the backing / framing made from kingstar composite (won't rot - ever). Never, know, might be worth checking to see if there is an option to have the factory do it.

I also have sewn marine upholstery on a regular sewing machine making stripes, etc... without a lot of problems. You would be surprised how well you can do with even a relatively elaborate interior if the old is in good enough shape to use for patterns. The welting, fabric, etc, etc... is available from upholstery supply houses...

 

[fisheasy]

Re: Upholstery Framing

i used a marine grade PVC that came in 4x8 sheets for my bench seat and side boards.