M42club.com - Home of the BMW E30/E36 318i/iS
DISCUSSION => Interior => Topic started by: DuHast on November 14, 2010, 08:09:15 PM
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Hey everyone, I was just wondering if anyone here has re-upholstered the center fabric section of the door cards in an E30 and how it was done. I'm currently making a shift boot, ebrake boot, and wrapping my A pillars with a new fabric but I'd love to do the door cards too and it doesn't look like the center sections come out. Can anyone help me out?
Thanks,
Tim
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The centers are stiched into the vinyl. I am replacing mine and had the whole panel stitched new with vinyl and a new center all stitched together. I then glue the new cover onto the cardboard. You can get an insert and glue it in, as I have seen others do.
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Hmm, could I possibly stitch the new upholstery to the vinyl on a home sewing machine or did you get it done at an upholstery shop? Got any pics? I wonder if I should just try to get some door panels, pull the covers off, get them done, then swap them out w/ the ones in the car now and sell the OEs..
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Upholstery vinyl is pretty thick, I'd guess it'll come down to how much room you have in the sewing machine's shoe. I have some black coupe door cards if you want to mess with them. If you're not near western PA I expect shipping costs would be murder.
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My kits were stitched together by auto upholster, Kevin, from Creative Options. He is on the other e30 forums. All I have to do is glue them on, but it is harder than it seems. I have my profile on the member profiles if you want to take a look at what I have done. You might be able to stitch in new centers, just need to have a good sewing machine. I will try to sell my 4 black/gray cloth covers to anyone when I finish the last panel, passenger door soon for dirt cheap. THey are in good condition and the only one with wear is the driver door from where you elbow rubs when opening the door.