Measuring your sun visors for reupholstery might seem like a niche task, but it’s actually quite straightforward if you know what to look for. The process can transform worn, faded visors into fresh, stylish ones that suit your interior perfectly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to accurately measure your sun visors so your new upholstery fits like a glove!
Step 1: Remove the Sun Visors from the Car
- Detach Carefully: Use a screwdriver to remove any screws or clips holding the sun visor in place. Be careful not to damage the visor or surrounding upholstery.
- Check for Electrical Components: If your visor has built-in lights or mirrors with wiring, take extra care when detaching. You may need to disconnect small electrical connectors if applicable.
Step 2: Trace the Sun Visor Shape
- Lay It Flat: Place the sun visor flat on a large sheet of paper or a piece of cardboard. This helps you capture the shape without inaccuracies caused by uneven surfaces.
- Trace with Precision: Carefully trace around the visor, pressing the paper gently against any curves or bends.
- Be sure to include any areas that have a slight curve or bump to ensure accuracy in your final upholstery cut.
Step 3: Measure Around the Edges
To get the best fit, measure the dimensions in two parts: the exterior and interior dimensions.
Exterior Dimensions
- Length: Measure the full length of the sun visor from one end to the other, including any curved edges.
- Width: Measure the width at the widest part of the visor.
- Thickness: Use a soft tape measure to check the visor’s thickness around its edge, as this will inform how much fabric you need to wrap around the visor for a snug fit.
Interior Dimensions (for Cutouts and Components)
- Mirrors: If your visor has a mirror, measure its length and width separately. Also, measure the distance of the mirror’s edges from the edge of the visor itself.
- Light or Clip Components: Measure any other add-ons or cutouts, such as clips or light cutouts. Document their positions relative to the edges of the visor.
Step 4: Add Seam Allowance
When reupholstering, you’ll need a bit of extra material around the edges to tuck, fold, and secure. Add at least 1 to 1.5 inches all around for seam allowance.
- If your visor is quite thick, add an additional half-inch to account for the material wrapping.
- Double-check the allowance measurements with your chosen fabric to confirm that the edges won’t show.
Step 5: Finalize Your Measurements
Double-check everything before you make any cuts or order material. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Length and Width of Visor (outside edges)
- Thickness (for fabric wrap)
- Mirror or Light Cutouts (dimensions and positions)
- Seam Allowance
Step 6: Choose and Prepare Your Upholstery Material
With your measurements finalized, it’s time to pick a material that suits both your style and functional needs.
Material Selection Tips
- Durability: Choose a fabric that can withstand heat and sunlight exposure. Vinyl, synthetic leather, and certain polyester blends are popular for sun visors due to their durability.
- Color and Texture: Lighter colors tend to reflect more heat, which can be beneficial for hot climates. Textures should be smooth and non-glossy to reduce glare.
- Stretch: Slightly stretchy fabrics make fitting easier, especially around curves and edges.
Preparing the Fabric
- Cut Out the Fabric: Using your paper or cardboard tracing as a guide, cut out the fabric. Add the extra seam allowance along each edge.
- Pre-Iron if Necessary: Some fabrics may need light ironing to smooth out wrinkles. This is especially helpful if you’re using leather or vinyl.
Step 7: Begin Wrapping the Sun Visor
With the fabric ready, you can start the reupholstery process.
Attaching the Fabric
- Apply Adhesive: Use a high-strength adhesive spray designed for automotive upholstery. Spray it evenly on the surface of the sun visor and on the back side of the fabric.
- Wait 1-2 minutes for the adhesive to become tacky, which will help you avoid shifting.
- Align and Press: Place the fabric over the sun visor, aligning it with any cutouts. Press firmly and smooth out any air bubbles as you go.
- Wrap Edges: Fold the edges of the fabric over the sides of the visor and press firmly to ensure a snug fit.
- For a cleaner look, use fabric glue or small stitching to secure the fabric on the underside of the visor, but make sure the stitches are out of sight.
For Visors with Inserts (Mirrors or Lights)
- Cut small slits in the fabric for components like mirrors or clips, using your interior measurements as a guide.
- For areas around the mirror or light fixtures, apply a bit of extra adhesive for security.
Step 8: Allow Adequate Drying Time
Leave your newly reupholstered sun visors in a warm, dry place to allow the adhesive to set. Drying times will vary depending on the adhesive, so check the product’s label, but usually, a few hours should suffice.
- Check for Bubbles: Before re-installing, check the fabric for any bubbles or loose edges, and press them down firmly if needed.
- Trim Excess Fabric: If any excess fabric is visible, carefully trim it away with sharp scissors for a polished finish.
Step 9: Reinstall the Sun Visors
Once fully dried, it’s time to put everything back in place.
- Reconnect Electrical Components (if any): Reattach any lights, mirrors, or other accessories as they were originally positioned.
- Secure Screws and Clips: Attach the visor using the same screws or clips you removed earlier. Make sure everything is tightened securely to avoid any rattling or movement.
Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your New Sun Visor Upholstery
Now that your sun visors look fresh and new, here are a few tips to keep them that way:
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Use gentle cleaners suited for automotive interiors to avoid fading or damaging the fabric.
- Protect from Excessive Heat: Whenever possible, park in shaded areas or use a windshield sun shade to protect your interior from intense sunlight.
- Spot Clean Regularly: Clean off dirt or stains as soon as possible to maintain the fabric’s look and longevity.
Final Checklist
Before hitting the road, make sure your visors are securely in place and check that all electrical components are functioning (if applicable). Now, with your updated visors, your car’s interior should feel fresher, and you’ll have tackled the art of DIY reupholstery!
Reupholstering sun visors is a simple yet effective way to refresh your car’s interior. With the right measurements and a bit of patience, you can achieve a professional look without breaking the bank.