How much leather do I need

[menesesjesse]

All I am planning to replace all my leather pieces in my car with some new leather.  How much leather will I need?  I am in europe now and would like to bring the right amount home.  I will probably have the seats done professionally at a later date but I think I can handle the smaller parts with time and patience on my side.  I am looking to go blue as this is the interior color already.  What tools will I need and where can I get the right glue and foam for the project.  Thanks for the help.
Jesse

[70mb280se]

I would contact GAHH in California and get there input on the Hides you will need.  I just stated on my 280se 111 Cabriolet and I needed 3 hides to do the door panels, dash, kick panels, rear quarter panels and top boot.  But 280se are larger than 113 cars.  Of course you buy the seats, headrests and armrests as kits.  It does not make sense to duplicate them in the field.  Then you need 3M sprayable contact cement with a cheap paint gun.  I don't use the stuff in the can...its ok for carpets but once hot from climate it tends to lose its grip.

Good luck,
Eric
70 280se Cab 111.025
Former 113 owner

[menesesjesse]

Thanks for the info.  I am thinking 2 hides to do the work.  100square feet should cover the inside.  I dont think I will do the door panels since I believe it will require some sewing.  I dont have the machine so I may leave this up to a shop.  I am still wondering about the foam or padding I will need.  Where can I get this stuff?  Is there a brand that  I should use?  Thanks
 

[Peter van Es]

Have you seen Bob Hyatt's Upholstery presentation from the most recent PUB here: http://www.sl113.org/wiki/PUB/Upholstery ?

Check it out, and contact Bob (forum name: zoegrlh). He's willing to give you advice!

Peter

[70mb280se]

As far as foam...start by taking one item apart.  Take pictures of each step and note.  Pay attention to where the factory glued things ...usually only on the back side edges.  Foam is available from any upholstery vendor or super store like Joanne fabric or Hobby Lobby.

Eric

[zoegrlh]

My suggestion is to get the kit.  GAHH has a great kit, pricey but a great product.  Comes with seats cut and sewn, door panels cut and sewn, and behind the door pillar panels, door pockets, soft top boot cover cut.  Then all you will need is 1/2 of hide.  Tell Jack at GAHH I sent you.  Let me know if you need any additional questions answered.
Bob Hyatt