Creating a car seat from scratch

Reupholstering Classic Car Seats from Scratch: A Fresh Start with Oreham Vehicles

When a classic car seat arrives at Oreham Vehicles stripped of its former life—no foam, no fabric, just the bare bones—it’s both a challenge and a privilege. Reupholstering from scratch is more than a repair job. It’s a full reconstruction of comfort, shape, and spirit, done by hand with experience, precision, and creativity.

Unlike quick recover jobs that rely on existing foam or patterns, we often start with nothing but a steel frame. Every inch of the seat is rebuilt. First, we restore the base structure: springs are repaired or replaced, and fresh webbing is installed to support the cushioning. From there, we sculpt entirely new foam profiles using high-density automotive-grade foam. Each layer is bonded, carved, and contoured by hand to replicate the original shape—or to create something custom that better suits the owner’s vision.

Once the foundation is shaped, we create our own patterns directly on the rebuilt seat. This allows for complete control over the design and ensures a perfect fit, down to the last curve. From classic tuck-and-roll stitching to smooth, modern lines, the design is always intentional and tailored.

Material choice is where the personality of the car—and the client—really comes to life. Whether it’s luxurious leather, period-correct vinyl, or woven fabric with heritage character, we work closely with each customer to achieve the right look and feel. The materials are cut with precision and sewn using industrial machines built for this kind of heavy-duty, detailed work. All seams are reinforced. All panels are aligned. Every stitch is there for a reason.

Finally, the covers are stretched and fitted over the sculpted foam and frame. This stage is critical. Even the best-looking seat covers can fall short without a clean, tensioned fit. We work section by section, steaming and stretching to remove wrinkles, securing with hog rings and hidden fixings to achieve that crisp, factory—or better than factory—finish.

At Oreham Vehicles, we believe that the interior of a classic car deserves just as much love and craftsmanship as the exterior. A freshly trimmed seat should feel like home and look like it belongs—whether you're restoring an icon to showroom standard or creating a custom cruiser with your own style.