Reply to "Has anyone done their own leather installation?"

Corey,

I did my Pantera (first ever retrim) with an old but very good quality Viking domestic sewing machine. I had to modify it in lots of ways to get it to do what I wanted it to. I struggled all the way though it because it did not have a "walking foot". For my second interior (the red and black one) I spent £500 on a used but proper "walking foot" industrial machine made by Phaff. This is the only piece of specialised equipment needed to do a retrim.

An industrial machine like the Phaff will give you good thread tension and a nice big stitch length. If you hold the seam up to the light you should be able to pull it hard and not see any light through it, this is thread tension.
It's essential that you use nylon bonded thread. I always use the thick stuff (20).

I agree with Doug, you can use the original vinyl seats as a pattern. I now make my own patterns but for a first attempt you can carefully dissect the original seat covers by cutting the stitches with a scalpel. This way you can learn how it's sewn together. You must then cut your new pieces 10% smaller than the old stretched pieces you are copying. This way you get a nice tight fit. Be careful not to cut the piping cord because you will probably be able to reuse this if it's plastic. If you find rolled paper, discard it and replace it with plastic.

I suggest you start with the easiest part and work your way though to the hardest part. I started with the arm rests, keep trying until you are happy with the results then move on to the bulk head panel or box at the rear of the console, then door cards, centre console, dash, and finally seats.
When you make the patterns for your single pod dash make sure you make it 1" shorter then the dash. This is just the right amount on tension. I dont join them in the same place as the factory.

I use heat resistant impact adhesive for almost everything because it will stay stuck for the life of the interior if done properly. I use spray adhesive also but only on the door cards and to adhere the foam to the dash top and centre console. I would not consider it for a head lining.

You will probably have to replace the foam in the seats. If it hasn't turned to dust by now it soon will. I do the opposite to Doug when it comes to foam, I use the absolute minimum.
Make sure you put a dab of super glue on every knot you tie off because nylon bonded thread knots undo them selves like magic. I tie off every single stitch, just going backwards and forwards at the end of the run is not acceptable. I use an office stapler to hold my parts together while I sew them. I use ordinary high quality house hold scissors, not made in China!

I would be happy to advise as you progress with your interior.

Johnny