5 Easy Steps to Measure Sunvisors for Repholstering

Repurposed sunvisors can bring new life to your vehicle, giving the interior a customized look and a touch of vintage flair. However, determining the necessary measurements for reupholstering sunvisors is crucial to ensure a snug fit and a stylish finish. Measuring the existing visors provides the precise dimensions for cutting the new fabric and padding. Accurate measurements lay the foundation for a successful reupholstery project, guaranteeing a seamless and professional-looking outcome.

Begin the measuring process by removing the sunvisors from the vehicle. Carefully detach them from their mounting points, taking note of any screws or clips that need to be removed. Once removed, lay the sunvisors flat on a work surface. Measure the length of the visor from one end to the other, including any extensions or brackets. Then, measure the width of the visor at its widest point. Use a ruler or measuring tape to obtain accurate measurements. Record these dimensions on a notepad for easy reference during the upholstery process.

In addition to the length and width, it is essential to measure the thickness of the sunvisors. This measurement determines the amount of padding required for a comfortable fit. Place the sunvisor on its side and measure the distance from the top surface to the bottom surface. This measurement represents the overall thickness of the sunvisor. By precisely measuring the length, width, and thickness, you can accurately cut the new fabric and padding, ensuring a snug and secure fit for the reupholstered sunvisors.

Identifying the Type of Sunvisor

To measure for reupholstering sunvisors, the first step is to identify the type of sunvisor you have. There are three main types of sunvisors:

Integral sunvisors: These are attached to the vehicle’s roof and cannot be removed without special tools. They are typically found in older vehicles and are made of vinyl or fabric. To measure the width of an integral sunvisor, measure from the outermost edge of the visor on one side to the outermost edge on the other side. To measure the length, measure from the top of the visor to the bottom.
Removable sunvisors: These can be detached from the vehicle’s roof by hand or with a screwdriver. They are typically found in newer vehicles and are made of a variety of materials, including vinyl, fabric, and leather. To measure the width of a removable sunvisor, measure from the outermost edge of the visor on one side to the outermost edge on the other side. To measure the length, measure from the top of the visor to the bottom, excluding any pivoting or swiveling attachments.
Roll-up sunvisors: These are made of a flexible material, such as fabric or vinyl, and can be rolled up or down to adjust the amount of sun blockage. To measure the length of a roll-up sunvisor, measure from the top of the visor to the bottom when it is fully extended. To measure the width, measure from the outermost edge of the visor on one side to the outermost edge on the other side when it is fully extended.

Gathering Necessary Materials

Before embarking on your sunvisor reupholstery project, it’s essential to gather the following materials to ensure a smooth and successful process:

1. Upholstery Fabric

Choose a durable and aesthetic fabric that will complement your vehicle’s interior. Consider factors such as texture, color, and resistance to wear and tear.

2. Measuring Tape and Fabric Marker

Lay the sunvisor flat on a table or workbench. Using a measuring tape, carefully measure the following dimensions:

Measurements
A: Length of the visor from end to end
B: Width of the visor at its widest point
C: Depth of the visor from front to back

Note down these measurements accurately as they will be used to create the new upholstery pattern.

Mark the measured dimensions on the wrong side of the upholstery fabric using a fabric marker. Ensure that the fabric has enough excess material to wrap around the visor and create seams.

Removing the Old Upholstery

Before you can replace the upholstery on your sunvisors, you’ll need to remove the old fabric.

Step 1: Remove the Sunvisor

Locate the screws or clips that hold the sunvisor in place. Remove these screws or clips, being careful not to lose them. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the sunvisor down and away from the ceiling of your vehicle.

Step 2: Detach the Old Upholstery

Now it’s time to detach the old upholstery from the sunvisor. You can do this by carefully peeling it away from the plastic or cardboard backing.

Step 3: Clean the Sunvisor Backer

Once the old upholstery is removed, take some time to clean the sunvisor backer. Wipe away any dust or dirt with a damp cloth. This will help ensure that the new upholstery adheres properly.

Material	Cleaning Method
Plastic	Wipe with soapy water and then dry thoroughly
Cardboard	Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and dirt

Cleaning and Repairing the Sunvisor Frame

Once you have removed the fabric from the sunvisor frame, it’s important to clean and repair the frame before reupholstering it. This will ensure that the new fabric adheres properly and that the sunvisor functions correctly.

To clean the frame, use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. Wipe down the entire frame, including the hinges and any other moving parts. Once the frame is clean, inspect it for any cracks or damage. If you find any cracks, you can repair them using a suitable adhesive or epoxy.

If the hinges are loose, you can tighten them using a screwdriver or a pair of pliers. Be careful not to overtighten the hinges, as this can damage them.

Once the frame is clean and repaired, you can begin reupholstering it. To do this, you will need:

New fabric
Scissors
Adhesive spray
Upholstery tacks

To reupholster the sunvisor, follow these steps:

1. Cut a piece of fabric that is large enough to cover the sunvisor frame.
2. Apply adhesive spray to the back of the fabric.
3. Position the fabric on the sunvisor frame and smooth it out.
4. Use upholstery tacks to secure the fabric to the frame. Start by driving a tack into each corner of the fabric. Then, work your way around the perimeter of the frame, driving a tack every few inches.
5. Once the fabric is secured, trim any excess fabric around the edges of the frame.
6. Your sunvisor is now reupholstered and ready to be installed back in your car.

Cutting and Fitting the New Upholstery

Once you have carefully removed the old upholstery, it’s time to prepare the new fabric for fitting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cut and fit the new upholstery precisely:

1. Lay Out the New Fabric

Spread out the new upholstery fabric on a clean and flat surface. Align the fabric’s edges with the edges of the sunvisor frame to ensure a snug fit.

2. Trace and Cut the Fabric

Use a pencil or fabric marker to trace around the shape of the sunvisor frame onto the new fabric. Allow for a seam allowance of about 1/2 inch around all edges.

3. Overlap and Trim the Fabric

Overlap the fabric edges by about 1 inch at the corners. Trim any excess fabric that extends beyond the seam allowance.

4. Stitch the Seams

Carefully stitch the seams along the edges of the fabric, using a sewing machine or hand-sewing techniques. Reinforce the corners by stitching multiple times for extra durability.

5. Stretch and Staple the Fabric

Step	Action	Tips
a	Stretch the fabric taut over the sunvisor frame.	Use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the fabric for easier stretching.
b	Use a staple gun to secure the fabric to the frame, starting from the center and working outwards.	Space the staples about 1-2 inches apart for a tight fit.
c	Trim any excess fabric around the edges of the frame.	Use a sharp knife or scissors for a clean finish.

Adhering the Upholstery

Once the new fabric is cut and trimmed, it’s time to adhere it to the sunvisor board. There are several methods to do this, including:

Glue: Apply a thin layer of spray adhesive or rubber cement to both the fabric and the board. Allow the adhesive to dry for a few minutes before pressing the fabric into place.
Staples: Use a staple gun to staple the fabric to the board along the edges. Be sure to space the staples evenly apart and to pull the fabric taut as you staple it.
Velcro: Attach strips of Velcro to the back of the fabric and the board. Press the fabric into place on the board and the Velcro will hold it securely.

Choosing the Right Adhesive

When selecting an adhesive for upholstery, consider the following factors:

Type of fabric: Some adhesives are more suitable for certain types of fabric than others.
Application: Will the adhesive be used indoors or outdoors? In wet or dry conditions?
Bond strength: How strong does the adhesive need to be?
Flexibility: Will the adhesive allow the fabric to stretch and move without cracking?

Adhesive Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Spray Adhesive	Quick and easy to apply, strong bond	Can be messy, fumes
Rubber Cement	Strong bond, flexible	Time-consuming to apply, can gum up
Velcro	Removable, easy to use	Not as strong as other adhesives, can be expensive

Trimming and Finishing the Edges

Once the new fabric is glued in place, it’s time to trim and finish the edges.

Step 1: Trim the Excess Fabric

Use a sharp pair of scissors to carefully trim away any excess fabric around the edges of the sunvisor.

Step 2: Fold the Edges

Fold the edges of the new fabric over the raw edges of the original fabric. Use a crease marker or your fingers to make a sharp crease.

Step 3: Glue Down the Edges

Apply a thin line of fabric glue to the edges of the folded fabric. Press the edges down firmly to seal them in place.

Step 4: Reinforce the Edges

For added durability, sew a topstitch around the edges of the sunvisor using a sewing machine or a strong thread and needle.

Step 5: Check for Fraying

Inspect the edges of the new fabric for any fraying. If any loose threads are present, trim them off with a pair of scissors.

Step 6: Clean Up

Use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess glue or debris from the finished edges of the sunvisor.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Repholstered Sunvisors

Trimming and Finishing the Edges
– Trim excess fabric
– Fold edges over
– Glue down edges
– Reinforce edges with topstitch
– Check for fraying
– Clean up

Your sunvisors are now freshly upholstered and ready to provide you with an enhanced driving experience. Enjoy the new look and feel of your updated sunvisors!

Reinstalling the Sunvisors

Once the sunvisors are upholstered, it’s time to reinstall them. To do this:

1. Locate the Sunvisor Clips

Identify the clips that hold the sunvisor in place on the headliner. They are typically plastic or metal and may be located on the sides or top of the sunvisor.

2. Remove the Sunvisor Clips

Using a trim tool or screwdriver, carefully pry open the clips and remove them from the headliner.

3. Align the Sunvisors

Position the upholstered sunvisors in their correct locations on the headliner, ensuring they are aligned properly.

4. Insert the Sunvisor Clips

Align the clips with the holes in the sunvisor and headliner and push them in until they snap into place.

5. Test the Sunvisors

Open and close the sunvisors to ensure they operate smoothly and stay in place.

6. Reinstall the Vanity Mirrors (if applicable)

If your sunvisors have built-in vanity mirrors, reinstall them by snapping them into place or securing them with screws.

7. Clean and Inspect the Sunvisors

Use a soft cloth to wipe down the sunvisors and inspect them for any loose threads or imperfections.

8. Reinstall the Sunvisor Harnesses (if applicable)

Some sunvisors have harnesses that connect them to the headliner for additional support. To reinstall the harnesses:

Identify the harness mounts on the headliner and sunvisor.
Align the harness with the mounts and insert the bolts or screws.
Tighten the fasteners until the harness is securely attached.
Repeat for the other sunvisor (if applicable).

Remove the Sunvisor

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the sunvisor in place. Gently pull the sunvisor down and away from the headliner.

Check the Mounting Brackets

Inspect the mounting brackets for any damage or loose connections. Tighten any loose screws or replace damaged brackets as necessary.

Examine the Wiring

Check the wiring for any breaks or loose connections. Repair or replace any damaged wiring.

Test the Motor

Connect the sunvisor to a power source and check if the motor is functioning properly. If the motor does not run, it may need to be replaced.

Clean the Contacts

Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the electrical contacts on the sunvisor and the mounting bracket. This will help ensure a good electrical connection.

Check the Fuse

Locate the fuse that powers the sunvisor and check if it is blown. Replace the fuse if necessary.

Reset the Circuit Breaker

Some vehicles have a circuit breaker that protects the sunvisor from electrical overload. If the circuit breaker has tripped, reset it by flipping the switch back to the “on” position.

Check for Obstructions

Make sure there are no obstructions, such as wires or debris, that could be preventing the sunvisor from operating properly.

Replace the Sunvisor

Once the problem has been resolved, reattach the sunvisor to the headliner and tighten the screws. Test the sunvisor to ensure it is functioning properly.

Materials Needed:

Fabric or vinyl
Upholstery adhesive
Scissors
Measuring tape
Pencil or chalk
Needle and thread (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Remove the sunvisor from the vehicle.
Carefully remove the old fabric or vinyl.
Measure the sunvisor and cut the new fabric or vinyl to the same size.
Apply a thin layer of upholstery adhesive to the back of the new fabric or vinyl.
Place the new fabric or vinyl over the sunvisor and smooth it out.
Trim any excess fabric or vinyl around the edges.
If desired, you can use a needle and thread to sew the new fabric or vinyl in place.

Maintaining Repholstered Sunvisors

To keep your repholstered sunvisors looking their best, follow these tips:

Clean them regularly with a mild soap and water solution.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners.
Protect them from direct sunlight, as this can fade the fabric.
If you need to remove a stain, blot it gently with a clean cloth dampened with water.
Avoid using excessive force when cleaning or wiping the sunvisors.

Storing Repholstered Sunvisors:

When not in use, store the sunvisors in a cool, dry place.

Season	Storage Conditions
Winter	Store in a garage or other enclosed space to protect from moisture
Summer	Store in a shaded area to prevent fading

How to Measure To Repholster Sunvisors

Recovering sunvisors requires careful measurements to ensure a precise fit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to measure your sunvisors:

Remove the Sunvisors: Unclip the sunvisors from their mounts and remove them from the vehicle.
Measure the Length: Use a measuring tape to determine the length of the sunvisor, from one end to the other.
Measure the Width: Measure the width of the sunvisor at its widest point.
Measure the Depth: Measure the depth of the sunvisor, from the front edge to the back edge.
Record the Measurements: Note down the measurements you have taken in inches or centimeters.