how do stretch leather nicely over the foam and seat pan?

[GB400 fan]

Hi all, well got some leather and have attached tack strips around the seat base now i just want hints on how to stretch the leather nicely over the pad (dont want to wreck the leather, all hints greatly appreciated

 

[beatnic]

Try sending a pm to AlchemyPGH, ( jim ) he does upholstery for a living.

 

[GB400 fan]

Hi, well i let my fingers do the walking and searched old posts. Found just what i was looking for on page 13? anyway hint is to wet the leather and it then gets more stretchy and when it dries it pulls tight again. anyway leather is on and looks ok but ran into a problem in that the bumstop doesnt sit flush so i need to add some foam to take up the gap. Oh well the leather was free so i'll go scrounge another peice, cheers!

 

[JRK5892]

i heat it... put it in the dryer on low for about 10 min then it is really easy to work with. i like to strech the front and back first then use a blow dryer or heat gun as i stretch the sides, i go from one side to the other and work my way back. works great if you keep the leather warm and heated it is plyable

 

[JRK5892]

ooh ya for plastic and fiberglass pans i use 1/2 staples they seem to get in there the best i have a swingline auto matic stapler she is old but gets the job done!
look at some different fabrics bud i have been a big fan of micro fiber lately