Mike;
The question that I will have about the crests in your seats is how they
were embossed. If the crests were pressed into the leather I can't think of
a way to do it unless you can find someone who makes fancy belts and wallets
and has the tools. If it is stitched into the leather you could try one of
those shops with the computer controled embroidery machine that does
ballcaps and shirts. Some upholsterers can do this by hand but the ones that
are can be few and far between.
The problem with leather, as opposed to some fabrics such as mohair, is
that unless it has been babied and maintained it will rot. So I think that
your only option will be to use the original crested panels as a pattern and
find a way to make new ones. You could try to save the front seats but from
what you describe it sounds like you would really be trying to make a silk
purse out of a sow's ear. Do your research now and when you are ready to do
the seats you can get the upper back panels from the upholsterer, after he
cuts the fabric out for the seats, have the crests added and give them back
to him so he can sew the cover together.
Best Regards
Arran Foster
1954 Imperial Newport
Needing a Left Side Taillight Bezel and other trim parts.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mike Pittinaro" <mechimike@xxxxxxxxx>
To: <mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Wednesday, January 16, 2002 5:58 AM
Subject: IML: embossed leather
>
> > The seats are an original pattern, and as noted have
> > been re-done but
> > without the embossed crowns on the seat backs.
>
> This saddens me, to know that reupholstering the seats
> causes some loss in the car's original character. My
> '67 has these embossed crowns, and I think it is one
> of the most distinctive things about the interior. My
> rear seat is in excellent shape, so I'm not too
> worried about losing that, but the two front seats are
> worn, ripped in places, and screaming for replacement.
> They are also very sun-dried, as is the top of the
> rear seat backs.
>
> I am loathe to replace them, because it will detract
> from the car's originality. I oil the leather and
> massage it, but it doesn't get any better.
>
> I think i can fix the cracks and tears with some glue,
> replacement leather, and leatherique, but what to do
> about the faded/dried leather on the top of the seat backs?
>
> =====
> --Mike Pittinaro
>
> 'Tis Christmas again
> Have a happy holiday
> Imperially
>
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