Researching for a first time build project on a Sprinter or ProMaster. I am interested in doing upholstered wall and ceiling panels with blind connections and a factory look. Can anyone point me in the right direction for educational and how to resources? I searched the forum and wasn't able to find anything.
Researching for a first time build project on a Sprinter or ProMaster. I am interested in doing upholstered wall and ceiling panels with blind connections and a factory look. Can anyone point me in the right direction for educational and how to resources? I searched the forum and wasn't able to find anything.
Thanks for the assist!
Matt
In this arena, I think there is a tradeoff between form and function. If you want a surface that is easily cleanable you need to choose a material that is amenable to that. I notice that Coachmen has adopted something called Soft Touch that seems similar to what is commonly used for seat covers. I looked at it and while it doesn't qualify as the ne plus ultra for interiors, the fact that it's easily cleanable with a sponge would make a slob like me gravitate toward that or a similar material.
In this arena, I think there is a tradeoff between form and function. If you want a surface that is easily cleanable you need to choose a material that is amenable to that. I notice that Coachmen has adopted something called Soft Touch that seems similar to what is commonly used for seat covers. I looked at it and while it doesn't qualify as the ne plus ultra for interiors, the fact that it's easily cleanable with a sponge would make a slob like me gravitate toward that or a similar material.
Yeah, I like the idea of a cleanable upholstered wall/ceiling panel. Hoping for some good information on fabrication.
Upholstered is easy. Blind connections are a whole nuther ballgame. I've seen a lot of self-builds, but I've never seen blind connections on an upholstered panel, or on any panel, for that matter.
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2014 Promaster 136" Self-Build has passed 250,000 miles
I have a lot of experience with those magnets. There are many in my van and I keep stacks of several sizes handy for when an idea strikes. I would not use them for paneling, particularly covered paneling.
First, the panel would be offset by the thickness of the magnet. Though this could theoretically be compensated by the tucked-under covering, that tucked-under part would vary in thickness, making the task more complex and expensive (good magnets are not cheap).
Second, I wouldn't trust the magnets in an an accident.
Third, it would not be safe to attach anything to the panel.
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2014 Promaster 136" Self-Build has passed 250,000 miles
When I did the ceiling in my previous van, I used that white paneling you find in RVs and Home Depot (and others) and I fastened them to strips of 1/2" plywood screwed to the steel frame:
I then used these plastic caps so I couldn't see the hardware but still access them if needed:
It's not exactly a blind connection but close.
I also used a fair amount of Loctite PL adhesive. Of course, I had to be sure I would not comeback on my decision.
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Currently building Gandalf (1998 Roadtrek Versatile 200 2WD)
Instagram account: @the_bohemivan
I know that this isn't what you're looking for but I thought I'd post it anyways.
In our PW we had a problem in the upper storage cabinets where they had glued a seam between the headliner and the side panel material. Over 20+ years the glue had come apart and turned into a sticky mess. We tried a variety of glues and tapes but nothing worked and there wasn't anything under the seam to fasten to: just air. An upholstery supplier said someone used a fastener for their car headliner that's made for fastening arm protectors to chairs. Has a small plastic head and a corkscrew pin body. Worked like a charm. Just "screw" the fabric together.
Upholstered Wall/Ceiling Panels - How to?
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