1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery is more than just a repair; it is an act of preserving automotive history. At Alex Upholstery Shop, we recently had the privilege of restoring a signature bench seat for a 1959 Ford Fairlane, a vehicle that defined the “Late Fifties” aesthetic with its bold lines and futuristic interior styling.
When a client brings us a project of this caliber, we understand that they aren’t just looking for new fabric—they are looking to recapture the feel of the 1950s showroom floor. This project involved a complete teardown and rebuild, using high-quality marine-grade vinyl to ensure the seat lasts another 60 years.
The Significance of the 1959 Ford Fairlane Interior Reupholstery
The 1959 model year was a pivot point for Ford. It was the year the “Galaxie” series was introduced mid-year, often carrying the Fairlane 500 branding. The interiors of these cars were famous for their “Luxury Lounge” interiors. Our goal with this 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery was to honor that original “tuck and roll” aesthetic while upgrading the internal components for modern comfort.
Step-by-Step: The 1959 Ford Fairlane Interior Reupholstery Process
Restoring a classic seat requires a blend of mechanical engineering and artistic tailoring. Here is how we handled this specific 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery project.
1. Stripping and Frame Inspection
Every project begins with a complete strip-down. We remove the decades-old fabric and cotton batting to expose the “skeleton” of the seat.
- Spring Repair: We inspect the zig-zag (S-wire) springs for any breaks.
- Sandblasting: If the frame shows rust, it is cleaned and painted with a rust-inhibitor.
- Structural Integrity: We ensure the tilting mechanism for the split-back seat operates smoothly.
2. Modernizing the Comfort Layer
Original 1950s seats used burlap and cotton, which tend to pack down and become uncomfortable over time. For this 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery, we replaced those materials with modern, high-resiliency foam. This provides the “firm but soft” feel that makes long cruises enjoyable.
3. Patterning and Custom Sewing
The 1959 Fairlane design is iconic for its tri-tone color scheme. To achieve this:
- Red Bolsters: We used a vibrant red vinyl for the outer edges to frame the seat.
- White Transitions: The white vinyl acts as a visual break, highlighting the contours of the seat.
- Black Pleated Inserts: The center sections feature horizontal pleats, a hallmark of 1950s custom car culture.
We utilize heavy-duty Consew industrial sewing machines (External Link) to ensure every stitch is perfectly aligned and capable of withstanding the tension of the upholstery pull.
Why Choose Alex Upholstery Shop for Your 1959 Ford Fairlane Interior Reupholstery?
We pride ourselves on being the premier destination for 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery in the Pennsylvania region. Whether you are in Myerstown, Lebanon, or Philadelphia, our shop offers the specialized tools and decade-spanning experience required for classic car work.
Customization vs. Restoration
Some owners want a 100% factory-correct restoration. Others want a custom “Restomod” look. During this 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery, we balanced both. While the colors and patterns reflect the spirit of 1959, the materials are vastly superior to the original factory plastics, offering better UV resistance and durability.
Expert Tip: When choosing vinyl for your classic car, always ask for “Automotive Grade.” Unlike standard furniture vinyl, automotive grade is treated to withstand the extreme temperature fluctuations found inside a closed car during summer and winter.
Maintaining Your New 1959 Ford Fairlane Interior Reupholstery
Once your 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery is complete, proper maintenance is key to keeping it looking like new.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use a mild soap and water solution for cleaning.
- UV Protection: Use a sunshade or high-quality vinyl protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant (External Link) to prevent the red and white colors from fading.
- Condition the Welting: The silver piping (welting) is often the first place to show wear; keep it clean of dust and grit.
Conclusion
The 1959 Ford Fairlane is a masterpiece of American design. It deserves an interior that matches its exterior beauty. Our team at Alex Upholstery Shop is dedicated to providing the highest quality 1959 Ford Fairlane interior reupholstery available today.
From the first stitch to the final installation, we treat your car like a piece of art. If you are ready to transform your classic’s interior, contact us today for a free estimate.
