How we build it
Built once, built right.
Here's the thing: not all upholstery work is done the same way. A lower price can look tempting, but sometimes it means the work stops at what you can see and the problems underneath never get fixed. We take the seat apart, check what's going on below the surface, repair what needs attention, pattern it for a proper fit, and sew it with thread and vinyl made to handle real-world use and changing weather. It takes a little more care, but that's what helps the finished product look better, work better, and last for years. Here's what happens from the day you call us to the day you sit back down.
Customer portal
Your project, all in one place
Once you're a Fleet Seat customer, your portal keeps everything in one place. You can review estimates and invoices, follow your project's progress, send and receive updates, manage your contact information, and submit a new request whenever the next project comes along. No digging through old emails or wondering where things stand—and the portal doesn't replace real conversations with our team. It just makes the details easier to find.
The process
How a job actually goes
We look at it in person
Photos help, but we measure the real thing. We look at the foam, the frame, the brackets, and the substrate—the parts nobody sees—so we can give you the clearest, most accurate quote possible. If we find something unexpected once the work begins, we'll show you what we found and talk through any changes before moving forward.
Choose the right materials
Before we order anything, we help you choose materials and colors that fit the design, how the project will be used, and the look you want. If the original material or color has been discontinued, we're usually able to find a close match. And if an exact match isn't possible, we'll walk you through options that complement what's already there or give the project a fresh direction.
Pattern before we cut
We don't rely on old material to tell us how the finished upholstery or canvas should fit. Fabric and vinyl stretch, shrink, and warp over time, especially after years of use and changing weather. Instead, we build a fresh pattern directly from the bones of the project. From there, we can recreate the original design or give it a fresh, updated look—all while making sure the final result fits cleanly and looks like it was made for that exact project.
Fix what's underneath
Crumbling foam gets replaced, cracked substrates get repaired or rebuilt, and rusted brackets or broken frames get the attention they need. What's underneath matters just as much as what you see because even the best upholstery or canvas work won't look right or last the way it should if the foundation isn't solid.
Cut and sew in the shop
Once the pattern is ready, we cut each piece from materials chosen and ordered specifically for your project. From there, we use marine- or commercial-grade thread, along with the tools and techniques that best match the design and how the finished piece will be used. Every detail—from the type of seam to the finishing stitches—is chosen for the project, not forced into a one-size-fits-all process.
Fit, tension and finish
Once everything is built, we take the time to fit it properly. The upholstery or canvas is aligned, tensioned, and secured using the fasteners and techniques that make sense for the project. Then we check the seams, edges, hardware, and overall finish so everything sits cleanly, functions the way it should, and looks finished from every angle.
Finished, paid, and ready to go
When your project is finished, we give it a final inspection and take care of any needed adjustments before it leaves. The remaining balance is due at completion, and we're happy to send photos so you can see the finished work—especially if you're coming from out of town. Your pickup or return date is scheduled in advance, so you'll know when your project will be ready and when payment is expected. Because our shop has limited storage, completed items need to be picked up on the scheduled date so we can keep every customer's project moving.
What goes in
Materials we actually trust
We choose materials for your project—not just whatever happens to be on the shelf. We look at where it will be used, how much wear it will get, and the look you want. From the upholstery or canvas you see to the foam, thread, fasteners, and everything underneath, every piece is chosen to help your project look good, work well, and last.
Built to last
Why it lasts
The bones get fixed first
Even the best-quality materials can't do their job right over a broken frame, worn-out foam, weak substrate, or failing hardware. We fix the bones first, then make it look its best.
Secured the right way
Every project is secured using the fasteners, materials, and methods that fit the job. We take the time to anchor everything properly so it sits cleanly, holds its shape, and stands up to everyday use.
One team, start to finish
Your project stays with our team from the first look to the final fit. We keep the details, decisions, and quality checks connected all the way through, so nothing gets lost between steps.
Working with us
What to expect
A clear estimate, in writing
We provide a clear, detailed estimate showing the materials selected for your project, so you know what you're getting for your investment. It's simply how we believe business should be done with honesty and transparency.
A deposit, then a spot on the schedule
Your deposit lets us order materials ahead of time and reserve your spot on the schedule. When your appointment date arrives, we're ready to get to work and keep your project on schedule. If anything changes, we'll keep you updated through your customer portal—no guessing.
Updates without the guesswork
Check your project status, messages, invoices, and payment details anytime through your private customer portal. We'll include before-and-after photos and reach out if anything needs your attention.
We stand behind our work
If a seam or fastener fails because of our workmanship during the warranty period, let us know. We'll take a look and make it right. We're not just here for one job—we want to be the shop you trust for the next one, too.
Questions
Straight answers
Every project is different. A small repair may take a day, while a full custom interior can take several months. Your estimate will include the expected schedule so you can plan ahead. We order materials before your appointment whenever possible, so we're ready to work when your project arrives.