How to Upholster Factory Foam in a Sprinter
Converting a Sprinter van into a camper is an exciting and rewarding project that allows you to create a personalized mobile living space. One aspect of this conversion process is upholstering the factory foam to enhance the aesthetics of your Sprinter van interior. In this blog, we will explore the steps involved in upholstering Sprinter van factory foam, discuss the materials and costs involved, and provide answers to common questions regarding Sprinter van conversions and campervan wall covering ideas.
How to Upholster Factory Foam in a Sprinter:
Here is a step-by-step to upholstering factory foam in the Mercedes Sprinter.
- Start by removing any existing wall coverings and preparing the surface for the new upholstery. Clean the walls thoroughly and repair or add foam to reduce any damages or imperfections.
- Choose a high-quality fabric that suits your style and preferences. Consider durable options of campervan upholstery fabric suppliers like marathon fabric from Campervan HQ, or campervan upholstery fabric that you used for your van walls fabric to finish the van altogether.
- Measure the dimensions of your Sprinter van walls and cut the fabric accordingly, leaving extra material for wrapping around the edges. Be precise and take your time to ensure a professional finish.
- Apply an appropriate adhesive to both the back of the fabric and the foam. Use an adhesive specifically designed for upholstery to ensure a secure bond.
- Start by attaching the fabric to one corner of the foam, ensuring it is aligned properly. Gradually wrap the fabric around the foam, pulling it tightly and smoothing out any wrinkles or creases along the way.
- Use staples or upholstery tacks to secure the fabric on the backside of the foam. Ensure the fabric is taut and smooth, avoiding any excess material or sagging.
- Repeat the above steps for each foam panel you wish to upholster, such as camper cushions or fabric wall panels, until all desired areas are covered.
- Or purchase GoCode Overland’s B Pillar transition trim kit and skip all the steps inside the van. For more information on these B pillar kits or upholstery on them read this blog
How much does upholstery for my van cost?
The cost of upholstering your Sprinter van will vary depending on several factors, including the size of your van, the quality of materials chosen, and whether you opt for a DIY approach or hire a professional. On average, DIY van upholstery can cost between $500 and $1,500, depending on the complexity of the project and the materials selected. Professional van conversion costs for upholstery can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on customization and additional features.
Fabric for van wall panels is offered by many suppliers for DIY install or for a custom build. Fabric wall kits are typically cheaper than wood/aluminum paneling. Follow the instructions above to upholster fabric around curves and challenging spaces on the wall panels as well.
How much does it cost to convert a Sprinter van?
The cost of converting a Sprinter van into a camper can vary widely depending on the level of customization and features desired. A DIY conversion can range from $10,000 to $100,000, while a professional conversion can cost anywhere from $45,000 to far over $150,000.
How much should you pay for a Sprinter van?
The price of a Sprinter van depends on various factors, including age, mileage, condition, and specific model. On average, a used Sprinter van can range from $20,000 to $60,000, while new models can start from around $40,000 and go up to $100,000 or more.
How to install solar panels on a Sprinter van?
Installing solar panels on a Sprinter van involves several steps, including assessing power requirements, selecting appropriate solar panels, mounting them securely on the van roof, installing a charge controller, wiring the panels to a battery bank, and connecting the system to the electrical components of your van.
How long does it take to build a Mercedes Sprinter van?
A basic DIY conversion can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, while more intricate and customized conversions can take six months or longer. The time required to build a Mercedes Sprinter van conversion can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the availability of tools and resources, and your level of experience. We typically aim for around two months for a dull custom build.
Conclusion:
Upholstering the factory foam in your Sprinter van is a crucial step in creating a comfortable and visually appealing living space on wheels. By following the steps outlined in this blog and using high-quality materials, you can transform your Sprinter van into a cozy and stylish camper. Remember to consider your budget and personal preferences when deciding whether to embark on a DIY conversion or hire a professional. With dedication and attention to detail, your Sprinter van can become a dream home on the road.
