How to Make a Cover for a Folding Boat Seat

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If you’re a boat owner who loves to fish, you know how important it is to keep your equipment in great shape — and that includes your pedestal folding seats. These seats are exposed to the sun, wind, rain and salt, which can quickly wear down even the most durable upholstery. The good news? You can easily protect your boat seats by sewing your own custom covers, and we’re here to walk you through it!
Video Chapters:
  • Cutting Fabric to Size — 0:21 min.
  • Sewing the First Side onto the Top Plate — 4:00 min.
  • Sewing the Second Side onto the Top Plate — 7:43 min.
  • Creating a Hem with Shock Cord — 9:53 min.
  • Tensioning the Shock Cord — 13:05 min.
  • Installing the Cover on the Fishing Boat Seat — 17:26 min.
Materials List:
  • SureRite® Black 60" Fabric #125604
  • PremoBond® Tex 90 (V-92) Black UV Bonded Polyester Thread 4 oz. #123338 
  • Shock Bungee Cord Black 1/8" #104327
  • Sailrite® Woven Sew In Tags (2 pack) #121627
Tools List:
  • Sailrite® Clear Acrylic Ruler 6" x 24" #102400
  • Kai Stainless Steel Bent Handle 9" Scissors #125661
  • Sailrite® Ultrafeed® LSZ Walking Foot Sewing Machine (110V) #311602
  • Sailrite® Ultrafeed® Industrial Sewing Table #120934
  • Deluxe 5-1/2" Magnetic Sewing Guide #103597
  • Basic Thread Snips #123222

In our step-by-step tutorial video, we’ll show you how to create snug-fitting covers that slip right over your folding pedestal seats. These covers are designed for convenience — easy to put on and just as easy to remove. Whether you leave your boat at the dock or trailer it home, these covers will help shield your seats from UV damage and harsh weather.

The key to the design is a shock cord loop sewn into the bottom edge of the cover. This clever detail ensures a secure fit that won’t blow away in high winds or come loose during a rainstorm. Plus, the stretch of the shock cord makes installation quick and effortless — no ties, snaps or complicated closures needed.

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Even if you’re new to sewing, don’t worry — this is a fantastic beginner project! It’s simple, forgiving and incredibly satisfying. You’ll gain confidence using your sewing machine, learn some basic techniques, and enjoy the added bonus of protecting your gear and saving money.

So why wait? Grab your materials, fire up your sewing machine and let’s get stitching. Your boat seats will thank you. Let’s make something great together!

And since you’re working on boat projects … do your pedestal seats need a little TLC? We have a companion tutorial on how to upholster your boat’s folding seats. Give your boat a full fabric refit with new upholstery and seat covers. 

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