Free Pattern and Directions on How to Make (and Install) Your Own Leather Steering Wheel Covers

If your steering wheel is getting that worn or faded look, or even if you just want to add some color or personality to the interior of your car, a custom leather steering wheel cover could easily be your answer. While you can purchase them in many colors you might be looking at as much as $40-$50 for a quality leather cover. Why, when you can make your own for a fraction of that? These also make AWESOME presents for friends, co-workers, and family!

You will need a strap of leather, braided fishing line, darning needle, cloth measuring tape, and a 1/16 hole punch (optional).

  1. Measure length of steering wheel you want to cover. Normally you cover just the part above or below (or both) of the center area. Subtract an inch from the measurement as leather will tend to stretch as you work with it.
  2. Measure the diameter of the steering wheel. Measure in several locations and take the smallest measurement and subtract ½ an inch.
  3. On wrong side of leather, use a ruler to measure out a rectangle to the dimensions you need and cut it out. The thicker the leather you use the less likely hood of it curling up on you later or ripping during installation.
  4. You can prepunch your needle holes with a 1/8 or 1/16th hole punch. These can be found in craft departments with the scrapbooking items. You can also purchase at leather stores. Punch along both sides about every ¼ of an inch. I do not measure and perfectly align my holes as it really doesn’t matter in the long run.
  5. Cut off a long piece of braided fishing line and tie a knot in one end. Sew though one edge and secure well.
  6. Fold leather around area you wish to cover with open end facing toward you and run needle back and forth from hole to hole. Be sure to pull line snuggle every 3-4 holes. When line starts getting short, tie off and start a fresh one.
  7. When completed, twist leather around until opening appears in back or underneath steering wheel.
  8. This also makes a great gift! Print out simple instructions. Cut and prepunch leather. Then wrap leather around instructions. Tie fishing line around center in bow and tuck in needle.

Tips

  • Don’t forget you can use recycled leather to keep your costs down.
  • Shiny or finished leather will show less wear.