Removing Fold Lines After Long-Term Storage
Most of the time, any fold lines in our stretch suede will relax naturally. Once the material is unpacked and stretched when fitted.
Recently, Shaun purchased black stretch suede for a VW T5 headlining. Unfortunately, he was away when the material arrived. He therefore didn't open the package for around three weeks.
The suede had been left folded for longer than normal. The fold lines were more noticeable when it was finally unpacked.
What Shaun Found
After unpacking the material, Shaun noticed the fold lines were still visible.
As a first step, he draped the suede over the headlining board to help the material relax naturally.
This helped, but some of the fold lines were still visible.
Another good option is to roll the material onto a cardboard tube and leave it for a period of time.
How We Solved It
As he did not have a Cardboard tube. We suggested carefully ironing the reverse side of the suede using a low heat setting.
This is not something that is normally required. In this case the material had been left folded for an unusually long period of time.
After applying a low heat iron to the reverse side, the remaining fold lines disappeared.
Shaun later sent us an update:
"Just thought I'd give you an update on this. Low heat iron worked a treat and lining all done and looks ace. Cheers"
Important Notes
In most cases, fold lines are not a problem and will ease out naturally during fitting.
If you do decide to use an iron:
- Use a low heat setting
- Iron the reverse side only
- Test a small area first
- Do not use excessive heat
This should only be needed where the material has been left folded for an extended period.
The Finished Result
Once fitted, the headlining came out really well. As you can see it looks clean and professional inside the VW T5.
Shaun also left the following feedback:
"I purchased this material to redo a headlining in a VW T5. I had a few questions about getting creases out of the material. Auto Suede were really helpful and directed me to lots of tips in fitting. I'm really pleased with the end result and the material looks far more expensive than it was. Recommended."
Summary
This was an unusual situation.
It shows that if stubborn fold lines do remain, there are practical ways to deal with them.
As always, if you're unsure about anything before fitting, get in touch and we'll do our best to help.