While the stock, seatbelted, aumotive-style dinette seating make sense if you plan to carry pasengers, more than just the two of us traveling in the RV is not in our plans. So we decided to improve the seating, looking for somethihg better for lounging.
We considered the upgrades that others have done but decided not to go to the “L” shaped kind of design that many have used. We like the stock table since it is sturdy and provides plenty of work and dining space. Instead we opted to simply remove the seats and install a comfortable bench seat.
We left the framework for the original seats in place, building a simple base platform and a slanted back on which we’d place cushions. We used a piano hinge in the base platform to be able to access the electrical gear below if necessary.
After the shock of learning what it would cost to have an upholstery shop make what amount to two simple, rectangular cushions we thought about DIYing it. And, after viewing the video on how to make a “How to Make a Quick & Easy Box Cushion” on the SailRite website we decided the task was well within our capabilities. The most important choice it what foam to choose. SailRite has an amazing amount of information on how to shoose products and how to accomplish DIY projects. We read their recommendations for the type of foam to choose. and chose 5″ medium softness foam for the seat and 3″ soft foam for the back. Both were CushionRite® Premium Foam. Our fabric choice was from the Outdura® line. Otherwise, we followed their recommendations for backing, zippers, thread, etc.
Our $35 Habitat for Humanity ReStore 1930s White 2134 sewing machine find worked great for the project. And, yes, Bill did have to develop some rudimentary sewing machine skills. And we added Velcro patches on the back cushion to keep it in place.
So, how did it turn out?
We’re pleased!