How to Make a Custom Leather Steering Wheel Cover

If you want to add something interesting to your car, or simply want to protect the interior, then you might want to make your own custom leather steering wheel cover. Leather steering wheel covers can cost up to nearly $100 for a good quality one.

However, before you decide that the whole thing is far too costly, and you are not interested in having something that expensive, you should consider making your own version of this luxury item for much less. Not only that, but by making it yourself, you will be able to design it yourself and get exactly what you want.

Step 1 - Measure the Wheel

When you are ready to make your custom leather steering wheel cover, begin by finding out the exact measurements of the wheel. Use a tape measure to work out the dimensions you need, and then deduct an inch from the final total. Along with the length of the wheel, don't forget to include the size of the wheel as well, since you will need to put the leather around the back.

Take a half-inch away from this number. This is because leather is a natural product, and it will flex as you handle and manipulate it.

Step 2 - Cut the Leather

Turn the leather over so the shiny part is facing downwards. Using your tape measure, mark out the dimensions you noted from the steering wheel. This will form a rectangle, but that is exactly what you want for the moment. Take your leather, and use hole punches to cut small holes along the edge of the leather. You will want quite small holes, so a 1/16th size hole should be enough.

Step 3 - Add the Fishing Line

Take your fishing line, and tie a knot in the far end. Thread it through one edge, and pull up to the knot. Ensure the knot is large enough to stop the line going completely through the hole. Take the leather over to the steering wheel, and push a needle through the first hole. Thread the fishing line through the needle, and sew all of the holes together.

Tighten every few holes to make sure the leather is completely secure. Once you have put the line through all of the holes, go back through each hole the other way. At the other end, tie off the fishing line, and cut off any remainder.

Step 4 - Finish

Once the leather is completely sewn onto the steering wheel, you can turn it around by hand until the leather is facing away from the driver. The sewing should be tight enough to hold the leather steering wheel cover in place as you are driving the car, and it will prevent wear and tear on the steering wheel itself.