Custom interiors

[Ben@SpeedTech]

I have a couple questions if you don't mind. I did an internship in a decent upholstery shop when I was in street rod fab school so I learned enough to do basic stuff at a somewhat competent level but have much to learn.

When I threw my car together to get it on the road a few years back I had good success with custom shaping that super thin cheap junk roll of "carpet" from Walmart or auto parts stores and I was able to get a nice shape and conformity using my wife's basic home use Sears machine. That cheapie "carpet" stuff is junk and my heel wore through fairly quickly. This time around I found you can buy automotive carpet by the yard on ebay and I'm wondering if my wife's machine will plow through that ok?

Can a home machine handle thicker thread like that used on upholstery?

I was also considering using indoor /outdoor carpet from like Home Depot or Lowe's. Some of that I/O carpet is fairly attractive, is usually ultra flimsy/ flexible, and it often has a rubber backing that may provide some insulation factor. I'm wondering if my wife's machine could plow through that, and if so would there be any reason to not use that stuff?



How do I tell what carpet by the yard on ebay Is a good bargain and which is to stay away from?

Thanks for your time and pro insight!