Perforation, quilting and embroidery can give an automotive interior a distinctive surface. The same decorative vocabulary may interest designers of furniture or other premium interiors. These images show material and seat-surface samples. Any use in a finished vehicle, yacht or aircraft requires the applicable material specifications, performance tests and approvals for that project.

Perforating leather and synthetic upholstery

Embroidered leather seat sample for an automotive interior.

Small holes can form geometric patterns, decorative motifs or a repeated texture on leather and suitable synthetic materials. The Italian article lists example diameters of 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 mm, as well as round, square, diamond and custom shapes. These are historical examples, not a promise that every size or shape is appropriate for every material. Hole size, spacing, strength and finish should be tested on the actual substrate.

Cutting and perforation can be combined with embroidery. The resulting edge quality depends on the material, tool and settings; it should be judged on a sample rather than assumed to be free of marking or heat effects in all cases.

Perforated and stitched leather sample.

Embroidery, quilting and stitched details

Raised stitching, thicker decorative threads and padded quilting can be used to define a pattern on leather, synthetic leather or textile upholstery. A design may mix perforations and an embroidered logo, border or repeated motif. Thread, backing and padding are chosen in relation to the final surface and its intended use.

Leather seat-surface examples with perforation and embroidery.

Examples and working dimensions

The original article describes working areas wider than one metre using multi-head equipment. The feasible size for a current project depends on its material, machine set-up and pattern repeat. A sample can establish scale, stitch quality and perforation appearance before production.

Embroidered and perforated automotive seat-surface examples.

For a broader view of the techniques, see our guide to perforation, stitching and embroidery. If you have an upholstery concept, material specification or sample to develop, contact Marini Ricami 1986.