Automotive trimmers are qualified tradesmen who are responsible for upholstering motor vehicle seats, lining their roofs, floors and door panels and also installing windows, windscreens, backrest boosters, trimmings and leather coverings in the interiors of motor vehicles.
Automotive trimmers use tools and equipment such as scissors, needles, tongs, hammers, screwdrivers, and special sewing machines. They first remove the door handles and then detach the upholstery and trimmings from the door panels, floor, roof and seats. Trimmers need to choose the right type of material for every part of the vehicle. Thereafter, the new material needed is marked and cut according to patterns and sketches.
After the upholstery and lining have been completed finally, they replace all hinges, handles, and other trimmings and perform any finishing touches that may be necessary to the interior of the vehicle. Materials are waterproofed if necessary. Automotive trimmers are also responsible for checking that the seats of the vehicle are fitted in the correct position. Some trimmers specialise in working on the interior of vintage cars.
Because trimmers work mostly with new materials, the workshop is usually relatively clean and pleasant. Various machines and tools, such as various types of cringes (leather, synthetic leather and vinyl) and special sewing machines, are available and workshops are well lit and ventilated.
There is not much demand for trimmers in large motor factories today as it is done mostlty by machine, but panel-beating firms and the motor manufacturing industry have vacancies occasionally.