How to Make Tire Covers for a Trailer or RV

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The sturdy tires used on boat trailers and RVs need different care than the tires on your car. Since these tires spend a lot of time stationary outdoors, they become susceptible to damage from the sun's harsh UV rays. Protect your tires from the sun with fabric tire covers. Tire covers are easy to make and will make a big difference in the longevity of your tires.

Video Chapters:

Patterning Fabric — 0:18 min.
Sewing Hems — 3:11 min.
Creating Hook-and-Loop Flap — 4:04 min.
Assembling Panels — 12:39 min.
Materials List — 12:13 min.

Materials List:

Sunbrella^® Marine Grade Jockey Red 60" Fabric (#6003-0000)
PremoBond^®Tex 90 (V-92) White UV Bonded Polyester Thread 4 oz. (1,350 yds.) (#123337)
Nylon Hook Black (#100255)
Nylon Hook Loop (#100256)
Sunbrella^® Acrylic Bias Binding Tape Jockey Red (#331100)

Tools List:

Tape Measure 120" (#102986)
Scratch Awl Yellow (#235411)
Sailrite^® Edge Hotknife Package (110V) (#103800)
Sailrite^®1" Swing-Away Binder (#100103)
Sailrite® Standard Fabricator® Sewing Machine Package (110V) (#400500)
Yardstick, Pencil, Scissors

How to Make Tire Covers for a Trailer or RV Video 2 — How to Make Tire Covers for a Trailer or RV - Video 2

The style of wheel cover we make in the video protects the tire from all sides. To keep the covers securely in place, even on a windy day, the covers secure around the axle with a hook-and-loop flap. To protect the very bottom of your tires, place a piece of plywood between the tire and the pavement.

When selecting a fabric to use for your tire covers, look for something with excellent UV resistance to provide maximum protection. We used a marine grade fabric for the best weather protection. Since the cover fits loosely at the bottom, the tire will get good airflow. This means your fabric doesn't necessarily have to be breathable, so you could also use a vinyl fabric.

In this video you will learn how to pattern your fabric, create the hook-and-loop flaps, and assemble your tire covers.

Do you cover the tires on your boat trailer or RV? Have you ever made custom covers? Share your experiences, thoughts and advice with us in the comments!