A method of forming an invisible frangible tear seam in a multi-layered
vehicle trim panel for deployment of an air bag therethrough. The method
involves the use of a jig or mask that is configured in the desired shape
of the tear seam. The tear seam is produced by providing a first
polymeric layer on a trim panel mold surface and then positioning the jig
or mask on the first polymeric layer. Next a second polymeric layer is
applied to the first polymeric layer using a spray process. After the
second polymeric layer has been applied the jig or mask is removed,
leaving a foot-print of the jig or mask which defines the tear seam. The
resulting bi-layered structure is joined to a support panel using an
adhesive foam to form a multi-layered vehicle trim panel.