Replies

1. 
   highfigh | Dec 16, 2004 06:51am | #1

   Webbing typically is front to back and side to side. Mark the frame so the webbing is centered, then start in the middle. There is a tool called a webbing stretcher, made for this because you will have a really hard time getting it tight enough without one. The ends of the webbing are generally doubled or tripled by securing it with a row of 3/4"-1" sterilized upholstery tacks, then folding the webbing over and setting a second row about 1" above the first. Then go to the other end and after it's stretched, tack it down the same way as the first end.

   If you start at the front by tacking the end of the webbing at the top of the frame, folding it up and over the first row of tacks, it will be smoother and look better. You won't have lumps to cover and show through the padding. Staples will not work unless they're longer and heavy enough. You can do either front to back or side to side first, then attach the other by weaving the webbing as you go. Don't just lay the second direction of webbing on top of the first. The webbing needs to be tight, but not to the point that the webbing is damaged.

   If you want to see examples of webbing, go to any antique shop and look at the chairs. If there is an upholstery supply store, you can buy tack hammers, tacks, webbing and stretchers and just about anything else you need for this, just ask them what you need and they may even tell you how to do it. You may be able to take a class at a local vocational school if you think you may do a lot of this kind of thing.

   Above all, be patient. If it's not lined up the way you want, you can redo it. The finish covering is different. You want to get it right the first time, since removing the tacks or staples and resecuring the leather will weaken it if it's done too many times.

   "I cut this piece four times and it's still too short."
2. 
   ASK | Dec 16, 2004 05:10pm | #2

   Gene,

   I build 2 Morris chairs a number of years ago and did a slightly unconventional arrangement for the seat cushions. The base for the cushion was a series of 1/2" thick X 2" wide oak slats running front to back doweled to cleates  placed about 1.2" apart. The leather cushion was separate and can be used on either side. I have never any problem with any part of this arrangement and the chairs are about 8 years old.

   ASK

1. 
   highfigh | Dec 16, 2004 07:31pm | #3

   Kind of like bed slats? Have the slats bent at all or are these chairs used just occasionally?
   "I cut this piece four times and it's still too short."

1. 
   ASK | Dec 16, 2004 10:04pm | #5

   Highfish,

   No the slats haven't bent at all. The chairs are used constantly on weekends since they are at our weekend house. As a matter of fact When my adult children are out for the weekend we all fight for who gets to sit in the chairs.

   I am attaching a picture taken about a year age.

   ASK

   
3. 
   Joey73 | Dec 16, 2004 08:01pm | #4

   Gene,

   The main reason I use webbing is for comfort. It's nice to have a little "give" in the seat and there is a notable difference between a cushion with webbing and one with a plywood backer. Webbing and clamps are available from Rockler and it's easy to install.

    http://www.rockler.com/ecom7/product_details.cfm?&sku=810&filter=webbing

   Build a frame using half laps. Cut a shallow kerf on opposite ends of the frame. Attach the clamps to the webbing. Fasten one end in the kerf, stretch it out and clamp the other end. Very simple.

   Joe