Expert: Mark H. Miller - 3/3/2009

Question
Hi Mr Miller,I am restoring 4 dining chairs and having removed all the jute webbing I have been adviced to use elastic webbing for a more robust finish.Firstly,would tacks or staples be BETTER and what size tacks or staples.Secondly,how much should I stretch the elastic before fixing and thirdly,do the ends of the elastic webbing have to be folded over then tacked/stapled like jute webbing.The webbing I am looking at is 2"wide 30% strech VG450 grade discribed as being SUITABLE for tack or staple fixing.I hope you can help,Thanks from Caroline.

Answer
Hi Mr Miller,I am restoring 4 dining chairs and having removed all the jute webbing I have been adviced to use elastic webbing for a more robust finish.

Hi Caroline,

Elastic webbing is more comfortable but will not last as long as jute webbing.  

Firstly,would tacks or staples be BETTER and what size tacks or staples.

Tacks or staples will hold equally well,  staples are easier to install.  The staples should be 9/16 which is the largest size staples used for upholstery,  if tacks they should be # 8 or 10 carpet tacks.

Secondly,how much should I stretch the elastic before fixing

you should nail one end, using 5 tacks or a row of staples,  clamp the seat to a surface to stabalize it and then stretch with one hand as much as you can,  give it your all,  or have a helper, then nail or staple the other end.  Be sure to clam the seat down so it doesn't get away from you.

and thirdly,do the ends of the elastic webbing have to be folded over then tacked/stapled like jute webbing.

No,  it should not be necessary to fold over the ends when using elastic webbing,  just don't cut too close to the tacks.   If you use tacks they should be staggered one row of 3 and in front of that a fow of two.  

I hope this information helps.

Mark Miller.