Expert: Mark H. Miller - 9/14/2009

Question
I have an almost fifty year old maple swivel rocker.  The seat is a cushion supported by a webbing of wide rubber strips.  The strips are held in place by a crimped piece of metal that fits into slits in the wood.  Some of the strips have become stretched, and one has pulled out of the crimped metal piece.  What kind of material is best to replace the strips with, and where can I get it?

Answer
Hi,

You need to buy new webbing strips,  the name of the product is Pirelli Webbing,  that should be available from most online upholstery suppliers since it is a common product that is still available.  Make certain you purchase Pirelli Webbing and not some other rubber webbing since only Pirelli will do.  

You should be able to pry open the old clips and re use them,  if not,  the same site where you purchase Pirelli Webbing should also sell the new clips.  Insert the end of the webbing after cutting it with an ordinary scissor and then crimp the clip shut using a strong vice - pliers will not be strong enough.   

If you are unable to locate Pirelli Webbing from an online site then a good upholstery shop should be willing to order a roll for you - it's a common - albeit rather expensive product.

I hope this helps.

Mark Miller.