Expert: Mark H. Miller - 11/18/2010

Question
I took apart very old D.R. chair seats (they drop in and are secured by screws) and found on top of zig zag springs, a layer of rough burlap, then horsehair, then cotton batting. The springs seem quite sturdy and could probably last another 100 years. How do I replace the materials on top of the springs? Thank you!

Answer
Hello Suzanne,

You are correct, the zig zag springs could last another 100 years.

It may not be necessary to replace the padding material either,  usually upholsterers add another layer of cotton batting and then upholster over that.  If however you need to replace the batting materials anyway then replace that with a 1 inch thick layer of extra firm foam - available from upholstery suppliers and over the foam place one or two layers of cotton batting and then the upholstery fabric.

I hope this helps.

Mark Miller.