Expert: Mark H. Miller - 11/30/2011

Question
QUESTION: I am repairing a Chaise Longue that has pirelli webbing held in place with metal clips clamped on each end of the webbing that are captured at right angles in a narrow 1/2" deep groove.  Two questions: First, how much shorter should I cut the replacement webs to get the correct stretch? (The crosswise webs span 24" and the lengthwise webs span 60".)  Second question:  If I can't find Pirelli webbing will the 2" synthetic strapping advertised on several web sites (e.g. www.foamproducts.net) also work, and what stretch would be appropriate in that case?

ANSWER: Hello Allan.

The method to calculate the amount of stretch is the same regardless if you are using the solid core or the woven Pirelli webbing or any other woven webbing. To calculate the amount of stretch put a clip on one end of the webbing.  Securely and permanently close that clip, slide that clip into the frame and on the opposite side stretch the webbing with your left hand and with your right hand place a mark where the clip should go - cut the webbing at your mark install the other clip and you have your sample - measure the unstretched length and that will give you the length for all those straps.  

If you are left handed stretch the webbing with your right hand - use the weaker hand to stretch the webbing so that you don't over stretch.

I hope this helps.

Mark Miller.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Any thoughts on whether it is worth it to go for the more expensive Pirelli over the synthetic strapping I mentioned?   The old Pirelli webbing went hard over a period of about 15 years; that is why it has to be replaced.  By the way, thanks for the extra comment on using the weaker hand --  I am left handed.

Answer
Hello Allan,

The solid brown Pirelli webbing is the best there is in my opinion and a prime example that you get what you pay for.  15 years is excellent.  I personally use only the solid brown core Pirelli webbing and nothing else.  I don't recommend the woven webbing for use in a clip since they may start to ravel at the ends and pull out of the clip.

Mark.