Expert: Eileen Cronk - 1/20/2008

Question
We need to repair the roll top portion of our hoosier.  All the slats are present. Do you have any suggestions as to how to connect them together ie. clothe types etc.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Sharon
Nice to hear from you.
I just use a light weight canvas when I need to replace this cloth.
This is readily available at places like Fabric land, or an upholstery shop will sell you a piece.
All I have ever used for glue is carpenters glue but I have good results.
The first time I attempted this repair, I never had the slats lined up "square".
I now use a carpenters square or a template of one made out of wood.
As this is confession time, I will also admit that I made another boob in this first attempt.
After I fixed the "out of square" problem, had everything ready and placed the "finished master piece" back in the grooves, it would not open as I had glued the slats too close together LOL
So once again I removed all the glue and started again.
I ended up using very tiny nails as spacers between the slats. I originally assumed the slats had to be really snug together but that was a disaster LOL.
You will also need a bit of weight on the assembled piece till the glue dries.
Funny how we forget so many things as the years go by, but this is one thing I never forgot.
These are the only problems you will encounter but I know you will not make these mistakes if you are aware they can happen.
Good Luck and great question.
Regards
Eileen