Install Fabric Slings: Revamp Your Patio Furniture

Installing fabric slings on patio furniture is a complex process that requires careful attention to detail. While the specific steps may vary depending on the brand, model, and type of chair, there are some general guidelines to follow. First, it is important to gather the necessary tools, such as a screwdriver, wrench, knife, or scissors. The process typically involves removing the old sling fabric by taking off the end caps, cutting the fabric, and detaching any bolts or rails. Then, the new sling fabric can be installed by inserting it into the rails, tightening bolts, and making any necessary adjustments to ensure the fabric is taut and free of wrinkles. It is recommended to refer to brand-specific instructions or seek professional help for a safe and proper installation.

Removing the end caps

To remove the end caps, start by sliding the screwdriver into the small crack in the cap and gently prying it out. This will allow you to remove the end cap without causing damage. Repeat this process for all four end caps. Once removed, set the chair on its side to access the hardware.

The next step is to remove one of the rails to loosen the fabric and slide it out of the track. This can be done using a hand hex key or a socket wrench. A drill can also be used if you have the proper hex head attachment. Loosen and remove the bolts holding the rail in place. With the rail removed, you can now pull out the old fabric sling.

It is recommended to have assistance during this process, as it can be challenging to manage the chair and the tools simultaneously. With the end caps and old fabric removed, you can now prepare to install the new fabric sling. Ensure you have the correct size and type of fabric for your specific patio chair model.

After removing the end caps, it is important to keep them safe, as you will need to reinstall them once the new fabric sling is in place. The end caps help secure the fabric and enhance the overall appearance of the chair. They also protect the edges of the fabric from wear and tear.

Cutting the old slings

Before you start cutting the old slings, make sure you have the right tools. You'll need a utility knife or heavy-duty scissors, and possibly pliers.

Now, you're ready to cut the old slings. Using your utility knife or scissors, carefully cut the old sling down the middle. Be very careful not to cut yourself or any surrounding fabric. If your chair has a bar in the back, it will come out at this point. Once the sling is cut, you can slide the two old pieces out of the rails. If they're stuck, use pliers to gently pull them out.

If you don't want to cut the old slings, there is another option. Instead of slicing the sling, you can unbolt both sling rails and remove the fabric without destroying it. However, this method may be more difficult, as the old sling fabric is likely dry and brittle, making it hard to remove without damage.

Once the old slings are removed, you'll need to insert the new sling fabric. Make sure you have the correct size and type of fabric for your chair. It's important to note that the new sling fabric will seem too small, but that's normal. The new fabric has a lot of stretch to it, so it will fit properly once installed.

Inserting the splines

Now that you've removed the old sling, it's time to insert the new sling spline or rod into the new fabric. This will help secure the fabric into the sling rails. First, locate the sling pockets on both sides of the new fabric. Slide the plastic splines into these pockets, making sure to leave an extra inch or two on all ends. The sling spline will be longer than necessary, so don't worry about trimming it just yet. If you're having trouble inserting the spline, try sharpening the end with a pencil sharpener first.

Once the splines are in place, you can move on to inserting the new fabric and spline into the sling rails. But before you do that, make sure the rails are in the same position as they were before you removed them. This will ensure proper alignment during the reinstallation process.

Now, carefully slide the fabric through the sling rails, being mindful to keep the tag at the top of the chair. This tag differentiates the top from the bottom of the sling, so it's important to get it right. Take your time with this step, as you want to ensure a smooth and wrinkle-free installation.

With the fabric in place, you can start bolting the sling rails back onto the chair frame. Line up the holes and finger-tighten the bolts, but don't tighten them all the way just yet. Work your way around the chair, tightening each bolt a little bit at a time. This will help ensure that the bolts tighten into the sling rails evenly.

Removing bolts

To remove bolts from patio furniture when installing a fabric sling, you will need a few tools. Gather an impact drill, a flat-head screwdriver, and a wrench or a hex key. If you don't have a drill, you can use a hand hex key or a socket wrench. You may also need a clamp/spreader tool.

First, you will need to remove the end caps from the four corners of the patio chair. Gently slide a flat-head screwdriver into the crack of the end cap and pry it out slowly to avoid breaking the caps. Once you have removed all four caps, turn the chair on its side to access the hardware.

Next, use your hex key or wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the rails to the chair frame. Depending on the chair, you will typically see two bolts that need to be removed. Be careful not to force the bolts out as you risk breaking them or stripping the threaded inserts, which will require additional repairs.

If the bolts are difficult to remove due to rust or corrosion, spray them with a penetrating oil such as Liquid Wrench or NAPA 6300. Allow the oil to soak for at least an hour before attempting to remove the bolts again. Remember to save the bolts and any other hardware for reinstallation.

After removing the bolts, you can proceed to install the new fabric sling by following the manufacturer's instructions or a tutorial for patio chair sling replacement.

Installing the new sling

Now that you've removed the old sling, it's time to install the new one. Take your replacement sling and line it up, making sure the top of the sling is at the top of the rail. You want to hold it up the right way and have the other rail mocked in position.

Now, slide the new sling into the loose rail. You may want to give it a little stretch to smooth out any wrinkles in the centre section. Then, slide the new sling into the other rail. This can be a little tricky, so take your time and pull it down at the same time.

Pull the fabric down to the edge of the frame, keeping it up at the top. You may need to sit back and forth to ensure both edges of the fabric are at the end of the rail. Give it a good stretch to smooth out any remaining wrinkles.

Now, tighten down the rail. This may not be necessary, but it can help to use a clamp or spreading tool to hold the fabric in place while you tighten the bolt. Put the first bolt in and then the second.

If your chair has spreader bars, you'll need to reinsert them. Flip the chair upside down and bend the spreader bar over your knee to fit it into place. If you can't bend the spreader bar, you'll need a spreader tool to stretch the sling rails apart.

Finally, cut off any excess fabric and reinstall the end caps. Tap the end caps gently into place with a hammer.

Frequently asked questions