How to Install Zig Zag Springs for Upholstery Seat Cushions Zigzag installation tutorial for chair

A quick how to install zig zag springs tutorial for your chair or bench. Shown on two arts and crafts style furniture projects, this seat cushion springing method is easy to learn. You will need at least one special tool...
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[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Don't be afraid to try springing a seat cushion. It's more comfortable than foam alone, and isn't hard to do.

[@KimmoJaskari]

Just have to be careful about those springs, as with any spring... there's a lot of coiled tension in one when it's extended. I've been trying to reattach one that's come loose, from the underside because I don't want to tear the whole sofa apart. The little hook on the spring they put in wasn't up to the task, but it also has cheaper plastic clips in the frame, and no string or anything holding the springs together - cheap crap, inherited it. So one spring worked itself loose. Got my face a little close when I lost concentration when trying to stretch it back and it smacked me in the forehead. Will teach me to pay attention when handling springs...

[@yoyopg123]

Hey, I just wanted you to know that the video you made for the Stickley rocker upholstery, the leather suggestions, and all the follow up advice you gave me, was instrumental in how good mine turned out. I really appreciate you doing all that!

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

That's sweet Paul! Glad your project came out well. Best.

[@petersiwek4265]

I'll be doing some soon! Thanks for your guidance.

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Nice! Good luck with your project.

[@onehans]

The spring bender is genius

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Ha! Thanks. It's not pretty but it works. Thanks

[@AlexCastillo-sv8qk]

I really enjoy these “upholster. . . . er” videos. I’m finally acquiring some of the tools needed to get started and I’d love to know which bolt cutter you would recommend for cutting springs such as these.

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

These are the bolt cutters I'd recommend... amzn.to/3ReCX5I Full-size bolt cutters are overkill, and a pair of 18" bolt cutters will work fine. Best to you.

[@forrestheaney9059]

Great video thanks

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Thanks Forrest! Have a good one.

[@johnsartelle3221]

How far apart should the S Clips be? You said you figured out you needed 13 humps. How do you figure the length of your springs?

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

You want at least 4 springs per seat. Sometimes 5 lays out well, sometimes it's 4. Stretch the spring to the desired length, and mark the clip locations with a pencil. Pre-install the clips, and stretch them in place. Good luck!

[@KimmoJaskari]

Apparently there are spring stretchers you can get to do that attaching thing solo. I saw an upholsterer who had made his own, but later spotted a tool that looked professionally made. This is not exactly my field, so picking up info (trying to fix a loose spring on my couch).

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Yeah I have one of those spring stretchers, but I never use it. It might be perfect for working under a couch for repairs though. Best

[@Pathakji19]

Hey i need little suggestion! What is good quality sofa ? Spring sofa or only playwood ( wooden) sofa ? Which provides good durability and comfort ness ?

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Usually zigzag springs are best. Webbing is ok as well, and plywood a distant 3rd for comfort. Thanks

[@gergemall]

Thx Willie. Sorry if I spelled your name wrong.

[@scoth5135]

Yes, question, im restoring a vintage vw, the back of seat has some broken zig zags, how do you bend the zig zag to a 45° back toward itself and then again? It’s straight and at each end was created a lift if that makes any sense, Hard to bend, heat with torch?

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

I would use a spring end forming tool. They're available from C.S. Osborne.

[@scoth5135]

Wrong type of tool, I need to bend itself back at a 45°. Example three hump’s and bend back to itself.

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

@@scoth5135 can you buy replacement springs already bent? It's very hard to do with hand tools. A factory probably uses a dedicated press to control the spring. Good luck with your search.

[@Fetherko]

Can I build a seat-back the same way?

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

Yes you can. Might want to use weaker springs though. More comfortable that way.

[@TheThoughtfulWoodworker]

I know, I know. But when you have hundreds to make, a bandsaw jig starts to make sense. Best to you.