How to Recover a Pool Table Directions

Over time, pool tables become worn, especially if they are frequently used. Pool table felt can also be damaged by sunlight streaming through windows or skylights. Many pool table owners put off recovering their tables because of the expense--a professional can easily charge $800 or more to re-felt a table. Fortunately, owners with basic carpentry skills can recover their tables for a fraction of the cost over the span of a weekend.

Instructions

1

Remove the bolts holding the rail and cushions to the base of the pool table. These bolts are located under the table along the edges. This can be most easily accomplished with a socket wrench. Number the cushions and rails with a pencil so that you will put them back in the correct positions.

2

Pry the staples holding the old felt on the cushions. Keep a waste can nearby so the staples dont end up all over the floor. Remove the metal rail holding the felt securely on the cushions.

3

Measure a piece of felt 12 inches longer and 12 inches wider than the surface of the pool table. Lay the felt on the pool table to make sure the measurements are correct. Make a small cut 6 inches from one short edge, and another cut 12 inches from the short edge. Repeat this process along the long edge. Tear the felt at the 6- and 12-inch marks. The weave of the felt allows you to tear it without the material unraveling. The torn pieces will serve as coverings for the rails and cushions.

4

Attach the new felt to the rails using a staple gun. Attach new felt strips to the cushions, lightly tapping in the metal strip to hold the felt in place. Tighten the felt along the cushion, making sure it stays straight. Line up the cushions on the pool table, making small cuts at the pockets so the felt hangs down. Trim excess felt along the metal strips. Tap in the metal strip so it holds the felt tightly. Staple the other end of the felt to secure it in place.

5

Pull the staples holding the old felt to the bed of the pool table. Lay the new felt on the slate. Smooth the felt to make sure there are no ripples. Begin stapling at the center on one side, alternating sides and moving from the center out. Working from the center out will help ensure that your new felt is flat and tight. Make several slits at the pockets so the felt will hang down over the edges.

6

Insert a pen or screwdriver shaft through each of the bolt holes in the table bed, and make a small cross cut so the bolts will go through. Reinstall the cushions, rails and pocket protectors.