'8 way hand tied sofa ' versus 'regular no sag spring system sofa' Which do you prefer?

Question

Miriam Illions · Answer

Excuse my ignorance but what is a 8 way hand tied sofa? :)

Woodstock Furniture Outlet · Answer

Miriam, 8 way hand tied refers to the spring system in some sofas.  It is an old tried and true technology where each spring in your sofa is literally tied 8 ways.  The no sag spring system is also very good.  It is newer technology and less labor intensive.

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

Which spring system is more comfortable and holds up better?

Woodstock Furniture Outlet · Answer

They are both very durable but the 8 way hand tied method is constructed to endure over a longer period of time.  They are both very comfortable.

Woodstock Furniture Outlet · Answer

Thanks everyone for your input.

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

I have heard that some of the new technology does not hold up as well.  Please explain in detail the new vs 8 way hand tied so that I can direct my clients on long lasting vs throw away, etc.  And of course please address comfort, is it the cushion that provides the comfort or springs.

Woodstock Furniture Outlet · Answer

Mrs. Culpepper
As a general rule the 8 way hand tied construction is used on better sofas. 
It is more labor intensive and considered the best. Although, the entire sofa construction is important. All aspects of the construction is important. For example, an imported sofa that is marketed as an 8 way hand tied but has cheap foam for cushion seats and or poorly constructed frame will totally take away from the 8 way.  So, with that said always ask about the other parts of the sofa. 
The no-sag construction is in many cases very good also. The key to a good sofa is that all the parts are of high quality and attention to detail is important. The no-sag with a high quality foam seat and a good hardwood and plywood frame will work together to make a good product. If one of them fail ( frame, foam, springs) the others will not hold up as designed. 
Todd Cronic
Woodstock Furniture Outlet

Donna McCrummen · Answer

I'm actually looking at www.Nantuckit.com - I love the Basset sofa set. Does anyone know this manufacturer? Also, how do you know the furniture is actually what the sales person is telling you it is? Is there a way to check?

Woodstock Furniture Outlet · Answer

Bassett is a well known brand although it is not a brand we carry. You need to research your local dealer to make sure they are reputable. Possibly check online to see if there are any negative reviews of the sofa set or dealer.

Donna McCrummen · Answer

Thank you for your reply Woodstock, I did some research last night. Nantuckit is a retailer and Basset is what they call the sofa I like. Four Seasons is the manufacturer. Nantuckit is an online retailer - I haven't found anything negative about them at all. I contacted Four Seasons and they are sending me a list of retailers near me. They don't sell direct.

Donna McCrummen · Answer

Yeah - I finally found a few retailers near me that stock sofa's by the manufacturer Four Seasons. I'll do some test sitting this week. Woo Hoo

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

Pre-sitting a sofa is excellent!

V-pro vinyl and leather repair LLC · Answer

I agree that a hand tied 8 way spring system is more comfortable and as stated much more labor intensive to manufacture. No sag spring's are still comfortable and are very easy to repair. 
As Ms. Culpepper stated no sag can be broken easier (this is generally only under abuse type settings, commercial, jumping up and down on them) but hold up fine under normal wear and tear.

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

So glad you are here to share your knowledge V-pro! Thank you again.

Donna McCrummen · Answer

OK everyone - Here it is - I sat on this sofa at a local retailer - it is sooo comfy. http://www.nantuckit.com/cottage/abercrombie.html --- we are going for the 8 way hand tied upgrade. Now to decide on down or no down. I have down now - it's 14 years old and is high maintenance. Lot's of fluffing AND I've been adding stuffing to the back cushions for years. Any opinion on down?

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

The new upgraded cushion is called Spring/down.  The cushion has springs in it & has a down topper.  It is the most comfortable seat!!! I love it.  I too have had the old solid down cushion, please do not do that, the Spring/down is the new way.

Donna McCrummen · Answer

Thank you Lee Anne - that is it then - The Nantuckit Abercrombie with all the bells and whistles. Now I have to decide on a fabric and color - I love sage it's such a nice neutral green.

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

I love sage as well.  I think that it is an awesome choice.  The cool thing is, you can have another slip cover made.  The couch should outlast the cover since you did your homework!!! Great job.

Donna McCrummen · Answer

You're right about that. The Rowe we have now needs new covers but since it will be in the play room.........

Maureen · Answer

I am thinking of purchasing a Nantuckit sleeper sectional slipcover sofa.  I am wondering since you sat in one, do you suggest in going with the upgrade of spring and down cushions, as well as the 8 way hand tied?  I want to keep costs down, and want to cover it with a neutral natural color, since we are looking for a nantucket look in a summer condo.  Is off white practical, do you think?  Thanks for any input I can get!

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

Maureen, I insist with all of my clients that they buy the spring/down cushions.  You will never regret it & you will want it in all of your upholstered seating.  It is amazing!!! Very comfortable.  No, an off white is not practical if you have pets & kids.  However, it is the style now, hence I would have a fabric protection applied by the manufacturer.

Maureen · Answer

Thanks so much, Lee Anne! It's difficult purchasing a sofa without getting to sit in it, first!  Now, what  fabric, since I am wanting to do a Nantucket style ?  Thinking of a white or off white.  Wanting to do blues with the pillows, paints, etc...Is there a color an fabric from Nantuckit you have seen, and loved?  Thanks again, for all of your help!

Maureen · Answer

No pets, no small kids.  But, what color would you do to get the Nantucket feel?  Thanks, again, for your advice!  I appreciate it more than you can know! : )

Culpepper Carpets and Interiors, Inc. · Answer

My pleasure Maureen! You are on the right path. The white and blue are stunning and is a perfect choice for your project.  I actually love the combo! You will be able to change it up later if you tire of it.

Alicia Vance · Answer

I have found the following discussions to be immensely helpful in my own search for the 'perfect' sofa. The question I now have is what type of covering do you recommend for a sofa in a home with three small children (new born - 4yrs). Fabric vs Leather. Assuming fabric, which type? Thank you

Donna McCrummen · Answer

I've had my Nantuckit now for a while. I don't love it. It's hard to fluff and the slipcovers are ridiculous! They actually need ironing.

Pleak30 · Answer

You can watch this video that may help you to see what 8 way hand tied springs are installed. they are much better the the new zig-zag springs are and they don't break as easy. Patrick's Upholstery Shop https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFa2lRusy3g

"8 way hand tied sofa " versus "regular no sag spring system sofa" Which do you prefer?

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"8 way hand tied sofa " versus "regular no sag spring system sofa" Which do you prefer?

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