How do I replace the slatted seat of a wooden rocker?
by Mona
+3
I have a very old wooden rocker. I’m not sure if it’s homemade or store bought. I have searched the internet for one like it, to no avail.i took the rotten seat materials off and there were layers of a burlap sack, padding, various fabric, and very brittle slats. I need to start from the bottom layer to recreate the seat, but I can’t figure out what to use for the slats. The old ones were very thin slats of wood. The rocker seat consists of a series of dowels and then those were covered by the thin slats. The slats have to fit in a groove on both sides and be pliable enough to extend over the front curve of the seat where the dowels extend down in front.So I need some material sturdy enough to sit on yet slightly bendable and thin enough to fit in the grooves that are on the sides of the entire seat area.any suggest? Thanks!
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I know amazon.com has parts for sale for rockers so that should be a good place to check out.
If you posted a picture of your rocker, we could see exactly what you have to work with. If it is indeed a valuable antique piece, it might be worth the investment to pay to have a professional rebuild the seat, and to replace the upholstery.
Mona
One idea would be to take the seat to an upholstery shop and just ask them how to do it or get an estimate for them to do the work or if you know someone who does wood working that could possibly do the work. It sounds like a lot of pieces to replace or repair. Here are other ideas that may help
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89JA42TATMg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFghGR7xWDI
Here are some ideas https://www.doityourself.com/stry/4-cheap-outdoor-rocking-chair-fixes
You might be able to use luan plywood. It is thin and can bend slightly.
Thanks to everyone. Very helpful!
Pictures of the rocker: Notice the dowels that shape the front curve. The seat actually extends down in front. The close up shows the groove where the slats fit in. The other picture is with the metal piece that is where you put most of your bottom.