Upholstery Springs and Webbing for Furniture Support
Shop upholstery springs and webbing for furniture manufacturing, reupholstery, restoration and repair. Livedale supplies traditional and modern furniture support systems for professional upholsterers, furniture makers, repair businesses and experienced DIY customers.
Springs and webbing form the supporting foundation beneath the foam, fibre, feather or traditional upholstery fillings. The type of support used, its condition and how it is fitted can all influence the comfort, resilience and finished feel of a seat or backrest.
Our range includes traditional double cone springs, preassembled spring units, zigzag and superloop springs, tension springs, spring clips, bracewires and several types of upholstery webbing. These products can be used when constructing new furniture or replacing worn, stretched, broken or corroded components in an existing frame.
Shop Furniture Springs and Upholstery Webbing
The range is divided into two principal categories: upholstery springs and upholstery webbing.
Choosing between springs, webbing or a combination of both depends on the furniture design, the original construction and the level of support required. When repairing an existing piece, replacing the original system like for like is often the most straightforward approach unless the frame is being professionally redesigned.
Upholstery Springs
Browse our complete range of upholstery springs for traditional seating, modern sofas, chairs, backrests and furniture restoration.
The category includes individual coil springs, complete spring units, zigzag springs, superloop springs and tension springs, together with the clips, wires and components required to secure and stabilise them.
Different spring systems create different levels of resistance, movement and support. The correct choice will depend on the furniture frame, the available fixing points, the intended position and the construction method being used.
Double Cone Springs
Traditional double cone springs are commonly used in traditional chair, sofa and furniture upholstery. They are also known as hourglass or coil upholstery springs because of their distinctive shape.
Individual springs are positioned across the seat or furniture section and traditionally tied together using upholstery twine. They may be supported beneath by strong jute webbing and secured using an appropriate spring-tying method.
The height and wire gauge of the spring affect how it performs. The correct size should be selected according to the depth of the frame, the intended finished height and the type of support required.
Double cone springs are particularly useful where a traditional springing system is being restored or recreated. Correct positioning and tying are important, as the springs must work together rather than independently.
Preassembled Spring Units
Upholstery spring units provide a connected spring system that can be fitted into a suitable furniture frame.
Because the springs are already assembled into a complete unit, they can offer a more efficient alternative to positioning and tying individual coil springs. They are suitable for furniture production, larger restoration projects and repairs where a complete spring platform needs to be replaced.
Before ordering a spring unit, measure the available frame area carefully. Check the overall width, depth, height and fixing method rather than relying solely on the external dimensions of the chair or sofa.
The surrounding timber frame must also be strong enough to support the unit and its fixings. Any loose joints, split rails or weakened timber should be repaired before a replacement spring system is installed.
Zigzag Springs
Zigzag upholstery springs are widely used in modern sofas, chairs and upholstered furniture. They are also known as sinuous, serpentine or no-sag springs.
Each spring runs across the furniture frame and is secured at both ends using compatible clips. When correctly selected and fitted, the springs form a supportive platform beneath the seat cushion or upholstered section.
Zigzag springs are available in different wire gauges and lengths. The spring must suit the span between the fixing rails and should be installed with the appropriate tension and curvature for the furniture design.
A spring that is too short, excessively stretched or fitted to unsuitable fixings can place unnecessary strain on the frame. A spring that is too long may not provide the intended level of support.
Where only one spring has failed, inspect the surrounding springs and clips before replacing it. A broken spring may be an isolated failure, but it can also indicate that neighbouring components are worn, loose or overloaded.
Superloop Springs
Superloop springs are generally used where a more flexible and responsive spring system is required, particularly in upholstered backs and other areas that need softer movement.
Their looping construction provides a different action from standard zigzag seat springs. They can be used in suitable furniture frames to support backs, arms and other upholstered sections.
The spring type should be matched to the original furniture construction and intended application. A back spring designed to provide flexible support should not automatically be substituted for a heavier seat spring.
Measure the fixing span and examine the original clips or mounting system before ordering replacements.
Tension Springs
Tension springs are used in particular furniture support systems, including a number of traditional and mid-century chair designs.
They are commonly associated with furniture where individual tension springs run between fixing points within the frame. Some versions include a protective rubber sleeve, depending on the construction and intended application.
When replacing tension springs, check the overall spring length, wire gauge, hook configuration and whether the original spring was covered or uncovered.
Do not choose a replacement based only on the appearance of the spring. A difference in length or wire strength can alter the support and place additional load on the frame or adjoining components.
Spring Clips, Bracewire and Fixing Components
Our spring clips and bracewire category includes the components used to secure, connect and stabilise upholstery springs.
The range includes spring clips, continuous plastic spring clip, tension spring hooks, stakewire, clout nails and other related fittings.
Clips must be compatible with the spring type and furniture frame. Reusing distorted, cracked or heavily worn clips may lead to movement, noise or premature failure of the replacement spring.
Bracewires and connecting components help springs work together and can reduce unwanted sideways movement. Their positioning should follow the original furniture construction or an established professional fitting method.
Upholstery Webbing
Browse our complete range of upholstery webbing for supporting seats, backs, arms and other upholstered furniture sections.
The range includes elasticated webbing, polypropylene webbing, traditional jute webbing and rubber webbing with compatible clips.
Some webbing is intended to provide firm, rigid support, while other types are designed to stretch under load. Choosing the correct material is therefore essential. Webbing intended for a flexible backrest may not provide sufficient support beneath a heavily used seat.
Elasticated Upholstery Webbing
Elasticated and polypropylene webbing includes flexible webbing for modern furniture seats and backrests, together with rigid polypropylene options for suitable furniture applications.
Elasticated upholstery webbing is available in different widths and elongation ratings. Lower-stretch webbing generally creates a firmer support, while higher-stretch webbing allows greater movement and is often more suitable for backs.
The intended use should always be checked against the individual product specification. Width alone does not determine suitability, as two webbings of the same width may provide very different levels of stretch and resistance.
Elasticated webbing must be fitted under controlled tension. Too little tension can leave the furniture feeling slack, while excessive tension can affect comfort and place unnecessary load on the frame.
When repairing a webbed seat or back, inspect all adjoining strips. Replacing only one badly stretched section may create uneven support if the remaining webbing has also weakened with age.
Polypropylene Webbing
Polypropylene webbing is a rigid synthetic webbing used in furniture manufacture, repair and general upholstery work.
Unlike elasticated webbing, it is not intended to create substantial stretch. It can be used to provide support across suitable seats, backs, arms and furniture sections, depending on the construction.
Polypropylene webbing is useful where a strong and consistent synthetic support material is required. However, it should not automatically be treated as a substitute for elasticated, rubber or jute webbing, as each material behaves differently.
Check the furniture’s original support system and intended finished feel before changing from one type of webbing to another.
Traditional Jute Webbing
Traditional jute webbing is widely used in furniture restoration and traditional upholstery.
It can be stretched across the frame to create a firm supporting base and is often used beneath double cone springs. It may also be used directly to support seats, backs or arms, depending on the furniture construction and grade of webbing selected.
Jute webbing is available in different qualities, widths and strengths. Heavier seat applications generally require a stronger grade than lightly loaded backs or arms.
The webbing is normally arranged in interwoven horizontal and vertical runs. Correct tension is important: loose webbing will not provide a stable foundation, while excessive force can damage weaker or older furniture rails.
A purpose-made upholstery webbing stretcher provides greater control than trying to tension the material entirely by hand.
Rubber Webbing and Clips
Rubber upholstery webbing and clips are used in a range of chairs, sofas and mid-century furniture.
Rubber webbing is particularly well known for its use in Ercol-style seating and other furniture where individual webbing straps are secured into purpose-made slots or fixing points.
Replacement rubber webbing must be selected carefully. Check the strap width, overall length, fixing arrangement and clip type before ordering.
The required length may differ from the uncovered distance across the frame because the webbing must be fitted under tension. Follow the measuring guidance given with the individual product rather than simply cutting the webbing to the visible gap.
Where existing clips are corroded, distorted or loose, they should be inspected and replaced as necessary. Correctly matched clips are essential for keeping the webbing safely secured within the frame.
Springs or Webbing: Which Support System Do You Need?
There is no single support system that is correct for every piece of upholstered furniture.
Traditional chairs and sofas may use double cone springs supported by jute webbing. Modern furniture may use zigzag springs, elasticated webbing or a combination of different systems across the seat and back.
Mid-century furniture may use rubber webbing or tension springs, while mass-produced furniture can contain preassembled spring units.
When repairing existing furniture, begin by identifying:
- The original spring or webbing type
- The dimensions and fixing method
- The condition of the surrounding frame
- Whether adjoining components are also worn
- The required level of seat or back support
- Any clips, wires, twines or fixings needed for installation
Photographing the original arrangement before dismantling it can provide a useful reference when fitting the replacement components.
Seat Support and Back Support
Seats and backrests generally require different levels of resistance.
A seat must support the user’s weight and normally needs a firmer, more durable foundation. A backrest carries a different load and may be designed to flex more easily.
This is why furniture manufacturers may use heavier springs or lower-stretch webbing in a seat and lighter springs or more elasticated webbing in a back.
The correct choice should be based on the furniture design and product specification rather than using the same material throughout for convenience.
Measuring Replacement Springs and Webbing
Accurate measuring is essential when replacing furniture springs or webbing.
For springs, check:
- Overall spring length or height
- Wire gauge or thickness
- Width across the spring
- Number and shape of loops
- Hook or end configuration
- Distance between fixing points
- Type and condition of the existing clips
For webbing, check:
- Webbing type and material
- Width
- Elongation or stretch rating
- Existing fixing method
- Distance across the furniture frame
- Allowance required for fitting tension
- Number and spacing of individual webbing runs
Do not rely solely on measurements taken from a badly stretched or broken component. Where possible, compare several intact springs or webbing strips from the same piece of furniture.
Replacing Worn Furniture Springs and Webbing
Common signs of spring or webbing failure include sagging seats, uneven support, creaking, visible broken springs and cushions dropping too deeply into the frame.
These symptoms do not always mean that the cushion filling itself has failed. A new foam cushion placed over a damaged support system may still feel uncomfortable and can deteriorate more quickly because it is not being supported evenly.
Before replacing cushions or upholstery fillings, inspect the support system beneath them. Check the springs, webbing, clips, frame rails and fixing points for wear or damage.
Where several components have deteriorated together, replacing the complete support section may produce a more consistent result than carrying out a series of isolated repairs.
Related Upholstery Supplies
Spring and webbing work often requires additional tools, materials and fixings.
Browse our professional upholstery tools for webbing stretchers, pliers, hammers and other workshop equipment.
Our staples and tacks category includes fixings for securing upholstery materials to suitable furniture frames.
For traditional springing and furniture construction, you may also require products from our workroom supplies and hessian and lining cloths ranges.
Once the support system is secure, explore our foams and fillings for seat cushions, padding, wadding and replacement upholstery materials.
Trade Upholstery Springs and Webbing
Livedale supplies upholstery springs, furniture webbing and related components to professional upholsterers, furniture manufacturers, repair workshops and restoration businesses throughout the UK.
Approved trade customers can access preferential trade pricing across eligible products after registering for a trade account.
Browse the Springs and Webbing categories above to find the correct support materials for your next furniture manufacturing, restoration or reupholstery project.