How to Install Cloth on a Valley Pool Table

The felt on any pool table is the first part to show signs of wear. Replacing the felt on a Valley pool table is a job for two people or more because the slate top is heavy and expensive to replace if broken. The new felt cloth in December 2010 costs $80 from Valley Dynamo.

Instructions

1

Unscrew the trim screws with the screwdriver and remove the trim exposing the cushion bolts. Remove the cushion bolts and the cushions.

2

Remove the glued down shims, numbering them and marking the position on the rails so that you can return them to the same position later.

3

Remove the slate and set it on an elevated support so you can work under the edges. Remove the felt by cutting from corner to corner and pulling the cloth toward you.

4

Center the new felt over the slate and flip up the sides all around. Apply contact glue to the 5 inches of the flipped-up felt and 4 inches of the underside of the slate and all around the edges.

5

Roll the felt down over the side of one end, stop and trim the corners diagonally from the slate to the point of the corner on the felt. Square trim any felt that would overlap then press the felt against the bottom. When all sides are glued you don't want the felt more than one layer thick in any spot.

6

On the opposite side of the pool table pull the felt tight but make sure it's smooth. Roll the felt over the edge of the slate and repeat the diagonal cut and then trim off the felt.

7

Repeat the diagonal corner cut at the pockets. In addition, cut at the side pocket. Pull down and under as you glue the felt to the underside of the slate. Repeat with the second long side, pulling the felt tight and smooth from one corner inward.

8

Cut three slices in the felt of each corner pocket and five at each side pocket. the felt should look like pie pieces are missing when done. Do not cut too closely to the bottom of the slate. Pull the felt tight around the pockets and glue it. Apply tape across the slices.

9

Replace the slate on the pool table and reinstall the shims, gluing them back in place.

10

Reinstall the cushions and the trim.