Can You Refelt a Pool Table Yourself?

Refelting a pool table may seem like a task best left to professionals, but with the right tools and preparation, it’s possible to do it yourself. Whether you’re restoring an old table or just updating the felt, understanding the process can save you time and money. This guide walks you through the necessary steps, what to expect, and when it might make sense to hire a professional instead.

Understanding the Scope of Refelting

Before beginning, it’s important to grasp what refelting involves. The felt (or cloth) on a pool table is essential for consistent ball movement. Over time, it can wear out, stretch, or tear, affecting gameplay. Refelting involves removing the old cloth, preparing the surface, and carefully applying a new one.

So, can you refelt a pool table yourself? Yes but you’ll need patience, attention to detail, and basic tools.

What You’ll Need to Refelt a Pool Table

Before starting the process, gather the following tools and materials:

• New pool table felt (sized to your table)
  
  
• Staple gun and staples
  
  
• Flathead screwdriver or staple remover
  
  
• Socket wrench set
  
  
• Scissors or utility knife
  
  
• Measuring tape
  
  
• Level
  
  
• Contact adhesive (optional, depending on table type)
  
  

Make sure to work in a clean, dry, and well-lit area. If the table is heavy, it’s advisable to have someone help you with disassembly and reassembly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Disassemble the Pool Table

Start by removing the rails from the table using a socket wrench. Unscrew and carefully set aside the cushions, bolts, and other hardware. Place all screws and bolts in a container to avoid losing them.

Tip: Take pictures before and during disassembly for easier reassembly later.

2. Remove the Old Felt

Depending on how the current felt is attached, use a staple remover or flathead screwdriver to lift it. Some felts may be glued down. If that’s the case, peel the cloth carefully to avoid damaging the slate underneath.

Inspect the slate surface. If there are chips or damage, consider patching or leveling it before proceeding.

3. Prepare the Slate

Clean the slate surface using a dry cloth. Check for uneven areas using a level. Minor imperfections can affect play, so addressing them before applying new felt is essential.

If your table has screw holes or joints between slate sections, ensure they are secure and level before you start laying the new cloth.

4. Cut and Place the New Felt

Lay the new felt over the slate. Ensure there’s enough overhang on all sides for stretching and securing it. Do not cut the final shape until the cloth is correctly aligned and partially secured.

For best results:

• Stretch the felt evenly from the center outward.
  
  
• Staple or glue the cloth at the center of one end first, then move to the opposite end, pulling it taut.
  
  
• Work your way toward the corners while maintaining consistent tension.
  
  

Trim any excess material with a utility knife once secured.

5. Refelt the Rails

Each rail must also be refelted. Remove the old cloth and staples. Measure and cut new pieces of felt for each rail, ensuring the right fit.

Wrap the felt around the rail and staple it on the underside. Reattach the cushions and rails to the table frame.

6. Reassemble the Table

Once the new felt is secured to both the slate and the rails, reassemble the table:

• Bolt the rails back in place using the photos and notes you took earlier.
  
  
• Check that the cushions are aligned correctly.
  
  
• Ensure all bolts are tight and the playing surface is level.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If you're considering the question, Can you refelt a pool table yourself?, it's important to avoid these frequent pitfalls:

• Using the wrong size felt – Measure your table carefully before buying.
  
  
• Failing to stretch evenly – Uneven tension leads to wrinkles and inconsistent play.
  
  
• Skipping surface prep – Always clean and inspect the slate before applying new felt.
  
  
• Neglecting rail angles – Rails influence rebound; correct angles are crucial.
  
  

How Long Does DIY Refelting Take?

Expect the project to take 4–6 hours for someone doing it for the first time. If you're working slowly and carefully, it may take a full day. Don’t rush—accuracy matters more than speed.

Is DIY Refelting Worth It?

Whether or not you should refelt your pool table yourself depends on your comfort with tools and attention to detail. Here’s a quick comparison:

DIY Refelting	Professional Service
Lower cost	Higher cost
More time-consuming	Faster, done by experts
Requires precision	Guaranteed quality
Hands-on learning	Stress-free

If your table is antique or high-end, it may be safer to hire a professional to avoid damage.

Final Thoughts

Can you refelt a pool table yourself? Yes, with the right preparation and patience. The process involves disassembling the table, removing the old felt, leveling the slate, and carefully stretching and attaching the new cloth. While it’s a manageable task for a confident DIYer, mistakes can affect playability, so take your time.

If you’re unsure or working with a costly table, it might be wise to consult a professional. But if you're motivated and methodical, refelting your pool table yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective project.