Published: 3/8/20207 Steps
How to Fix a Wobbly Chair
1. LOOSEN THE JOINT
Knock the loose joint free with a hammer or mallet.
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2. SAND IT SMOOTH
Remove any old glue from both surfaces of the joint with a utility knife. Use sandpaper or steel wool to smooth out the joint as much as possible. Or, a rotary tool with a sanding attachment makes short work of this step.
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3. GLUE IT
Spread wood glue on the surfaces of the joint. It’s better to use too much than too little. You can wipe away the excess with a wet rag.
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4. SCREW IT
Drill a pocket screw into the chair parts at an angle for extra reinforcement. A pocket-hole jig can guide the screw in at the correct angle.
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5. CLAMP IT
Clamp the joint. Tighten the clamp until the glue oozes out and wipe away the excess.
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6. LET IT DRY
Let the glue dry under pressure for 24 hours.
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7. HELPFUL TIP
Wobbly spindles on your stairway can be fixed the same way as the spindles on your chair back.
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A wobbly chair is one of those fixes that is so simple, you’ll wonder why you put it off so long.
Products: Sanding Paper - Wood Glue
