About Pool Table Felt

The felt on your pool or billiards table can be easily replaced if it gets old or worn. You can simply reupholster the playing surface so your pool table looks like new. However, you must choose the new pool felt based on overall durability, appearance and game play.

Identification

Most pool felt materials are blends of wool and either cotton or nylon. Higher quality pool felt materials are made of worsted wool, which makes the fibers the same size. This type of wool resists pilling and fuzzing. The felt weight can vary from 19 to 24 ounces, but the heavier felt is considered superior since the weave is tighter and more durable. You should also look for a higher thread count for the fabric.

Types

Some manufacturers may also include Teflon or other stain resistant additives to the fabric for resistance to dirt, food and drink stains. If the fabric doesn't come with built-in stain protection, you can also buy specialized fabric sprays and apply them later.
Some famous brands for pool felt include Championship, Mali, Iwan Simonis, Sterling and Velocity. Prices can range from $50 for lower quality felt to over $200 for higher quality felt for a 7-foot pool table

Size

When figuring out the amount of fabric you need, measure from side rail to side rail. You can also add an inch or two for clearance. Some companies sell the pool felt pre-cut, while others sell by the bolt and you send in the measurements.
When attaching the fabric, you either use staples or a special glue adhesive. Most companies offer detailed instructions and kits for DIY installation, or you can hire an expert to complete the job.

History

Pool felt material comes in a variety of colors. Green is most historic, since the first billiards tables were made to resemble outdoor grass fields. It is also commonly used for pool tournaments and other official games. The green shade is relaxing for the eyes and makes it easier to focus when concentrating on a shot.

Considerations

Light colors like blue, tan, camel and grey are okay for pool table colors. However, the color black is particularly difficult to play on, especially with the 8-ball. Bright red is also considered a difficult color to play pool on, as well as other very dark or overly bright colors. You should also consider the lighting in your game room as well as the overall dcor and color scheme when choosing a color.

Features

You can also get a stock or custom design for your pool table. Many manufacturers offer pool felt with stock designs like cityscapes, nature views, alcohol logos, automobile logos, military logos, school mascots or colors. You can also send in a photo or graphic to get a custom design. However, be aware that it maybe difficult to see clearly and play well on these custom pool felts.