Making rockers for a rocking chair 1 is a video by Hunker. How to Make a Replacement Rocking Chair Runner.
The curved wood pieces on the base of the chair allow for the rocking motion.The runners of a rocking chair are more stressed out than any other part of the chair.Sometimes a used or vintage rocking chair will have a broken runner that needs to be replaced.Purchasing a new runner is more expensive than making your own.
Measure the width of the chair runner.The board should be the same thickness and length as the existing runner.The board should run down its length rather than across it.More strength is provided by a long grain.
The board should be laid on a level surface.The existing runner should be on top of the board if the rocking chair is turned to its side.The outline of the existing runner can be traced with a pencil or marker.
To cut out a new runner, follow the guideline drawn on the board with a saber saw.
Load a belt sander and use it to smooth the runner.To avoid depressions in the wood, sand the runner lightly.The clamps need to be removed.
The old runner should be aligned with the new one.The rocking chair legs should be positioned on the floor with the convex side facing them.The location of the rocking chair legs is marked with a pencil.
Fit a power drill with a drill bit that matches the diameter of the rocking chair leg.Half the depth of the runner should be drill through each mark.Measure the fit of the new runner into the chair legs.If the fit is too snug, sand the inside of the hole to enlarge it.
Wood glue can be applied to the base of each leg.Place the runner on the chair legs with a mallet.