Courtesy of: julieL2009’s photostream at Flickr

Question: Dear Maite,

I’m in the middle of shopping for my first sofa and am very confused by the difference between 8 way hand tied and Pirelli webbing? My mom says only buy 8 way hand tied, but the frames are certainly more expensive and seem to be more traditional in design. Which is better?

Hanging by a thread

Answer: Dear Hanging by a Thread,

Did your dad tell you to kick the tires when you bought your first car? Ok, seriously, 8 way is the traditional method of springing a frame, but sinuous springs can be just as good. What really matters is the quality of the whole sofa not just one part i.e., 8 way hand tied springs inside a glue and screw plywood frame? I don’t think so… The big question is what’s the warranty on the frame? If it’s lifetime and your buying from a reputable manufacturer and retailer, then yahoo, go crazy! Buy what you love! Besides, either sofa, whether 8 way or Pirelli webbing will certainly outlast your fondness for it. It’s o.k . to buy a new sofa every few years- you don’t have to reupholster the same frame for the rest of your life like our parents did. Sorry Mom & Dad.

Maite

Courtesy of: julieL2009’s photostream at Flickr

Courtesy of: julieL2009’s photostream at Flickr