Felt For Pool Table - Tablesroom

The Essential Guide to Felt for Pool Tables

The felt on your pool table is an essential component that influences both the playability and aesthetics of your game. In this guide, we will explore the different aspects of felt for pool tables, providing you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision when choosing and maintaining felt for your table.

Types of Felt

There are two main types of felt used on pool tables: worsted and napped. Worsted felt is made from tightly twisted, long wool fibers, resulting in a smooth, durable surface. It is typically used on higher-end tables and provides excellent ball roll and speed. Napped felt, on the other hand, has shorter wool fibers that are brushed to create a nap, or pile. This type of felt is less expensive than worsted felt and is suitable for casual play or home use.

Colors and Patterns

The color of your pool table felt can have a significant impact on the overall atmosphere of your game room. Traditional colors include green, burgundy, and blue, but you can also find felt in a wide range of other colors and patterns to match your personal style or décor. Some manufacturers even offer custom-printed felt to create a truly unique look.

Speed and Cue Ball Control

The speed of your pool table felt is determined by the type of felt, the nap length, and the tightness of the weave. A fast felt will allow the ball to roll more easily and travel farther, while a slow felt will provide more control over the cue ball. The thickness of the felt can also affect its speed, with thicker felts being slower and providing more cushion for the balls.

Durability and Maintenance

The durability of your pool table felt depends on the quality of the felt and the frequency of use. Worsted felt is generally more durable than napped felt, and it can withstand heavy use better. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your felt. This includes brushing or vacuuming the felt to remove dust and debris, and occasionally treating it with a felt cleaner to prevent stains and spills from setting in.

Choosing the Right Felt

When choosing felt for your pool table, consider the following factors:

Type of play: If you are a serious player or play frequently, worsted felt is a better choice for its durability and speed.
Budget: Napped felt is more affordable than worsted felt, making it a good option for casual players or home use.
Color and style: Choose a color and pattern that complements your game room décor and personal preferences.
Speed: Consider the desired speed of your table based on your playing style and the type of felt you choose.

By understanding the essential aspects of felt for pool tables, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your game and provide you with hours of enjoyment.