Thanks Geoff. I'm not sure how the stretch recommendation I posted is being interpreted; when the vendor says "about 1"-1.5" in width and 2"-2.5" in length will give the best result,"" I don't think they are saying that's the maximum stretch for the cloth, and maybe they aren't recommending it be stretched as tight as you might do. We'll see, I guess.
"Stretch it straight" really resonated with me, thanks, I'm glad you said it that way. I imagine that's what all of the marking is about to make sure that one not only stretches it tightly, but that it is stretched evenly in both dimensions. Is that what you meant? I would imagine evenly is more important that the actual tension.
Canvas pullers, check - found them on Amazon, seems like they will be better than Vice Grips, although they don't lock.
jv
You are correct. The marking represents a reference line, which allows you to pull the cloth straight.
Additionally, you never want to stretch a cloth to its maximum ability. Going a little lighter on the width, and heavier on the length allows for less stretch shadows. Though you still want to mark the ends, to ensure that the cloth is pulled straight along the ends of the table. I don't believe the Simonis videos show that. I stretch Simonis 860HR 1 5/8" across the width (on a Gold Crown), which allows me to go heavier on the length stretch, leaving no stretch shadows.
Just a side note: if this were a cloth like Championship Tour Edition, I wouldn't have any concerns. That cloth has a much higher stretch, and is MUCH easier to install. I can tell, simply by the numbers, that this one will be difficult.
Having not previously installed cloth before, I can imagine that you will struggle with the nuances. Many experienced installers complain that Simonis 860HR is difficult to install. Knowing the recommended stretch, this cloth will be more difficult to install. Not having prior experience, you won't know the tricks of the trade, which make it all work. Unfortunately, "feel" is difficult to teach. What I mean by that: when I pull a cloth across a table, I can feel how far that it needs to be stretched, in which directions, and what is going to yield a good looking install. I can also feel how much slack I need to close the pockets, and where to pull the cloth, if I leave too much slack. However, that feel came from years of installing cloth.
Not trying to discourage you, by any means.. Only offering advice, from my own experience. I believe that you said that you wanted to do a glue down installation. Though, I might recommend that you staple instead.. This will allow more flexibility, should you make a mistake. I can only imagine that there will be mistakes. And that's OK! Just be realistic with your expectations, and take your time. Worry less about what they recommend for a length stretch, and more about ensuring that it is stretched straight along the ends. You will have a hard time stretching the cloth across the width of the table.. If you attach your first side with the edge of the cloth at the bottom of the slate liner, you will likely be a bit short on cloth across the width. Just another consideration for stapling.
