Abstract: A fabric web having a high modulus of elasticity is used as a spring element in an upholstered article such as a seat or a bed. The fabric web is joined to a metal rod serving as a frame member of the upholstered article by an end portion of the fabric web, which is folded on itself over the metal rod to provided folded and unfolded layers that are united together by means of a heat-fusible resin film. The heat-fusible resin film is held against the inner surface of the folded end portion of the fabric web and fused by high-frequency welding. The folded end portion of the fabric web is protected by the intermediary film against damage which would otherwise be caused by abrasive contact with a rust layer on the metal rod. The film sandwiched between the folded and unfolded layers has opposite ends folded and fused over the unfolded layer of the fabric web for reinforcing marginal edges of the fabric web.