Whether you're looking to add a new look to your dining room or simply want something softer to sit on, upholstering is a great way to maximize the design and function of your dining chairs. With the right decision-making and a little bit of creativity, you can transform your seats into works of art.
Dining chair upholstery doesn't have to be boring! To help you narrow down your options, we've put together a list of factors you must take into account when picking your favorite dining chair upholstery.
Style
When choosing upholstery, be sure to take into consideration the overall style of your dining room. If you have a formal setting, opt for an elegant, intricate print like a basketweave or a simple pattern like stripes. If you want something a little more subdued, try using a solid-colored fabric in a rich hue. This will add instant sophistication to your dining room. You'll probably want to choose traditional fabrics like velvet, brocade, or damask to evoke a formal feel. On the contrary, to create a casual or relaxed atmosphere, consider a funky pattern or vibrant hue. Since you’re going for a casual look, you can have more fun with prints and textures. You can even mix and match different fabrics for a truly unique look. You can try a linen or cotton blend as these fabrics are perfect for country-chic or shabby-chic style dining rooms. For something more contemporary, try a geometric print or something with bold colors. When you want to combine eras and give a modern twist on traditional upholstery, try using a graphic print fabric.Color
Consider the overall color scheme of your dining room. What colors are dominant? If you have a lot of neutral tones, adding in some brighter hues can really make a difference. Conversely, if your space is already pretty colorful, you might want to opt for more subdued shades. You want to make sure that the colors complement each other. You don't want anything too jarring or busy. You also want to think about the feel of the room before you decide on a pattern or color. If you're going for a more formal look, then you might want to stick with classic colors like black, white, or gray or pale shades such as beige, peach, and nude. But if you're going for a more casual look, then you can have fun with brighter colors.Pattern
When it comes to dining room upholstery, there are a few key patterns that always seem to be popular.- Floral patterns are classic and timeless. They showcase sophistication and vibrance for a whimsical vibe.
- Stripes are another popular option. The lines can be horizontal or vertical, thick or thin. They create an illusion of size depending on their orientation.
- Polka dots are playful and fun. The circles can liven up the space and give it more dimension.
- Animal prints are bold and unique. They’re perfect for a jungle aesthetic and will definitely make a statement in your dining room.
- Geometric patterns are modern and chic. They can add some visual interest to an otherwise bland space.
Texture
A textured fabric will add variety and depth to your chair upholstery. There are many different textures available, from smooth and sleek to rough and coarse. Smooth textures are classic and timeless. They work well with both traditional and contemporary styles. Rough textures, on the other hand, indicate a sturdy fabric and their textured appearance can break up a large space. When it comes to upholstery textures, you can choose a fabric that compliments your existing furniture and will be nice to sit on. A smooth, silky fabric might look great, but it might not be very comfortable to sit on for a long meal. A rougher fabric might be more durable and easier to clean, but it might not be as comfortable or as elegant. If you want a sophisticated look, go for a shiny, solid-color fabric or try using luxurious upholstery like velvet or suede. If you're going for a more casual vibe, choose linen and cotton. If you're looking for something in between, consider a wool blend.Fabric
Upholstering dining chairs is a great way to add a personal touch to your dining area. There are many different fabrics to choose from, so it's important to consider what look you're trying to achieve. Here are some common dining chair upholstery fabrics you may like:- Linen is a classic fabric choice for dining chairs. It's durable and easy to clean, making it a great option for families with kids or pets. Plus, it has a casual yet sophisticated look that will never go out of style.
- Velvet is a luxurious fabric that adds a touch of elegance to any dining room. It's important to note that velvet is a bit more delicate than other fabrics, so it's important to choose a quality velvet that will hold up well over time.
- Leather is another popular choice for dining chair upholstery. It adds a touch of luxury to any space and is also very durable and easy to care for.
Function
When it comes to picking the right fabric for your needs, it's important to consider function. Think of those who will use it. If you have young children, opt for a fabric that can withstand dirt, spills, and stains. A mess is inevitable with kids running around, so look for fabrics that are easy to spot clean or that can be dry cleaned. If you have pets, go for upholstery that they can’t claw off and won’t fray easily. When you entertain often, choose something that is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. Next, consider how often you'll be using the chairs. If they're going to get a lot of use, you'll want to choose a durable fabric that can withstand repeated cleaning. If you seldom use your dining chairs, then you can get away with a more delicate kind of fabric.Comfort
You want a fabric that will complement the overall look of your dining room, but it should also be comfortable to sit on for long periods of time. A good rule of thumb is to choose a fabric that has a bit of give to it. This will allow you to sink into your chair without feeling like you're being pinched by the fabric. A textured fabric can be great for adding some extra grip, which can be helpful if you have children or pets that like to jump up on chairs. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer feel, then a smooth fabric might be a better option.
Upholstering your dining chairs is a great way to add some extra ease and style to your space. With this guide, it's easy to find the perfect match for your existing décor even if there are so many different textures and colors available.
If you’re also still searching for the best dining chairs to go with the upholstery of your choice, visit Hunt Country Furniture. You can pick from our selection of wooden dining chairs and you may find a style that you like, so you can install that upholstery right away.