What type of fabric is best for dining room chairs?

The best fabric for dining room chairs is really a matter of preference. Those who are looking for maximum durability should opt for a smooth synthetic fabric that is liquid repellant. Shop dining room chairs in a variety of fabrics on 1stDibs.

What is a dining chair?

A dining chair is a chair used to provide seating while dining at a table. There are two main types: side chairs and armchairs. As the name suggests, armchairs feature integrated arms, and they typically go along the short ends of rectangular tables. Free of arms, side chairs are usually arranged along the sides of rectangular tables. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining chairs.

How tall should dining chairs be?

Dining chairs should be around 18 inches tall. Since most dining tables are 30 inches high, 18 inch tall dining chairs allow for a comfortable amount of legroom. As a general rule of thumb, there should be around 12 inches between a dining table and a seat.

What is a carver dining chair?

A carver dining chair is a kind of spool chair with legs rising above the seat level to frame the back and support the armrests. A theory about how carver chairs got their name is that the “master of the household” would sit at the head of the dining table and carve the meat that would be served for dinner. A widely reported origin story for the carver chair is that the name references a Pilgrim named John Carver, who was the founder of the Plymouth colony of Massachusetts in the United States. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage carver chairs.

What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?

The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?

The difference between an accent chair and a dining chair comes down to function and design. An accent chair usually goes in a seating area, and makers craft them with comfort in mind. As a result, most accent chairs feature cushioning and upholstery and are characterized by generous proportions. The purpose of a dining chair is to provide a place to sit while enjoying a meal. Usually, dining chairs are lighter and smaller than accent chairs for easy maneuvering. While they may have padded seats and backrests, dining chairs generally aren't as abundantly cushioned as accent chairs. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.

Do chairs have to match the dining table?

Dining room chairs and dining tables do not necessarily have to match.

How can you tell if a dining chair is antique?

To tell if a dining chair is antique, first look for markings that can help you identify the maker. You will normally find these under the seat. By using information published on trusted online resources, you can research the markings to learn who made the chair and when the maker was active. Any dining chair made 100 years ago or earlier is an antique. Another way to identify antique chairs is to examine their details closely. Most antique dining chairs are handmade, so you can expect to see subtle tool markings and slight irregularities. A lack of these characteristics may indicate that a dining chair is machine-made and less likely to be an antique. For assistance with dating your dining chairs, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of antique dining chairs.

Is it worth recovering dining chairs?

Yes, it may be worth recovering dining chairs. If the upholstery on your chairs is worn or stained, but the frames are in good condition, recovering them can restore their appearance and allow you to continue using your furniture for more years. However, there may be some downsides to recovering. Sometimes, the material and labor costs may be more than what you might pay for new chairs. Recovering some vintage or antique dining chairs may also diminish their value. If your chairs are vintage or antique, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or antique dealer to learn about the potential impact of replacing the fabric before you proceed with the recovery process. It is also a good idea to get estimates from a few professional furniture repairers to see how much the project will cost. Shop a large collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

What are the chairs at a dining table called?

The chairs at a dining table are generally just called dining chairs. Chairs without arms that go along the sides of a table are side chairs. Typically positioned at the ends of tables, dining chairs framed by arms are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.

What is a dining room chair called?

A dining room chair is called a dining chair. However, depending on its style, you may also see a dining chair referred to by other names. Armless ones placed along the long sides of rectangular and oval tables are side chairs, while the chairs with arms that often go at the heads of tables are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.

What is a dining chair with arms called?

A dining chair with arms is called a carver chair or elbow chair. It is a traditional dining chair with arms added to it for a more structured look and is a popular option for dining seats for a spot to comfortably rest your arms. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Are leather dining chairs worth it?

Many furniture lovers feel that leather dining chairs are worth it. Due to its natural beauty, leather can elevate dining rooms and add interest to interior designs by bringing in a new texture. Leather is also fairly easy to wipe clean, and top-grain and full-grain upholstery often hold up well to the effects of frequent use. Keep in mind that other factors contribute to the overall quality of a chair, such as its frame materials and construction methods. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of leather dining chairs.

Is leather good for dining chairs?

Whether leather is good for dining chairs is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find leather to be easy to wipe clean and appreciate its texture and appearance. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of leather dining chairs.

Should dining room chairs have arms?

Dining room chairs with arms require more space than armless ones.

What are the head dining chairs called?

What the head dining chairs are called varies. With many dining room sets, the chairs designed to go at the heads or ends of the tables are flanked by arms. As a result, people often refer to them as dining armchairs or dining end chairs. If the chairs lack arms, they're usually described as end chairs. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of dining chairs.

What is a good width for a dining chair?

A good width for a dining chair is generally considered to be 16 to 20 inches. Chairs within this size range typically provide enough space for most people to sit comfortably. Shop a collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Do my dining room chairs have to match my table?

No, your dining room table and chairs do not need to match. Coordinated colors and styles can add visual flair to a space, and is a great way to show off your personal style. Shop a collection of dining room tables and chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is the standard size of a dining room chair?

The seat of a dining room chair is typically 18 inches from the floor and 16 to 20 inches wide.

What type of fabric is best for dining chairs?

To pick a fabric for dining room chairs, one should consider durable, easy to maintain or stain-resistant materials. While choosing a fabric is a personal choice, the most commonly preferred upholstery materials include cotton and linen — both are prone to staining, however — as well as leather and synthetic fabrics such as polyester. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary dining chairs from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do I protect my woven dining room chairs?

To protect your woven dining chairs, try a fabric protection spray designed for the specific type of material. Follow the application directions printed on the bottle for best results. Also, wipe your chairs clean after every meal with a slightly damp cloth to reduce the risk of stains. On 1stDibs, find a range of woven dining chairs.

Traditional Dining Chairs

Dining Couch

Ultra Modern Chair

Antique Chippendale Furniture Dining Table

Seat Height 20

Knotty Chairs

Modern Exterior

Antique Table And 2 Chairs

Squiggle Chair

$2,800 / item

Ralph Lauren Noble Estate Carved Mahogany Dining Side Accent Chair Louis XV

By Ralph Lauren

Located in Lambertville, NJ

Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Home, Noble Estate, carved dining chair, mahogany dining chair, French style chair, cabriole leg chair, plaid wool chair, Ultrasuede seat, traditional dini...

Category

Early 2000s Louis XV Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Metal

4 William Yeoward "Limpton" Dining Side Chairs - In Green Velvet

$6,372 / set

4 William Yeoward "Limpton" Dining Side Chairs - In Green Velvet

Located in Barrowford, GB

Please take the opportunity to view the images provided carefully to confirm their fine, genuine condition and striking appearance. As beautiful as a traditional dining chair can pos...

Category

2010s Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Velvet

Pair of Swiss Handmade Farm House Carved Dining Chairs, Horgen-Glarus, 2 pcs

$2,380Sale Price / set|20% Off

Pair of Swiss Handmade Farm House Carved Dining Chairs, Horgen-Glarus, 2 pcs

By Horgen-Glarus

Located in Madison, WI

Absolutely stunning RARE pair of 2 Swiss Solid wood farm house traditional dining chairs, handmade, produced by Horgen-Glarus.

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Folk Art Chairs

Materials

Hardwood

$5,995 / set

Eight New Traditional Mahogany Adams Style Inlaid Dining Chairs by Leighton Hall

By Leighton Hall Furniture

Located in Suwanee, GA

These are new traditional mahogany dining chairs. Their design was inspired by dining chairs from the Regency period.

Category

2010s Philippine Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

$5,500 / set

$822 / set

$822 / set

$4,995 / set

Eight New Straight Leg Chippendale Style Dining Chairs by Leighton Hall

By Leighton Hall Furniture

Located in Suwanee, GA

These are new traditional mahogany dining chairs. Their design was inspired by the English Chippendale style straight leg dining chairs from the Georgian period.

Category

2010s Philippine Georgian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Modern Black Dining Chair with Black & White Upholstery and Lace-Up Back Detail

$1,600 / item

Modern Black Dining Chair with Black & White Upholstery and Lace-Up Back Detail

Located in Hialeah, FL

A distinctive lace-up back detail adds an artisanal touch, creating visual interest from every angle while elevating the chair beyond traditional dining seating. The matte black fini...

Category

2010s Brazilian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Wood

$1,070

Set of 4 antique English wooden Windsor pub/bistro chairs from 19th century

Located in Harderwijk, NL

A wonderful addition to both classic and contemporary interiors. While traditionally used as occasional or dining chairs, they are equally suitable as desk chairs or decorative state...

Category

Antique 19th Century Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Set of 6 Small Chair Tanoco, Duistt Fabric seat, Solid Mutenye Wood feet

$12,520 / item

Set of 6 Small Chair Tanoco, Duistt Fabric seat, Solid Mutenye Wood feet

By Duistt

Located in Leça da Palmeira, PT

The name tanoco pays homage to one of our artisans excellence and portuguese traditional craftmanship. Set of 6 Dining chairs.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Dining Room ...

Materials

Fabric, Wood, Upholstery

Contemporary Coffee Black Oak and Desert Velvet Armchair

$1,581 / item

Contemporary Coffee Black Oak and Desert Velvet Armchair

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Contemporary dining chair with armrests in Coffee Black Oak and Desert wool velvet, inspired by traditional Japanese stick chairs, the dining chair combines a sculptural oak frame wi...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Velvet, Oak

Regency, Four Dining Chairs, Painted Wood, Straw, Fabric, USA, 1940s

$4,000 / set

Regency, Four Dining Chairs, Painted Wood, Straw, Fabric, USA, 1940s

Located in Stamford, CT

Regency, Four Dining or Side Chairs, Painted Wood, Straw, Fabric, USA, 1940s Set of four painted wood traditional dining or side chairs having straw seats with removable upholstered...

Category

Vintage 1940s Regency Side Chairs

Materials

Materials

Aluminum

Sold

H 41.5 in W 25 in D 19 in

Set of Eight Traditional Dining Chairs from Spain, Mahogany

Located in Houston, TX

Handsome traditional style chairs mid century with shell carving at the crest and the knees of the Curved leg. Sturdy and without problems. The chair seats have been re-upholstered....

Category

Mid-20th Century Spanish Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Sold

H 30.5 in W 21 in D 21 in

Great Set of Milo Baughman Olive Burl Wood Chairs from Geoffrey Beene's Estate

By Milo Baughman

Located in North Miami, FL

They are slightly lower than a traditional dining chair, however extremely stylish and comfortable.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Chairs

Materials

Burl

Set of Eight Chippendale Style Dining Chairs by Hickory Chair

Sold

Sold

H 40 in W 23 in

8 Stanley Furniture Traditional Cherry Chippendale Dining Side Arm Chairs Vtg

By Stanley Furniture

Located in Dayton, OH

Set of eight Stanley Furniture dining chairs, circa 1980s. Made of cherry featuring traditional Chippendale styling, upholstered seat, and straight legs.

Category

Vintage 1980s Chippendale Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Cherry

Traditional Oriental Rosewood Set of Four Dining Chairs, Late 20th Century

Sold

H 38.98 in W 19 in D 19 in

Traditional Oriental Rosewood Set of Four Dining Chairs, Late 20th Century

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is a traditional, oriental rosewood set of four dining chairs, a carved suite of fine quality crafted in the late 20th century, circa 1980.

Category

Late 20th Century Chinese Chinese Export Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rosewood

6 Broyhill Vintage Mahogany Chippendale Style Dining Chairs Traditional 5265-81

Sold

Sold

H 30 in W 98.5 in D 49.25 in

Rectangular Dining Table with Oak Parquet Top and Brass Pedestal Legs

Located in Chicago, IL

Given the neutrality of the piece, it can accommodate a variety of modern or traditional dining chairs.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hungarian Dining Room Tables

Materials

Brass

Georgian Dining or Desk Chair

Sold

Sold

H 39 in W 18 in D 19 in

Set of 6 Custom Aluminum Biedermeier Style Dining Chairs

Located in Palm Beach, FL

A set of 6 custom Biedermeier style dining chairs. A traditional form in a more modern material.

Set of 14 Modern Black Cane Dining Chairs by Baker Kara Man

Sold

H 35 in W 21.5 in D 23.5 in

Set of 14 Modern Black Cane Dining Chairs by Baker Kara Man

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in North York, ON

Set of 14 modern black cane dining chairs by Baker Kara Mann. Made by Baker furniture designed by Kara Mann modern with traditional elements cane dining chair, walnut finished in bla...

Category

2010s American Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Metal

Set of 8 Modern Black Cane Dining Chairs by Baker Kara Man

Sold

Sold

H 32 in W 18.25 in D 18.25 in

Set of 6 Danish Midcentury Dining Chairs in Teak and Black Leather

By Erik Buch

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Set of six very stylish and traditional Danish midcentury dining chairs in the style of Erik Buch.

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Leather, Teak

Antique Set of 10 White Painted Gustavian Dining Chairs, Sweden, circa 1880

Sold

H 37.25 in W 18 in D 22 in

Antique Set of 10 White Painted Gustavian Dining Chairs, Sweden, circa 1880

Located in Round Top, TX

Set of 10 Swedish gustavian style dining chairs. Traditional fluted tapered legs with carved floral medallion accents.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Swedish Gustavian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood, Paint

8 Sculptural Form 'Oro' Dining Chairs by Raoul Guys, 1951, Airborne, France

Sold

Sold

H 36.5 in W 19.25 in D 20.75 in

Outstanding Set of 8 Vintage French Louis XVI Painted Chairs

Located in Highwood, IL

Stunning set of 8 vintage painted Louis XVI dining side chairs. This set is special, having clean uncluttered lines and classic carved ball-form rosettes at the corners, making them ...

Category

Vintage 1940s French Dining Room Chairs

Set of 6 Swedish Gustavian Style Painted Chairs with New Upholstery

Sold

H 36 in W 18.5 in D 19 in

Set of 6 Swedish Gustavian Style Painted Chairs with New Upholstery

Located in Troy, MI

Circa 1900 Swedish set of six dining chairs in traditional style with carved a gilded details.

Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Louis XVI Style Traditional Dining Room Set, Painted Table & 8 Chairs

Sold

H 30 in W 71.5 in D 45.5 in

Louis XVI Style Traditional Dining Room Set, Painted Table & 8 Chairs

Located in Stamford, CT

Louis XVI Style Traditional, Gustavian Dining Room Set. Part of our extensive collection of over forty dining tables and chair sets as seen on this site, thus why we are referred to ...

Category

Late 20th Century American Louis XVI Dining Room Sets

Materials

Wood

6 Traditional Henredon Acquisitions Green Leather and Mahogany Nailhead Chairs

Sold

H 36 in W 22 in D 25.5 in

6 Traditional Henredon Acquisitions Green Leather and Mahogany Nailhead Chairs

By Henredon

Located in Dayton, OH

6 Traditional Henredon Acquisitions green leather and mahogany nailhead chairs Henredon Dining Chairs Item#3400-27 3400-28 Henredon Acquisitions traditional leather dining c...

Category

20th Century Chairs

Materials

Leather, Mahogany

Traditional Oriental Rosewood Dining Table and Set of Six Chairs, Carved Suite

Sold

H 30.32 in W 61.03 in D 61.03 in

Traditional Oriental Rosewood Dining Table and Set of Six Chairs, Carved Suite

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is a traditional, oriental rosewood dining table and set of six chairs, a carved suite of fine quality crafted in the late 20th century, circa 1980.

Category

Late 20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Dining Room Sets

Materials

Rosewood

Set of 4 Ilmari Tapiovaara Style Spindle Back Dining Chairs

Sold

$48,400 / set

H 47 in W 21 in D 23 in

Set of 12 Adrian Pearsall Sculptural High Back Dining Chairs in Latte Bouclé

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in Saint Louis, MO

Large Set of 12 Mid Century Modern Dining Chairs designed by one of the top designers of the time Adrian Pearsall. Statement piece dining chairs that inject a high art sculptural ele...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bouclé, Walnut, Upholstery

H 35.44 in W 18.71 in D 16.54 in

Set of 10 Early 19th Century Regency Mahogany Dining Room Chairs

Located in Dublin, IE

An exceptional set of 10 IRegency mahogany dining chairs, The set comprising of eight side chairs and two armchairs, each with pierced arched top rail, carved with acanthus leaves an...

Category

Antique 19th Century English Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Set of 6 19th century Regency mahogany dining chairs

$1,763 / set

H 32 in W 19 in D 18 in

Set of 6 19th century Regency mahogany dining chairs

Located in Debenham, Suffolk

Set of 19th century regency mahogany dining chairs circa 1820. Good quality set of 6 regency dining chairs, made in fine mahogany. Carved back rests with further carved support rail...

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Mahogany

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Alma Upholstered Accent Chair in Faux Mohair Velvet

$1,890

H 39 in W 33.5 in D 36 in

Alma Upholstered Accent Chair in Faux Mohair Velvet

By Bloom Home Inc

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Introducing the Alma Accent Chair – a timeless piece crafted for comfort and style. Upholstered in a faux mohair style velvet, the color is our french havane, a warm honey, caramel t...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chairs

Materials

Metal

Exceptionally Rare Set of Eight George Nakashima 'Grass-seated Chairs' in American Black Walnut

$158,000 / set

H 27.56 in W 22.84 in D 20.08 in

Exceptionally Rare Set of Eight George Nakashima 'Grass-seated Chairs' in American Black Walnut

By George Nakashima, George Nakashima Studio

Located in Waalwijk, NL

George Nakashima, set of eight 'Grass-seated Chairs', American black walnut, sea grass cord, United States, early 1960s Through its pure form, thoughtful use of materials, and exqui...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Seagrass, Walnut

$1,650

H 29.53 in W 18.51 in D 18.51 in

Vico Magistretti for Cassina Carimate Dining Chairs in Leather & Dark Wood

By Cassina, Vico Magistretti

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Vico Magistretti for Cassina, 'Carimate' dining chairs, model '115' leather, stained beech, Italy, 1963 This large set of dining chairs belongs to the 'Carimate' line, one of Vico ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Leather, Beech

1930s Art Deco Set of Six Dining Chairs in Solid Oak

$9,750 / set

H 34.45 in W 19.49 in D 20.67 in

1930s Art Deco Set of Six Dining Chairs in Solid Oak

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Set of six dining chairs, solid oak, fabric, Europe, 1930s These six solid oak dining chairs date from the 1930s and show a clear Art Deco influence. The most distinctive feature is...

Category

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Oak

Milo Baughman Ivory Cream Semi-Circular Sectional Sofa for Thayer Coggin

$12,400

H 24.5 in W 172 in D 34 in

Milo Baughman Ivory Cream Semi-Circular Sectional Sofa for Thayer Coggin

By Milo Baughman, Thayer Coggin

Located in Saint Louis, MO

There can hardly be a more emblematic Mid-Century Modern sofa than the Milo Baughman semi-circular sectional sofa circa 1970s made by Thayer Coggin. The most well known and admired o...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery

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Traditional Dining Chairs For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of traditional dining chairs is available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, fabric and mahogany, all traditional dining chairs available were constructed with great care. We have 8 antique and vintage traditional dining chairs in-stock, while there are 5 modern editions to choose from as well. There are all kinds of traditional dining chairs available, from those produced as long ago as the 20th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. Traditional dining chairs bearing Regency or Mid-Century Modern hallmarks are very popular at 1stDibs. Leighton Hall Furniture, Broyhill and Hickory Chair Furniture Company each produced beautiful traditional dining chairs that are worth considering.

How Much are Traditional Dining Chairs?

Prices for traditional dining chairs start at $475 and top out at $12,500 with the average selling for $4,596.

Finding the Right Seating for You

With entire areas of our homes reserved for “sitting rooms,” the value of quality antique and vintage seating cannot be overstated.

Fortunately, the design of side chairs, armchairs and other lounge furniture — since what were, quite literally, the early perches of our ancestors — has evolved considerably.

Among the earliest standard seating furniture were stools. Egyptian stools, for example, designed for one person with no seat back, were x-shaped and typically folded to be tucked away. These rudimentary chairs informed the design of Greek and Roman stools, all of which were a long way from Sori Yanagi's Butterfly stool or Alvar Aalto's Stool 60. In the 18th century and earlier, seats with backs and armrests were largely reserved for high nobility.

The seating of today is more inclusive but the style and placement of chairs can still make a statement. Antique desk chairs and armchairs designed in the style of Louis XV, which eventually included painted furniture and were often made of rare woods, feature prominently curved legs as well as Chinese themes and varied ornaments. Much like the thrones of fairy tales and the regency, elegant lounges crafted in the Louis XV style convey wealth and prestige. In the kitchen, the dining chair placed at the head of the table is typically reserved for the head of the household or a revered guest.

Of course, with luxurious vintage or antique furnishings, every chair can seem like the best seat in the house. Whether your preference is stretching out on a plush sofa, such as the Serpentine, designed by Vladimir Kagan, or cozying up in a vintage wingback chair, there is likely to be a comfy classic or contemporary gem for you on 1stDibs.

With respect to the latest obsessions in design, cane seating has been cropping up everywhere, from sleek armchairs to lounge chairs, while bouclé fabric, a staple of modern furniture design, can be seen in mid-century modern, Scandinavian modern and Hollywood Regency furniture styles.

Admirers of the sophisticated craftsmanship and dark woods frequently associated with mid-century modern seating can find timeless furnishings in our expansive collection of lounge chairs, dining chairs and other items — whether they’re vintage editions or alluring official reproductions of iconic designs from the likes of Hans Wegner or from Charles and Ray Eames. Shop our inventory of Egg chairs, designed in 1958 by Arne Jacobsen, the Florence Knoll lounge chair and more.

No matter your style, the collection of unique chairs, sofas and other seating on 1stDibs is surely worthy of a standing ovation.

Questions About Traditional Dining Chairs

What type of fabric is best for dining room chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
The best fabric for dining room chairs is really a matter of preference. Those who are looking for maximum durability should opt for a smooth synthetic fabric that is liquid repellant. Shop dining room chairs in a variety of fabrics on 1stDibs.
What is a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
A dining chair is a chair used to provide seating while dining at a table. There are two main types: side chairs and armchairs. As the name suggests, armchairs feature integrated arms, and they typically go along the short ends of rectangular tables. Free of arms, side chairs are usually arranged along the sides of rectangular tables. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining chairs.
How tall should dining chairs be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Dining chairs should be around 18 inches tall. Since most dining tables are 30 inches high, 18 inch tall dining chairs allow for a comfortable amount of legroom. As a general rule of thumb, there should be around 12 inches between a dining table and a seat.
What is a carver dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A carver dining chair is a kind of spool chair with legs rising above the seat level to frame the back and support the armrests. A theory about how carver chairs got their name is that the “master of the household” would sit at the head of the dining table and carve the meat that would be served for dinner. A widely reported origin story for the carver chair is that the name references a Pilgrim named John Carver, who was the founder of the Plymouth colony of Massachusetts in the United States. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage carver chairs.
What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
The difference between an accent chair and a dining chair comes down to function and design. An accent chair usually goes in a seating area, and makers craft them with comfort in mind. As a result, most accent chairs feature cushioning and upholstery and are characterized by generous proportions. The purpose of a dining chair is to provide a place to sit while enjoying a meal. Usually, dining chairs are lighter and smaller than accent chairs for easy maneuvering. While they may have padded seats and backrests, dining chairs generally aren't as abundantly cushioned as accent chairs. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.
Do chairs have to match the dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Dining room chairs and dining tables do not necessarily have to match.
How can you tell if a dining chair is antique?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
To tell if a dining chair is antique, first look for markings that can help you identify the maker. You will normally find these under the seat. By using information published on trusted online resources, you can research the markings to learn who made the chair and when the maker was active. Any dining chair made 100 years ago or earlier is an antique. Another way to identify antique chairs is to examine their details closely. Most antique dining chairs are handmade, so you can expect to see subtle tool markings and slight irregularities. A lack of these characteristics may indicate that a dining chair is machine-made and less likely to be an antique. For assistance with dating your dining chairs, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of antique dining chairs.
Is it worth recovering dining chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
Yes, it may be worth recovering dining chairs. If the upholstery on your chairs is worn or stained, but the frames are in good condition, recovering them can restore their appearance and allow you to continue using your furniture for more years. However, there may be some downsides to recovering. Sometimes, the material and labor costs may be more than what you might pay for new chairs. Recovering some vintage or antique dining chairs may also diminish their value. If your chairs are vintage or antique, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or antique dealer to learn about the potential impact of replacing the fabric before you proceed with the recovery process. It is also a good idea to get estimates from a few professional furniture repairers to see how much the project will cost. Shop a large collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
What are the chairs at a dining table called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
The chairs at a dining table are generally just called dining chairs. Chairs without arms that go along the sides of a table are side chairs. Typically positioned at the ends of tables, dining chairs framed by arms are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.
What is a dining room chair called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
A dining room chair is called a dining chair. However, depending on its style, you may also see a dining chair referred to by other names. Armless ones placed along the long sides of rectangular and oval tables are side chairs, while the chairs with arms that often go at the heads of tables are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.
What is a dining chair with arms called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A dining chair with arms is called a carver chair or elbow chair. It is a traditional dining chair with arms added to it for a more structured look and is a popular option for dining seats for a spot to comfortably rest your arms. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
Are leather dining chairs worth it?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
Many furniture lovers feel that leather dining chairs are worth it. Due to its natural beauty, leather can elevate dining rooms and add interest to interior designs by bringing in a new texture. Leather is also fairly easy to wipe clean, and top-grain and full-grain upholstery often hold up well to the effects of frequent use. Keep in mind that other factors contribute to the overall quality of a chair, such as its frame materials and construction methods. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of leather dining chairs.
Is leather good for dining chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Whether leather is good for dining chairs is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find leather to be easy to wipe clean and appreciate its texture and appearance. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of leather dining chairs.
Should dining room chairs have arms?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Dining room chairs with arms require more space than armless ones.
What are the head dining chairs called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
What the head dining chairs are called varies. With many dining room sets, the chairs designed to go at the heads or ends of the tables are flanked by arms. As a result, people often refer to them as dining armchairs or dining end chairs. If the chairs lack arms, they're usually described as end chairs. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of dining chairs.
What is a good width for a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
A good width for a dining chair is generally considered to be 16 to 20 inches. Chairs within this size range typically provide enough space for most people to sit comfortably. Shop a collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
Do my dining room chairs have to match my table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
No, your dining room table and chairs do not need to match. Coordinated colors and styles can add visual flair to a space, and is a great way to show off your personal style. Shop a collection of dining room tables and chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the standard size of a dining room chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
The seat of a dining room chair is typically 18 inches from the floor and 16 to 20 inches wide.
What type of fabric is best for dining chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
To pick a fabric for dining room chairs, one should consider durable, easy to maintain or stain-resistant materials. While choosing a fabric is a personal choice, the most commonly preferred upholstery materials include cotton and linen — both are prone to staining, however — as well as leather and synthetic fabrics such as polyester. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary dining chairs from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do I protect my woven dining room chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
To protect your woven dining chairs, try a fabric protection spray designed for the specific type of material. Follow the application directions printed on the bottle for best results. Also, wipe your chairs clean after every meal with a slightly damp cloth to reduce the risk of stains. On 1stDibs, find a range of woven dining chairs.

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