Quality-Built Upholstered Club Chairs

Frame, foundation, and fabric are important

It's true that a club chair looks great, but how will it hold up?    

As you look at various club chairs, you will notice there's a difference in how they are built. High quality upholstered club chairs are built solid from the inside out. The type of wood used and the techniques used in making upholstered club chairs can vary greatly.

Solid frames

Club chair frames are made out of several types of wood.  Usually a hardwood or plywood of some variety.  Kiln-dried hardwood, soft or hard plywood, and strand board are often used.  High quality upholstered club chairs are made out of the hardest woods like kiln-dried hardwood and hardwood plywood.  The harder woods can hold hardware and wood pegs or dowels for years.  Also look for frames that have joinery that is glued or screwed at the stress points of upholstered club chairs.

A high quality foundation

The foundation of an upholstered club chair is important too.  Also called the seat deck, this is the area that supports the cushions. Eight-way, hand tied coil spring construction has been the standard for quality built upholstered club chairs for years. During construction, each spring is placed into the foundation by hand and secured by interlocking knots. Some club chairs made with steel springs can also offer a high grade of quality.

Cushion density

The type of material used in filling the cushion of an upholstered club chair can make a big difference in how long the chair holds up.  Polyurethane foam is often used in filling club chair cushions.  It can be used alone or with other materials like cotton, polyester or even down filling.  The polyurethane foam comes in many varieties and is judged by its density. Look for a density rating of 1.8 to 2.5 pounds per cubic foot.

Club chair upholstery
 
Coverings for your upholstered club chair are nearly limitless.  Remember, you can re-upholster just about any club chair with the fabric of your choice. First, you will have to choose between a natural or synthetic fiber. Of course, many fabrics are blended for strength, convenience, and durability.  A synthetic fabric will hold up well in harsher environments.  If you have kids and pets you may want to look for a fabric that is mainly synthetic. Consider both how the fabric appeals to you and the type of use your upholstered club chair will get when determining your fabric choice.
Checking these factors will help you select a high quality upholstered club chair that will give you pleasure and comfort for many years.

More information on club chairs