Cowhide Bar Stools - Rustic Western Style
Want to add a touch of rugged, rustic flair to your home bar or kitchen island? Consider cowhide barstools. With their natural, organic look and feel, these distinctive seats bring unique texture and style to any space.
Made from genuine, hair-on cowhides, these stools feature detailed leatherwork and attractive hide patterns. The natural variations in each cowhide make every stool unique. From solids to brindles to spotty cow coats, the possibilities are endless.
Types of Cowhide for Upholstery
Cowhide stools are upholstered in real leather, not synthetic faux leather. This genuine hide comes in several types:
- Full-grain leather has the entire thickness of the skin, with natural imperfections that add rustic character.
- Top-grain leather is the outermost layer. It's been sanded and processed to remove flaws.
- Split-grain leather uses the skin's interior split layer. It has an attractive suede-like feel.
Of these, full-grain and top-grain leathers make the best choice for cowhide furniture. They're durable, supple, and develop a beautiful patina over time.
Hide Patterns & Texture
No two cowhides have the exact same patterning. From basic black and white spots to abstract painterly designs, this diversity lets you pick a truly one-of-a-kind stool.
Consider choices like:
- Tri-color brown, black and white hide
- Brindle mixes of brown and black
- Black, brown or white colored solid hides
- Spotted or patchwork hide mixes
The hair length also varies. Shorter hair feels velvety and smooth, while longer hair has a shaggy, textured feel. Hand-sanding and sponging creates different levels of distressing.
Vintage, Rustic Character
What creates that rugged cowboy vibe? It's the look and feel of well-worn, slightly distressed leather. Brands use techniques like fading, stone-washing, intentional scuffing, and hand-sanding to achieve this.
The hides develop natural markings, imperfections, wrinkles, and wear patterns over time. This adds to the vintage appearance.
Cowhide has an organic, raw beauty that creates inviting warmth and texture. The stools become softer and more supple with use. Their natural appeal complements both rustic and modern spaces.
Shape & Design Options
Cowhide stools come in diverse shapes to suit your needs:
Seat Styles
- Round seats
- Square or rectangular
- Saddle/curved seat shape
Back Styles
- Backless counter-height
- Low, mid or high backrests
- Armrests or armless
Adjustable Height
Look for stools with height adjustment. This lets you tweak the height between bar, counter or table height for perfect positioning.
Frames
Cowhide wraps around a supportive frame, available in:
- Steel - polished, brushed or antiqued
- Wood - natural, stained or painted
- Wicker, bamboo or rattan for casual texture
Quality corner blocks, joinery, and sturdy welds ensure durability. Plastic glides protect your floors.
Where to Use Cowhide Bar Stools
Here are some stylish spots to pull up a cowhide stool in your home:
Home Bars
Li dle up to your home bar or drinks nook on a cowhide seat. The rustic vibe pairs perfectly with your whiskey barrels, bar tools, and glassware displays.
Kitchen Islands
Use cowhide seating around kitchen islands for casual dining. Pop in a few stools to round out your island design.
Basements & Man Caves
Bring on the masculine, rustic charm with cowhide bar stools in your basement wet bar or man cave lounge.
Cabins & Lodges
Rustic cabins and lodges need cowhide! Use cowhide stools, chairs and benches to complement your wood floors, beams, and stone accents.
Styling and Decorating with Cowhide
Here are some interior design tips for showcasing your new cowhide pieces:
Mix Hide Patterns
Collect cowhide stools in varied colors and patterns. Arrange in a creative mix for lots of organic texture.
Add Pops of Color
Accent with colorful pillows and throws to spice up neutral cowhides. Rich hues like navy blue, crimson red and golden yellow create an inviting look.
Natural Textures
Pair cowhide with natural wood tables, stained shelves, jute rugs and reclaimed wood accents for a cohesive look.
Rustic & Modern
Blend your cowhide furniture with modern metals, concrete, sleek leather and polished wood pieces. The mix of old and new is on-trend.
Benefits of Cowhide Stools for Your Home
Why choose cowhide seating over traditional chairs and stools? Here are some excellent benefits:
Unique Style
Make an eye-catching statement with the natural beauty of cowhide furniture. The pieces add intriguing style you won't find with basic upholstered seats.
Eco-Friendly Material
Ethically-sourced cowhide is an organic, sustainable material. It's more eco-friendly than synthetic leather alternatives.
Brings in Texture
The natural grain and varied patterns of cowhide introduce cozy texture to your space. The hair and hide add organic depth.
Softens Modern Decor
Incorporate cowhide stools in modern rooms to soften the sleek lines and hard surfaces.
Budget-Friendly
Genuine cowhide costs less than comparable top-grain leather. The durable hide offers great value for the investment.
Shopping for Quality Cowhide Stools
Here's what to look for when selecting your cowhide barstools:
Reputable Brand
Seek out makers who focus on cowhide furniture. Top brands source high-quality hides and materials.
Detailed Stitching
Examine how the cowhide is attached and stitched to the frame. Clean, tight seams enhance durability.
Hide Thickness
Full-grain, 10-ounce or thicker hides prevent sagging and creasing. Thicker is more durable and supple.
Ethical Sourcing
Choose companies that use responsible hide sourcing and leather processing for an eco-friendly product.
Reviews
Read feedback from past buyers. This helps assess the quality, value, and service received.