Refresh Oval Back Dining Chair Appearance with Slipcovers

Tired of staring at the same old dining chairs day after day? Adding slipcovers is an easy and affordable way to refresh the look of oval back dining chairs and give your dining space a mini makeover.

Slipcovers can instantly transform outdated or worn oval back dining chairs by providing a fresh pop of color, pattern, and texture. Read on to learn all about the benefits of using slipcovers on oval back chairs and get tips for selecting, installing, and caring for them.

Benefits of Using Slipcovers on Oval Back Dining Chairs

Here are some of the top reasons to use slipcovers on oval back dining chairs:

• Protect the chair upholstery from everyday wear and tear, spills, stains, and scratches from pets and kids
• Revamp the look of old, faded chairs and complement new dining room decor
• Choose from a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs to customize your dining space
• Change up the chair style seasonally or for special occasions
• Provide a quick and affordable furniture facelift without the cost of reupholstering

Oval back dining chairs tend to show signs of heavy use over time. The oval shaped backrest and curved seat make them prone to scratches, dents, and fading especially in high-traffic dining areas. Slipcovers are a great way to disguise existing wear while protecting chairs from further damage.

Without having to commit to a permanent fabric, slipcovers allow you to switch up your dining chair style to match changing decor or seasons. They provide design flexibility whether you want to go from a colorful summer look to rich fall hues or create a holiday or special event theme.

At a fraction of the cost of reupholstering, slipcovers can renew the look of older oval back chairs or complement newer seats. Custom covers tailored specifically for oval back chairs promise a perfect fit. With a little homework to find the right shape, fabric and size, it is easy to give your oval backs an instant upgrade.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fabric

With myriad fabric options on the market, keep these factors in mind when selecting an oval dining chair slipcover material:

• Durability: Look for tightly woven natural fabrics like cotton and linen or easy-clean synthetics like microfiber for long-lasting wear.
• Stain resistance: Polyester-cotton blends or synthetic microfibers offer resistance against spills and are easy to clean.
• Style: Choose on-trend prints and vibrant solids to introduce color or sleek textures like faux leather to add elegance.
• Comfort: Opt for soft, flexible fabrics like lightweight denim or stretch cotton sateen for a comfortable feel during extended dining.
• Climate: In hot climates, breathable linen or seersucker will stay cool while warm wool blends work for cold weather.

Coordinate slipcover fabric with your existing dining furniture finishes and room decor. Delicate silks or velvets make a refined statement while durable, family-friendly cottons stand up to high traffic areas.

Selecting the Right Slipcovers for Oval Back Dining Chairs

With numerous fabrics, colors, and shapes to consider, here are some useful tips for choosing the perfect oval back dining chair slipcovers:

Fabric Considerations for Oval Back Chair Slipcovers

• Opt for durable, high-quality fabrics like cotton, cotton-polyester blends, linen, or microfiber.
• Consider your lifestyle and opt for stain-resistant, machine washable fabrics if you have kids or pets.
• Match the fabric texture and pattern to your dining room decor, whether elegant damask or casual chambray.
• Select thicker medium to heavy-weight fabrics for a more tailored fit and longer wear.

Give those oval back dining chairs a fresh look with vibrant, whimsical or sophisticated designer fabric slipcovers. But don't sacrifice durability and easy care for pure style. Fabrics like easy-clean microfiber, family-friendly cotton and stain-resistant linen blends allow you to enjoy worry-free meals while keeping your chairs looking sharp.

Measurements Needed for Custom Oval Back Chair Slipcovers

• Measure seat width and length, back height, and arm width and height (if applicable).
• Add 1-2 inches ease to the measurements for a better fit.
• Provide details like chair style, leg shape, and cushioning when ordering custom covers.
• Preview fabric swatches against chair upholstery before choosing colors.

Since oval back chairs have a unique shape, opting for a made-to-order slipcover ensures it hugs every curve for a glove-like fit. Provide the craftsman doing the covers accurate measurements for key dimensions like seat width, back height and arm length if present. Leaving about an inch ease in the measurements provides wiggle room to smoothly slip the cover over the frame. Send pictures of the chairs for reference and always test fabric swatches before committing to yardage.

Style Options for Oval Back Dining Chair Slipcovers

• One-piece covers are simple, adjustable, and provide a smooth look.
• Two or three-piece covers allow mixing and matching of fabrics for a unique look.
• Look for slipcovers with elastic or ties at the bottom for a secure fit.
• Box pleat styles at the back and loose-fit fronts look elegantly tailored.
• Choose removable and reversible slipcovers for versatile styling options.

The "fit" element of a slipcover involves both its construction and fastenings. For oval back dining chairs, a one-piece cover with clever engineering to slope over the oval and adjustable ties for cinching offers convenience and a smooth finish. For more customization, opt for separate seat, back and arm pieces in complementary fabrics. Elastic hems and ties keep the cover firmly in place while box pleats lend a refined look. Seek out versatile covers that can be flipped and reversed to vary the style.

Installing and Caring for Slipcovers on Oval Back Chairs

Follow these tips for properly installing oval back dining chair slipcovers and keeping them looking fabulous:

Preparing Oval Back Chairs for Slipcover Installation

• Vacuum the chairs thoroughly to remove crumbs, dirt, and pet hair.
• Use a foam brush to clean crevices and ensure the surface is smooth.
• Remove cushions and tuck any stray upholstery fabric or batting inside the chair.
• Cover button tufts with small pieces of matching fabric so they don't create bumps on the slipcover surface.

Taking time to prep your oval back dining chairs before adding slipcovers will ensure a wrinkle-free fit and smooth appearance. Vacuum up any food debris, dust and pet fur so they don't get trapped under the cover. Use a foam brush to clean crevices if needed. Remove loose cushions but make sure any batting inside is neatly tucked away to prevent unsightly lumps. Disguise any button tufts for a streamlined shape.

• Carefully unpack slipcovers and allow any creases to fall out before putting them on.
• Refer to manufacturer's instructions for recommended placing and adjustment of the slipcover.
• Smooth out all wrinkles, adjust ties, elastic and gathers for a tailored fit.
• Use double-sided tape or fabric glue for a permanent slipcover installation.
• For a removable cover, use ties or ribbon to securely fasten the slipcover to the chair frame.