Occasional chairs, or as they there are sometimes called, exposed-wood chairs, are generally smaller than fully-upholstered chairs. Their frames are usually visible in a quality that is easy to discern even from a fair distance away. The usually have a solid feeling that results from the proper joining of frame parts, and they don't twist when you lift one corner. Suitable for a dining room or any type of formal room, they have clean, smooth joints with a minimum of nails and screws. Since they have fewer parts that are able to the bent and shaped, they are generally much stronger. If you have an old, occasional chair that you simply can't part with, there is always the option of using a fleece throw blanket or slipcovers instead of replacing the entire chair.

You'll also find occasional chairs come in a variety of different carved and elegant designs. With their solid feel, when you sit in one, you know that your back is well supported, and you can rely on its sturdiness even for a larger person. The frames, as a rule, have a smooth finish that complements other pieces in the room they are used in. For example, if you have a gorgeous den finished with mahogany wood, you might just as well choose to have mahogany occasional chair. A fleece throw blanket or even a mink blanket laid over the arm adds a tone of casual comfort, too.

You'll have plenty of fabric choices when it comes to re-upholstering and you also have a choice of wood finish, but since this is such a specialty chair, custom jobs usually take longer and you should plan for it to take 8 to 12 weeks to complete. If you're having one made specially for yourself, some of the more popular designs are French or Italian, and there are many styles to choose from. The majority of occasional chairs are from a European background in 18th century design. Regardless of what theme you would like to have for your room, remember that in addition to occasional chairs, you may have a sectional sofa or some other type of furniture, even a futon, that may need recovering or replacing. Before you purchase new furniture consider many options such as futon covers, slipcovers, duvet covers, and more.