Rattan is a type of palm that can be woven into furniture and stained just like wood, which means a rattan dining chair can be quite strong and come in a variety of styles and colors. It also means that the strength of the chair will depend significantly on the builder's skill. When choosing a rattan dining chair for your dining room, consider both the comfort and the strength of the chair, and be sure to note what the structural support of the chair is made of. Many feature wooden legs for added support, while others may be made entirely of rattan.
Start by deciding how much money you have to spend on the rattan dining chair, and whether you will be buying more than one chair for the dining room. Then consider the size of chairs you want or need; some dining rooms are larger than others, and size may or may not be an issue. In other dining rooms, however, the size of the chair can dictate how much free space is available in the room. The rattan dining chair will also need to fit comfortably underneath the table, so be sure to measure the size of your dining room table as well.
Once you have determined the size you need and the budget you have for purchasing the rattan dining chair, consider what color of chair you want, as well as other features you may want included with the chair. Some chairs, for example, come with seat cushions that enhance the comfort of the chair. Other models of rattan dining chair may feature rattan armrests, or unique shapes that enhance the overall comfort of the unit. The color of the chair will depend largely on how it is stained or otherwise painted. Consider the existing furniture in the dining room, especially the dining room table, and try to either match the color to that furniture, or find a color that complements the existing colors.
Rattan furniture is often used for outdoor patios and decks. If you intend to use your rattan dining chair for such purposes, be sure the chair has been treated to resist water damage as well as bug infestations. This may involve the use of some chemicals or protective sealants to ensure the furniture does not break down too quickly. Pay close attention to the legs of the chair as well, as they are often made of wood that can be especially susceptible to water damage.
