How to Make an Egg Chair

An egg chair is a stylish and uniquely designed piece of furniture with a cocoon-shaped structure, offering comfort and modern aesthetics. Its distinctive shape makes it a versatile addition to any indoor or outdoor space, creating a cozy and inviting seating experience.

This iconic chair seamlessly blends functionality with contemporary design, making it a popular choice for homeowners and designers alike. 

By learning how to make an egg chair, you can enjoy numerous benefits, including the freedom to customize the design to your preferences. From selecting the materials and colors to tailoring the size and style, creating your own egg chair allows you to achieve a personalized result while saving on costs compared to store-bought options. Additionally, the process provides the rewarding experience of a hands-on DIY project. 

This article will guide you step-by-step through the process, ensuring your custom egg chair is both durable and comfortable. 

Choosing the Right Materials 

When creating your custom egg chair, selecting the right materials is crucial for achieving the desired look, comfort, and durability. Here’s a breakdown of the key materials you will need:

Frame Materials 

• Wicker or Rattan: Ideal for a classic, timeless appearance. These materials offer a lightweight yet sturdy structure and are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use if adequately treated. 
• Metal Tubing: Consider using metal tubing for a modern, industrial design. This durable material can hold significant weight, making it a secure choice. 
• Wood: Wood is an excellent option for a natural or rustic aesthetic. It can be shaped and finished to match your style, but ensure it’s treated to withstand wear and tear, especially for egg chair outdoor.

Cushioning and Upholstery 

• Foam Padding: Use high-quality foam for the cushions to ensure maximum comfort. Opt for thicker padding for a cozier seating experience. 
• Weather-Resistant Fabric: If the chair will be placed outdoors, choose fabrics designed to resist moisture, fading, and UV damage. 

Additional Hardware 

• Screws, Bolts, and Welding Equipment: Necessary for securing the frame, especially for metal-based designs. 
• Hanging Chain and Swivel Hook: Choose sturdy hardware specifically rated for the weight capacity if you’re crafting a hanging egg chair. 
• Base Stand: If you’re making a freestanding chair, select or construct a base stand that complements the chair’s style while providing stability. 

By carefully considering these materials, you’ll ensure your egg chair is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Designing the Egg Chair 

Selecting a Style 

When designing your egg chair, you must first decide between a hanging or freestanding style. A hanging egg chair offers a unique, floating sensation and is ideal for spaces with strong ceiling support or outdoor frames. On the other hand, a freestanding egg chair is more versatile, as it comes with its own base, making it easy to reposition.

Another consideration is the frame design—open-weave frames create a light, airy aesthetic perfect for modern or outdoor settings. In contrast, solid frames provide a more enclosed, cocoon-like feel for maximum privacy and comfort. 

Creating a Template 

Start by sketching out the chair’s dimensions, keeping both functionality and comfort in mind. Aim for a frame height and width that ensures the chair can adequately accommodate various body sizes. The depth of the seat is equally essential—choose dimensions that allow the user to sit back comfortably while still being supported. A well-drafted template will streamline the building process and ensure a balanced design. 

Safety Considerations 

Safety should be paramount in your design. Ensure the chair can support at least 250 lbs by selecting durable materials and reinforcing the frame in critical points. Use top-rated hardware and test connections for hanging chairs to guarantee stability and security. A sturdy and well-thought-out construction ensures both safety and longevity. 

How to Make an Egg Chair: Building the Frame 

Step 1: Cutting and Shaping the Frame 

Cut curved panels to form the classic egg shape if you’re working with wood. Use a jigsaw or a bandsaw for precision and smooth edges. Once the panels are ready, assemble them using wood screws and high-quality wood glue for added stability. Sand down any rough edges to ensure a safe and polished finish. 

For metal frames, use bendable tubing to create the egg shape. Specialized tools, such as a pipe bender, are essential for forming smooth, even curves. After achieving the desired shape, weld the joints securely to ensure the structure is stable and resistant to stress. Smooth out welded areas with a grinder to avoid sharp edges or imperfections. 

Step 2: Assembling the Egg Shape 

To ensure structural integrity, add crossbars to the frame as support. Place these crossbars strategically to reinforce areas that will bear the most weight. Use strong screws or welds, depending on your material, to secure everything in place. Inspect for weak points for both wood and metal frames and reinforce them with additional supports or brackets. This step is vital to creating a sturdy final product. 

Step 3: Attaching a Base or Hanging Mechanism 

Install a robust base made of either metal or wood for freestanding chairs. The base should be wide enough to prevent tipping and capable of securely holding the egg-shaped frame. 

Attach a durable hanging chain to the top of the frame for hanging chairs. Secure the chain to a ceiling beam, rafter, or dedicated hanging stand. Double-check all connections and test for stability to ensure the safety of the final design.

Weaving or Covering the Frame 

If Using Wicker or Rattan 

When working with wicker or rattan materials, it is essential to soak them in water prior to use. This step increases flexibility, making weaving these materials tightly around the frame easier. Begin by submerging the wicker or rattan in water for at least 20 to 30 minutes or until it becomes pliable. Once the material is ready, start weaving it onto the frame, ensuring a tight and consistent pattern.

This not only improves the strength of the finished product but also contributes to its visual appeal. Work methodically, securing the ends of the material with knots or by tucking them neatly into the weave for a polished look. Ensure the weave is uniformly tight across the entire frame for durability and stability. 

If Using Metal or Wood 

For frames made of metal or wood, prepping the surface is critical. Sand the frame thoroughly to remove rough edges, splinters, or imperfections, creating a smooth surface ready for covering. Once smoothed, you can opt to wrap the frame with rope, fabric, or upholstery material for added comfort and aesthetics. Rope wrapping creates a rustic or nautical charm, while upholstery or fabric can add a modern and cozy touch.

Secure the material tightly as you go, using strong adhesives, knots, or staples as required, ensuring it stays in place over time. This process enhances the chair’s comfort and appearance and protects the frame from wear and tear. 

Adding Cushioning and Comfort 

Choosing the Right Cushion Foam 

Selecting the appropriate cushion foam is essential for achieving the right balance of support and comfort. High-density foam is an excellent choice for ensuring durability and firm support, particularly for chairs intended for frequent use. For outdoor furniture, consider using waterproof or quick-drying foam to withstand moisture exposure and varying weather conditions. These specialized foams ensure longevity and maintain their structure even after extended use. 

Covering the Cushion 

To enhance both functionality and aesthetics, sew a custom fabric cover for your cushions. Choose fabrics that complement the chair’s design and intended use, such as weather-resistant materials for outdoor furniture or softer textiles for indoor seating.

Secure the cushions in place by attaching Velcro strips or ties to prevent slipping. These features make it easy to remove the cover for cleaning or replacement, ensuring your chair remains fresh and inviting over time. 

Optional: Adding Throw Pillows 

Consider incorporating throw pillows for added comfort and a touch of personal style. These can provide targeted support for the back or neck while allowing you to experiment with colors, patterns, or textures that match your decor. Throw pillows are a versatile option that elevates the overall look and feel of your seating. 

Painting and Finishing Touches 

Painting the Frame 

Choosing the right paint or stain for your chair’s material is essential to achieving a polished final look. For wooden frames, consider using a stain to highlight the natural grain or opt for spray paint to create a bold, uniform color. Metal frames often work best with rust-resistant spray paint to ensure long-term durability and a smooth finish.

Before applying paint or stain, sand the frame lightly to remove any rough spots or old coatings. Once painted, complete the process by applying a protective sealant. This extra layer preserves the color and protects against wear, moisture, and UV damage, making your chair resilient for years. 

Decorative Elements 

To personalize your chair further, incorporate decorative touches that reflect your style. Wrapping sections of the frame with macrame, rope, or twine adds a handmade, rustic charm and enhances grip. Additionally, affix LED strips or fairy lights along the chair’s edges for a warm and inviting glow, perfect for night-time use. These small yet impactful details elevate your chair’s design, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing while transforming it into a standout piece of furniture in any setting. 

Final Assembly and Safety Check 

Once all the decorative and functional enhancements are complete, performing a thorough final assembly and safety check is crucial. Start by testing the chair’s weight capacity to ensure it can comfortably support the intended load without strain or instability.

Gradually apply weight to verify that the materials, welds, and joints hold together securely. Inspect every screw, bolt, and connection to confirm they are tightly fastened and free from damage or looseness. Please pay special attention to any welded areas, ensuring they are solid and without cracks. 

Finally, position the chair in a stable and safe location. Ensure the surface underneath is even, preventing wobbling or tipping. If the chair will be used outdoors, place it on a level patio or a sturdy ground surface. By taking these precautions, you’ll create a safe and enduring piece of furniture ready for regular use. 

Conclusion 

Building a durable and stylish egg chair involves several key steps, from selecting high-quality materials to carefully assembling and decorating the frame. By following this guide on “how to make an egg chair,” you’ll be equipped to construct a piece of furniture that combines comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

Remember, this is your chance to personalize the design by using materials and colors that reflect your unique style. Most importantly, always prioritize safety during construction by thoroughly inspecting the finished chair and ensuring its stability. With creativity and attention to detail, your egg chair will become a cherished addition to any space.