Butterfly Chair Buying Guide — BKF Chair Styles Explained
The butterfly chair — also known as the BKF chair — is one of the most iconic furniture designs of the 20th century. With its distinctive sling-seat silhouette draped over an X-shaped steel frame, it brings mid-century modernism to any living space, garden, or studio. Originally designed in 1938 by Argentine architects Bonet, Kurchan, and Ferrari-Hardoy (hence “BKF”), the butterfly chair has remained a timeless classic for nearly 90 years.
This guide breaks down the different BKF chair styles, explores the appeal of leather butterfly chairs, and helps you choose the right one for your space.
What Is a Butterfly Chair?
The butterfly chair gets its name from the way the fabric or leather seat drapes over the frame, resembling butterfly wings. Also called the “sling chair” or “Hardoy chair”, a single piece of material forms both the seat and backrest, cradling the sitter in a relaxed, scooped position. The frame collapses flat for easy storage and transport — making butterfly chairs as practical as they are beautiful.
BKF Chair Styles: Which Is Right for You?
1. Classic Leather Butterfly Chair
The original BKF chair was designed with a leather sling. A full-grain leather butterfly chair is the premium choice — rich in texture, supremely durable, and developing a gorgeous patina over time. This is the choice for buyers who want a lifetime piece rather than a seasonal accessory.
2. Canvas and Cotton Butterfly Chair
Lightweight canvas versions are popular for casual use and outdoor settings. Affordable, but less durable than leather — the canvas sling will need replacing after a few years of heavy use.
3. Sheepskin Butterfly Chair
A luxurious variant, sheepskin butterfly chairs offer exceptional warmth and softness. Popular as statement pieces in living rooms and reading nooks, these are more decorative than everyday-use items.
4. Outdoor Butterfly Chair
Made with UV-resistant, weather-proof sling materials and galvanised frames, outdoor butterfly chairs withstand the elements — ideal for patios, terraces, and gardens.
What to Look for in a Leather Butterfly Chair
Frame Quality
Look for heavy-gauge steel (at least 12mm rod diameter) with a quality powder-coat finish. Welded joints are stronger than bolted connections. A solid frame supports the sling without flexing or creaking under regular use.
Leather Type
Full-grain leather is the gold standard — the strongest and most durable, developing a beautiful patina with use. Top-grain leather is slightly less durable but still excellent. Avoid bonded or split leather, which will crack and peel quickly.
Sling Construction
The leather sling should be secured with reinforced corners and quality stitching. Saddle stitching (hand-stitched with two needles) is the most durable method. Ensure the leather corners have metal grommets or heavy reinforcement where they meet the frame — this is where cheap chairs fail first.
Size Options
Butterfly chairs come in three main sizes: junior (for children or small spaces), standard (fits most adults), and large/XL (for a more lounge-like recline). Measure your space carefully — the butterfly chair takes up more visual space than its footprint suggests.
How to Style a BKF Chair
- Living Room: Position a leather butterfly chair next to a side table and floor lamp for a classic reading nook.
- Bedroom: A smaller BKF chair in a corner adds a sculptural element without overwhelming the room.
- Home Office: The butterfly chair softens the aesthetic of a workspace and provides a comfortable spot for breaks.
- Garden or Patio: Pair a weather-resistant sling with potted plants and an outdoor rug for relaxed alfresco seating.
Caring for a Leather Butterfly Chair
Leather sling chairs are low-maintenance: wipe down regularly with a slightly damp cloth, condition every 3–6 months with a quality leather conditioner, and keep out of prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading. You can remove the leather sling from the frame for deeper cleaning when needed.
Shop Leather Butterfly Chairs at Parrys Leather World
At Parrys Leather World, we offer handcrafted leather butterfly chairs made from premium full-grain leather. Each sling is hand-stitched and fitted with reinforced corners for years of comfortable, stylish use.
