EXHIBIT 23.1
 
                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
    We  consent to  the incorporation by  reference in this  Annual Report (Form
10-K) of Shelby Williams Industries, Inc. of our report dated January 30,  1997,
included   in  the  1996  Annual  Report  to  Stockholders  of  Shelby  Williams
Industries, Inc.
 
                                          ERNST & YOUNG LLP
 
Atlanta, Georgia
January 30, 1997