Upholstery

Timetable, cost and enrolling

Our upholstery classes are suitable for beginners or those looking to extend their experience.

After the course you'll be able to:

• work on projects at home
• progress to work on more advanced pieces of furniture and modern or traditional techniques

What you'll learn

Beginners

You'll be introduced to this traditional skill.

We recommend your first project is one of the following, a:

• drop-in seat (a 1 person seat pad with no springs, like a dining chair)
• simple foot stool
• piano stool

You'll learn how to:

• strip the seat
• attach webbing
• stuff the seat
• measure and cover it with calico
• add upholstery fabric

You'll also learn upholstery techniques like:

• single and double piping
• hand-stitching
• stuff-over techniques

Improvers

Experienced learners are supported to develop their skills by working on a project of their choice, like chair with a 1 person seat and back pad. 

You'll learn:

• traditional upholstery techniques
• how to use a variety of specialised tools
• about fabric types and construction
• hand and machine upholstery sewing skills

You may also learn new skills like:

• pattern matching
• cutting trims
• buttoning

How it's taught

The course is taught by:

• demonstrations
• handouts and reference books
• support and advice while working on your projects
• online resources to support the demonstrations and show alternative methods
• one-to-one talks with the tutor
• group discussions

What to bring

Beginners should bring along a drop-in seat or stool to the first session.

If you do not have one, we have a limited number of suitable chairs (for a small cost). 

All other items would need to be seen and approved by the tutor first.

Experienced learners should bring along:

• their pre-approved item of furniture
• or a project that can be completed in the 10 weeks of the course or at home

Everyone should bring:

• a pen
• a pencil
• a notepad
• a camera or camera phone (useful for recording your progress)
• strong thick-soled shoes (no sandals or thin-soled shoes)

Buying materials from us

The workshop is equipped with all the upholstery tools you'll need.

There is a charge of £10 for essential materials used on the course, like tacks, glue and staples.

Other materials like springs, webbing, and stuffing will have extra charges.

You must supply your upholstery fabric when you're ready to top your item.