Furniture Upholstery

About this course

The course introduces traditional upholstery through practical exercises, tutor demonstrations, handouts and group discussion. Participants work on a suitable small-scale furniture project, such as a dining chair, footstool or stool, developing the process from removing existing upholstery and preparing the frame through to finishing. Teaching covers upholstery tools, materials and construction methods, including webbing, hessian, horsehair, calico, tacking, stuffing, stitched and rolled edges, fabric application and trims. Learners are also encouraged to document techniques, material samples and research in a workbook.

What you'll learn

• Use upholstery hand tools and materials safely in a workshop environment
• Remove existing upholstery from a chair efficiently and safely
• Apply traditional upholstery methods including webbing, hessian, stuffing and stitched edges
• Finish a piece with top fabric, bottom cloth and suitable trims
• Assess the sustainability of reupholstering existing furniture frames and materials

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners seeking an introduction to traditional upholstery and improvers wishing to practise their skills. No previous experience is required. Practical work involves a level of strength and mobility, and participants need a suitable project confirmed before enrolment.

• Suitable for both beginners and improvers
• Participants work on an individual furniture project
• The practical work requires some strength and mobility
• A project must be checked for suitability before enrolment

Before you go

• The College provides all equipment and tools.
• Some materials may incur an additional charge.
• Participants should check their project’s suitability with the tutor before enrolment.
• Storage capacity in the studio is limited.