Upholstery - intermediate

About this course

Participants develop an individual upholstery project using techniques suited to its construction, including stripping down, re-upholstering and re-covering furniture. The course also covers Y and T cuts, cutting plans, sewing methods such as boxed cushions and piping, and basic wood restoration and frame repairs. Teaching combines practical demonstrations, formal instruction, workshop practice, individual tuition and peer feedback. Progress is recorded through tutor feedback on project work, an Individual Learning Plan and a learning diary.

What you'll learn

• Recognise materials used in traditional and modern upholstery
• Use ripping tools appropriately
• Produce an accurate cutting plan
• Apply re-upholstery and re-covering techniques to a furniture project
• Use a foam cutter safely where appropriate to a modern project
• Operate a sewing machine for required upholstery work

Is this course right for you?

This intermediate course is intended for learners who already have basic upholstery skills and knowledge and want to develop them further. Participation includes practical workshop work, individual tuition, peer feedback, note-taking and engagement with verbal, written and visual guidance.

• The techniques covered will depend on the construction and requirements of each participant’s furniture project.
• Learners are expected to maintain a workshop learning journal, using written notes and/or photographs.
• The course can accommodate different forms of participation and offers additional support for learning difficulties, disabilities, literacy, numeracy and speakers of other languages.

Before you go

• Bring a suitable piece of furniture for the project; its suitability is checked at the first session.
• Bring top fabric, trimmings, a notepad and a pen.
• Standard workshop tools and equipment are provided for use in class.
• Source materials for the project outside class.
• Vacuum and treat furniture with a proprietary moth spray before bringing it to the workshop.