Upholstery

What will the course Cover?

You will work on a project that extends your skills and knowledge of traditional and modern techniques, to bring a piece of furniture back to life. Skills and principles covered during the course, include tacks and staples, Y and T cuts, cutting materials and creating a cutting plan, complete stripping down and re-upholstery, removing the top fabric and re-covering, sewing techniques such as boxed cushions, piping, capped seats and arms. Basic wood restoration, including cleaning, reviving, finishing, and small frame repairs will be taught.

Who is this course for?

This course is for those wanting to further develop their upholstery skills and techniques.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

This is an intermediate course for students with basic upholstery skills and knowledge to further develop their abilities. You will need to engage with guidance material and essential health and safety information, which is provided in different formats (verbal, written, and visual). You will be encouraged to take notes and take part in peer discussions, though we welcome different forms of participation. We are committed to accommodating diverse learning needs—please inform us of any specific requirements when enrolling.

How is the course organised?

There will be practical demonstrations, formal instruction, workshop practice, individual tuition and peer feedback.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

Keeping workshop learning journal up to date, with written notes and/or photos. Sourcing materials for projects.

How will my progress be assessed?

Feedback from your tutor on project work and progress is recorded on your Individual Learning Plan and learning diary.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Continue with another weekly course to develop your skills further. Use your course documentation and photographs to contribute to a portfolio for application to higher level AMUSF (Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishing) qualification.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

You will need to bring your own piece of furniture and pay for materials used. Standard workshop tools and equipment are provided for use in class. You should bring your own top fabric and trimmings, as well as a notepad and pen. Important notes: So that furniture items can be accommodated, the suitability should be made in discussion with the tutor at the first session. Vacuum and treat items with a proprietary moth spray before bringing them to Macbeth to reduce the risk of moths being brought into the workshop.

What support is available?

Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Details are available in the Course Guide or from teaching or reception staff.

Tutor - Mariola Calvo-Montero

Mariola is an experienced upholstery tutor with over 8 years of teaching and hands-on upholstery work. she specialises in traditional and modern upholstery techniques, helping students of all levels develop practical skills and confidence. She has taught at Macbeth Centre in Hammersmith for 6 years and is passionate about preserving craftsmanship while encouraging creativity. Her classes focus on creating a supportive, hands-on learning environment where students can bring their projects to life.