Upholstery

What will the course Cover?

For continuers or new starters this course will teach you the upholstery techniques needed to re-upholster your own furniture. Both traditional and modern techniques are used. You will start on a simple chair, stool or drop in seat and progress on to more complex projects after completing the first item.

Who is this course for?

All levels including beginners, those with higher level projects will be encouraged to move to an advanced class.

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

No previous experience is necessary.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

Identify 6 upholstery tools and use them accurately and safely. Apply Health and Safety procedures in an upholstery workshop. Recognise the characteristics of 3 upholstery fillings. Identify 7 upholstery materials and specify their use. Produce an accurate cutting plan. Identify 3 suspension systems. Remove existing upholstery sympathetically. Assess frames for damage and repair. Select and attach webbing. Identify three staple types and state their use. Identify three tack types and state their use. Identify 3 hessian types and state their use. Use blind and top stitches to produce an even edge roll. Place fabric correctly with regard to the pattern and run of pile. Stitch by machine or hand as required. Evaluate projects completed.

How is the course organised?

Practical workshop. Demonstrations. Inividual and group work. Question and answer sessions.

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

Keeping workshop learning journal up to date, with written notes. Providing material for projects.

How will my progress be assessed?

Feed back from your tutor on project work and progress recorded on your Individual Learning Plan and Learning Journal.

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

Continue on this course to develop your skills further or take an upholstery – continuers course or use course documentation and photographs to contribute to a portfolio for application to higher level Upholstery courses in HE.

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 all the materials used. Some tools are provided for use in class. Your own top fabric and trimmings. A notepad and pen. A camera. Stout shoes. Please note: Any items brought onto the premises and/or worked on in class are done so at the owners’ own risk.

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 of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or Reception staff.