Course overview

Course intent

Learn the skills and techniques of upholstery as you develop, enhance & improve your skills and knowledge. With the opportunity to experience and learn traditional and modern techniques as you explore the craft further, you will work on individual projects at your own pace, receiving personalised help and guidance from the tutor.

What will I learn?

You will learn:

• Material Knowledge: Choose and apply the correct fillings, upholstery fabrics, and sundries. Assess each item to determine whether traditional methods (hair, wadding, tacks, and stitched edges) or modern techniques (foam, glue, and staples) are most appropriate for the project.
• Design Techniques: Develop skills to transform furniture, focusing on both aesthetic and functional elements, with an understanding of colour and design principles.
• Production Process: Assess items for traditional or modern upholstery methods. Learn to strip old upholstery, evaluate frame condition and apply techniques like buttoning, piping cord, and box cushions.
• Craftsmanship: Focus on building attention to detail and quality in your work, ensuring each piece is well-made and durable. Learn to identify, evaluate, and measure suitable fabrics and materials, understanding how they will be best used in your upholstery projects.
• Studio Practice: Work in a safe environment, following best practices for tool safety and maintaining an organized and efficient workspace.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

Suitable for learners who want to learn upholstery as a beginner, or who if you have already completed a Stage 1 or Stage 2 Upholstery course.

Depending on the size and complexity of your project, you may not have time to reupholster your piece in one term.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

You need to bring:

• A sketchbook and pen
• An apron and closed toe shoes
• A small/medium item of furniture to be upholstered, such as a stool, dining chair, small armchair, or headboard.
• Any upholstery tools you may have.
• Your chosen fabric for the piece.

Additional Information:

• If your furniture contains fire-retardant materials, they may contain persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Due to new Health & Safety laws, you will need to dispose of these materials off the premises if removed from the furniture.
• There is no capacity within the class for sanding, painting etc – this will need to be done in your own time.
• Materials can be purchased from the centre at an additional cost.

For any queries, please email adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto Upholstery Workshops or explore further Arts & Crafts courses at SAL.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss any additional support needs you have with our Learner Support Coordinator, who will then contact you as soon as possible. They can discuss your needs with you and talk through the reasonable adjustments we may be able to offer. If you are enrolling within 14 days of the course start date, they may not be able to contact you before your first class.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where everyone is treated with fairness and respect.

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

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