During your first week as a beginner you could learn the basic principles of upholstery working on simple furniture to start with. This will include webbing, springing, stuffing, recovering and shallow buttoning. You will learn about upholstery tools and sundries. In addition you will examine fabrics, practice measuring up and cutting out. If you already have experience of the above either as a result of night classes or have attended one of our courses before, you may want to go on to more advanced upholstery. For those wishing to pursue this as a fascinating hobby we will be able to help you rebuild a piece of your choice, though we recommend that you start with a modest piece, that can be completed in a week. Just telephone for advice and we will be happy to help you. You can learn the complete re-building of furniture from the frame up - usually with sprung arms and back. This will include the practice of stitched-edge rolls, deep buttoning, the use of gimps and braids and cushion making - including making feather cushions from scratch. The number of students at one time is very small (usually up to a total of 3) and therefore the tuition is geared to your needs. Our courses are a week long in duration, but may be done consecutively i.e. one week, two or three and so on. For those planning a career in this business we offer a six-week Upholstery Workshop Diploma course which can be spread over any period up to 12 months. This diploma course is extremely popular. During this time we will take you step by step through the process necessary to rebuild dining chairs and armchairs, both traditional and modern. You will be able to make from scratch Ottoman boxes, bed-heads and footstools. The course also includes business advice, and we will be able to help you open accounts with recommended suppliers. Training and Enterprise Councils (TECS) offer grants to certain students. Their criteria are strict - and you are best advised to contact them in your local area to see if you are eligible.

We are proud to be members of the Association of Master Upholsterers - a national organisation founded in 1947 which requires the maintenance of standards of workmanship and materials. For those seeking membership we can advise on the process involved - but be assured they seek exceptionally high standards.