Intro to Upholstery

Join us for a fascinating day of discovery as we delve into the fabulous world of upholstery. We will show you how to use all the specialist tools to strip out and untack old upholstery and how to recover a simple modern chair seat to transform your tired furniture into raving beauties.

One of the modules that professional upholsterers have been examined on is the process of making a modern ‘drop-in’ dining seat. You will learn about foam and how to select the correct density and compression rate. By building up foam and applying the additional layers of calico and polyester, everyone learns how to complete the project by tensioning top and bottoming fabric with confidence. In a professional upholstery company, the apprentice learns by making many drop in seats before being let loose on more complicated items.

We begin the day by learning how to strip out old upholstery. You will to learn how to use traditional specialist hand tools to remove  staples and tacks from upholstered furniture to prepare for replacing the upholstery.

You will be given a simple wood panels for you to cover and take home and learn the full process of covering on, but if you have a tatty covered stool, or dining chair drop in seat you would like to start work on, we would be happy to show you how to unpick the tacks or staples from it. It is always very enjoyable to see what ‘lies beneath’. It will not be possible to finish recovering your project during the one day workshop, but we will advise you on the next steps and you will gain confidence to tackle simple jobs by working on the wood panel we provide. At the end of the day, you will have a chance to learn how to web a frame using a hand web stretcher with magnetic hammer and tacks.

The use of all tools and materials is included.

You can use a fabric of your own, or use one of our selection of upholstery fabrics at the centre.

We also have a selection of tools and materials that we use in our workshops for sale at the centre for you to continue your new hobby at home.

Jane Kimber

General Information

You will receive a courtesy reminder by email 1-2 days before the workshop/course begins.

Refreshments

Coffee, tea and biscuits are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you or visit a nearby venue to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access or special needs, please contact us confidentially in advance by email info@thegoodlifecentre.co.uk. There is a small step to the entrance, and the toilet is on the ground floor.

All sewing workshops and occasionally lampshade making, tassel making and bookbinding workshops are located on the second floor. There is no lift access.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, The Goodlife Centre reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions

View our Terms and Conditions here.