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Upholsterer

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Upholsterers pad and cover furniture such as chairs and sofas. Their work includes preparing items for upholstery, selecting materials, making patterns and templates, measuring, cutting and tacking or sewing material to furniture, and adding trimmings. They may use tools such as staple guns, magnetic hammers, cutters and upholstery needles. Some upholsterers discuss the work to be carried out with their customers and offer relevant advice.

They usually work 35 to 40 hours a week, from Monday to Friday. Self-employed upholsterers or those working for small businesses usually have varied working hours, depending on the volume and type of work they undertake. Overtime may be required when meeting deadlines. They work in factories, workshops, or occasionally, customers' homes. Protective clothing is sometimes worn, such as overalls, masks or gloves.

Salaries range from £14,500 for new entrants, to £30,000 or more for experienced and specialist upholsterers.

An upholsterer should:

• have normal colour vision and be good at working with their hands
• have strong concentration skills
• be patient, methodical and safety-conscious
• be able to use upholstery tools and machinery
• have good communication skills
• enjoy carrying out detailed work.

Jobs are available throughout the UK, although there is strong competition in some areas where applicants outnumber vacancies. Employers include furniture manufacturers, companies making seats (for buses or clubs, for example) and small businesses. Many people in this profession are self-employed.

There are no set entry requirements, although some employers prefer applicants with GCSEs/S grades. Specific courses/qualifications include degrees and HNDs in furniture conservation, restoration, fine crafts, fashion and textiles. Courses include assessment, practical work and sometimes work placements. There is no upper age limit for entry.

NVQs/SVQs are available in subjects including Upholstery and Restoration. Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.

Training may be carried out in the job.

Upholsterers working for manufacturers or large organisations may gain promotion to supervisory or managerial roles. Those who are self-employed progress by establishing a strong reputation and obtaining regular work from customers.

 

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