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Upholsterer

Upholsterers make, install and attach the springs, padding, linings and covers of furniture and vehicles. They may also make canvas products.

 

Tasks & duties

Upholsterers may do some or all of the following:

  • discuss requirements with customers
  • remove old covers from item to be recovered or repaired
  • remove and repair damaged or worn parts
  • calculate the amount of material required
  • draw up patterns or cutting plans
  • order material or parts from suppliers
  • remove parts that need replacing or repairing
  • cut materials to the right size and shape
  • sew the pieces together
  • attach springs, padding and covers to the furniture frames
  • fit carpet, linings and trims to the inside of vehicles
  • replace or repair vinyl/canvas-covered convertible car roofs
  • check the quality of finished work

 

Specialisations

Antique Furniture Upholster

Antique furniture upholsterers re-upholster antique furniture.

Vehicle Upholsterer

Vehicle upholsterers re-upholster seats in vehicles such as cars, boats or trucks.

 

Skills & knowledge

Upholsterers need to have:

  • knowledge of upholstery methods and materials
  • knowledge of furniture styles or vehicles, depending on their area of specialisation
  • knowledge of fabrics, threads, and colours
  • sewing and pattern-making skills
  • problem-solving skills
  • organisational skills
  • basic maths skills

 

Entry requirements

To become a furniture upholsterer you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Upholstery.
FITEC Furniture - for further training information

To become a vehicle upholsterer you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Motor Trimming.
New Zealand Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO) - for further training information

Upholstery and motor trimming apprenticeships are part of the Modern Apprenticeship scheme, which is for people aged 16 to 21.
Modern Apprenticeships website - for further training information

 

Secondary education

There are no specific secondary education requirements, but three years of secondary education in English, maths, technical drawing, clothing and/or textiles is preferred.

 

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job, as upholsterers need to keep up to date with new materials, threads, equipment and techniques.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for upholsterers includes:

  • work in the furniture industry
  • experience working on motor vehicles
  • sales work
  • factory work
  • sewing or work with leather or fabric

 

Related courses

Fashion Design
Furniture Upholstery and Renovation
Upholstery and Vehicle Trimming

 

For more information, please refer to Career Services.

 

Sponsors include

W. Holliday & Sons Ltd

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