UK Career Advice

Upholstery Assistant: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview

What is a Upholstery Assistant?

As an Upholstery Assistant in the UK, you'll aid in the process of transforming and reviving furniture, vehicle, and aircraft interiors by adding padding, fixing trimmings, and attaching new fabric or leather. This hands-on role is perfect for someone who loves working with their hands, enjoys being creative, and has a passion for bringing new life to old or worn-out items.

How do I become a Upholstery Assistant?

As an Upholstery Assistant in the UK, you'll aid in the process of transforming and reviving furniture, vehicle, and aircraft interiors by adding padding, fixing trimmings, and attaching new fabric or leather. This hands-on role is perfect for someone who loves working with their hands, enjoys being creative, and has a passion for bringing new life to old or worn-out items.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Upholstery Assistant?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Upholstery Assistant

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Knowledge of different types of fabrics and materials used in upholstery
  • Ability to use hand and power tools for cutting, sewing, and stapling
  • Attention to detail and precision in measuring and cutting fabrics
  • Good communication skills to work effectively with clients and team members
  • Physical dexterity and strength to lift and move heavy furniture pieces
  • Creativity and problem-solving skills to find solutions for unique upholstery projects
  • Time management skills to meet project deadlines and work efficiently
  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations in the workplace

Qualifications & Education

  • No formal academic requirements
  • Some employers may require GCSEs/S grades
  • Training provided off- and on-the-job
  • NVQs/SVQs in Upholstered Furniture Production available at Level 2

Career Path

Upholstery Assistant
Upholsterer
Furniture Designer
Interior Designer
Architect
Project Manager
Furniture Restorer
Antique Dealer
Auctioneer
Furniture Salesperson
Retail Manager
Furniture Manufacturer
Production Manager

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get into upholstery?

The best way to become an upholsterer in the UK is through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. There are not many formal programs that teach the required skills, but you can also learn valuable skills by watching online videos of how to replace fabric, redo furniture coverings, and sewing techniques.

Is upholstery a profession?

Yes, upholstery is a profession.

What does a upholstery assistant do?

An upholstery assistant in the UK is responsible for measuring furniture frames, preparing patterns, cutting fabric to pattern, fixing webbing and springs into seats, covering frames with padding and fabric using sewing machines, stitches, staples, tacks, and glue.

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