Upholstery Vocational Training

Like the IT training department, clients learn their craft at their own pace with learning times extended to accommodate differing health needs and levels of stamina. Under the supervision of a Master Upholsterer, who manages the project, clients can work toward gaining formal qualifications endorsed and examined by the Master Upholsterers Guild. Up to 40 clients attend the course each week. Clients gain work experience repairing old and modern furniture. There is never a shortage of commissions because clients satisfy customer demands for quality work. The act of restoration/ employment is linked with improved mental health. Sewing, carpentry, estimating costs and materials are all practical transferable skills that can be used in other areas of production such as curtain making, soft furnishings and coach trimming.

Examples

Click on the pictures below to see some chairs upholstered or repaired by clients at Oakleaf.