Upholstery - beginners/improvers

What prior knowledge, experience and qualifications will I need?
No prior knowledge is required to enrol for this course- it is aimed at either complete beginners to the subject, learners with very little experience, or returning learners who wish to continue to develop their skills.

Learning Goals:
Gain the practical skills required to upholster a simple stool or drop-in seat chair. To assess & repair frames, as applicable, and to plan & calculate the type and quantities of materials required To demonstrate the correct and safe use of specialist tools and equipment. New learners will begin work on a 2nd project- returners will begin, progress or complete a more complex project as applicable.

What teaching methods will the tutor use?
The tutor will use a range of teaching methods during the course which will include the following: Demonstration - both group and individual, one to one tuition, group work, assessment of progress, observation, and discussion / question & answer sessions.

What assessment methods will the tutor use?
The course tutor will use a range of methods to assess progress on the course. These may include: Observation, completion of an Individual Learning Plan which will be updated regularly, evaluation of work samples, and question & answer sessions.

Will extra work be required outside the class times?
Extra work is not essential but will enable learners to practice techniques and progress their projects at a faster pace.

What materials will I need for the course and how much will they cost?
You will need to source and bring in your small item of furniture to work on for the course, and you will also need to purchase your top fabrics and upholstery goods & sundries which are not covered by the basic materials fee. The tutor will provide further information at the first session, but overall costs will be dependent on the quantity and type of materials used.

What do I need to bring to the first class?
If you are a beginner, please do not bring anything other than the recommended furniture items to the first session! You will also need a tape measure, fabric cutting scissors (the tutor will advise on these), a pen, pencil, permanent marker pen & notebook, plus an A4 folder/wallet for notes and handouts. A phone/camera is also very useful for recording new techniques & details for future reference as your work progresses. Returning learners should bring their current work or new project.

Options when finished
The department also offers a range of related Soft Furnishing courses, that will develop your sewing and cushion/seating construction skills. Information about progression courses is available through the tutor, the Curriculum Leader or the online Adult Learning Lewisham programme

Additional information
Please note that there will be a scheduled 45-minute break during the class, and a 2 week half-term break in weeks commencing 28th October and 4th November. You are able to leave your piece of furniture at the centre between sessions whilst you are attending a class, and there is a drop-off area immediately outside the classroom where you can park and unload. However, we will ask you to remove your item at the end of a full term. Please be aware that we are never able to accommodate items of furniture larger than a standard armchair, or more than one item per learner at any given time, due to limited storage facilities. The course fee also includes a charge for basic construction materials, sundries and maintenance of tools & equipment.

For general enquiries and course availability information call 0208 314 3300. For more detailed information and guidance about the course: