Upholstery
Upholstery is the skill of covering furniture like chairs, sofas, and ottomans with fabric, leather, or other materials to make them both functional and attractive. It includes adding padding, springs, and fabric coverings to furniture frames. This trade combines traditional handcraft methods with modern techniques to repair, restore, or create new furniture pieces. Think of it like giving furniture a complete makeover - from the inside padding to the outer fabric covering.
Examples in Resumes
Restored antique chairs using traditional Upholstery techniques
Managed custom Upholstery projects for high-end residential clients
Led workshop team in commercial Upholstery and Reupholstery services
Typical job title: "Upholsterers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Upholsterers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach restoring a valuable antique chair with damaged springs and frame?
Expected Answer: A senior upholsterer should discuss assessment process, historical preservation techniques, spring-tying methods, and material selection appropriate for the period piece, while explaining how they would document and maintain the piece's value.
Q: How do you manage a workshop and train junior upholsterers?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of workflow management, quality control processes, teaching techniques, and how to effectively delegate tasks while maintaining high standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when selecting fabrics for different furniture pieces?
Expected Answer: Should discuss durability ratings, pattern matching, fabric direction, usage environment, cleaning requirements, and how these factors affect furniture longevity.
Q: Explain your process for calculating material requirements for a project.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain measuring techniques, accounting for pattern matching, calculating yardage needs, and estimating other materials like foam, springs, and trim.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools are essential for upholstery work?
Expected Answer: Should name and explain the use of basic tools like staple gun, webbing stretcher, tack hammer, scissors, and measuring tools.
Q: How do you ensure proper padding distribution in a seat cushion?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic cushion construction, proper layering of materials, and techniques for even distribution of filling materials.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic sewing and cutting techniques
- Simple furniture stripping and padding
- Basic tool handling
- Pattern matching fundamentals
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex pattern matching
- Spring installation and repair
- Customer service and consultation
- Material estimation and costing
Senior (5+ years)
- Antique restoration expertise
- Workshop management
- Custom design solutions
- Training and supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with different fabric types
- Lack of basic sewing skills
- Unable to demonstrate knowledge of proper tools and their uses
- No understanding of furniture construction basics
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