Becoming a reupholsterer can be achieved through on-the-job training or by taking courses. Those interested in preserving antiques may need additional training. Reupholsterers can work independently or in a shop and require a workspace, tools, and a truck.
A person who wants to become a reupholsterer can pursue on-the-job training or take courses to prepare for a career in furniture maintenance and repair. People who have a specific interest in valuing and preserving antiques and museum pieces will need some additional training, such as a degree in art history or conservation. Reupholsterers may work with a variety of furniture types and fabrics in the course of their work, and job prospects in this field can be variable.
The traditional way to become a reupholsterer is to start working for an experienced professional to develop professional skills. He or she can provide instructions on how to evaluate furniture pieces, remove old upholstery, and replace upholstery and exterior upholstery. The job can include chances to work with a variety of furniture types and learn techniques used with furniture from different eras to make a reupholstery job blend seamlessly with the furniture’s look and style.
Another option is to go to school to become a reupholsterer. Programs at colleges and technical schools are available. Schools can provide structured opportunities for classroom learning on topics such as the history of textiles, different types of fabrics and furniture care. Additionally, students practice in a lab environment, under the supervision of instructors, to develop their skills. Upon graduation, students may receive a diploma or certificate to present as a professional credential when applying for work.
Reupholstering antiques, artwork, and historic items is a little more complicated. These jobs require not only restoring a furniture covering, but maintaining the appearance of the original piece. The reupholsterer may need to work with historic tools and materials and needs to be able to select or create appropriate upholstery and filling. For someone looking to become a reupholsterer at a museum or similar facility, a degree in textiles, art history or conservation is usually required.
Once someone has become a reupholsterer, it may be possible to work in a shop or independently. This job requires a reasonably sized workspace and truck for hauling, as well as a variety of tools. New reupholsterers may want to discover store-sharing or rental options to use as they begin to build a reputation and customer base. This can be cheaper than trying to maintain shop space and toolset independently early in a career.
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