Overview
This hands-on three-day upholstery course is ideal for beginners and enthusiasts wanting to learn the traditional craft of making wool and hair-filled tick mattresses. Now often known as "French mattresses," these were once common across Europe with various natural fillings before sprung mattresses became popular. Participants will gain practical skills in stuffing, tufting, and stitching, using high-quality materials to create a durable and comfortable mattress of an approximate size of 100cm x 50cm. Prepared upon a stretcher frame in the traditional manner, the course gives instruction on how to make much larger full-size mattresses utilising the skills learned in class.
About the Tutor
With almost 30 years of experience, Gareth has worked across various aspects of upholstery, furniture and bed making. He founded his own company in 2004 and now serves as Director and tutor at the British School of Upholstered Furniture, where he teaches the AMUSF Diploma and Advancements in Traditional Upholstery diploma with the Guild of Traditional Upholsterers. Gareth is also the course writer for Upholstery Education and, in 2023, was awarded the prestigious Master Upholders Certificate. Known for his approachable, tailored teaching style, Gareth shares his passion for upholstery with students across the UK and beyond.
Skill level required
A basic level of upholstery skill would be benefiicial
What to bring
A basic upholstery tool kit will also be required. Students will be emailed a month before the course with requirements.
Dates: 7-9 October 2025 9.30am-4.30pm
*Please note that by purchasing a ticket to this course, you also qualify for free entry to the main Festival of Upholstery on the 10th & 11th October 2025. Please ensure you have completed the order form fully when you book your course tickets, if you wish to attend. Please also bring with you, a copy of your ticket , together with one form of photographic identificiation. Full details of the event can be found at: www.festivalofupholstery.co.uk
