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Enrolments for September are now open
Courses starting from January 2026 will be available to enrol later in the year.

Upholstery Workshop - Improvers - Term 1  

Visual of the course

Description


A workshop for all abilities, but this is aimed more towards returning learners. Learn a variety of skills using traditional methods, eg webbing, springing, bridling, fitting top covers and buttoning. Project will be your own choice of chair or stool, small projects only as there are no storage facilities on site. Beginners welcome. The cost of materials is not included in the course fee. You will be expected to provide all items for your individual project. Some materials may be purchased from the College via the tutor. The tutor will give advice on individual project requirements. Please bring a wooden mallet, hammer, scissors, Stanley knife and a straight screwdriver to the first session and any other upholstery tools you may have. Any additional equipment/materials requirements for individual projects will be discussed at the first session. Please read the full description in ''More details'' below before completing your enrolment.  

More information

This course is suitable for mixed ability or advanced learners. Newcomers will follow a step-by-step programme to complete a simple project, closely monitored by the tutor; while more experienced students will build on their previous experience to extend their expertise and improve weaknesses identified at the beginning of the course.

Small projects only such as chairs, stools or similar as there are no storage facilities and learners MUST be able to take their project home every week. You must be able to carry your project into the classroom on your own. Please have your project with you from the first lesson. If you are unsure that your project is suitable, please contact the college before the course starts.

Can I join late?
Yes, by agreement with the tutor, please contact the college.

Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone who has an interest in working on a small upholstery project.

Do I need prior knowledge or experience?
We recommend taking the Upholstery Beginners course if you have not previously studied this subject before.

How will I learn?
A practical course with a mixture of one to one and small group tuition, demonstration, discussion and questions and answers.

How will my progress be assessed?
You will be assessed informally by your tutor, as part of normal classroom activities. There will be plenty of opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor.

Is there an external qualification?
No, this is an non-accredited course.

What can I do next?
You can continue to improve your skills within further mixed ability courses or progress to further courses at other colleges, including apprenticeships and courses leading to qualifications. Tutor can advise on request.

What do I need to bring?

You will need to provide a basic tool kit for your own use. The list of minimum requirements will be emailed to you prior to the start of the course. Further materials will normally be discussed during the first session of the course; you will be able to purchase some materials in the classroom, but you will need to request supplies from the tutor.

Please note that quality Upholstery equipment can be a substantial investment; talk to your tutor as soon as possible if you have concerns about additional costs for your course.

Please bring these tools with you:

  • Hammer
  • Pair of scissors
  • Pair of pinches
  • Tack Lifter
  • Tape Measure
  • a staple gun if you already have one, if not, Tutor will advise in first session which one would be suitable for you

Your project furniture should be small enough and light enough that you can carry it with you into the room on your own. Such as one dining chair, footstool or similar. There are no storage facilities on site. We ask that you bring small projects only, which can be easily carried by one person.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the cost of materials is not included in the course fee. You will be expected to provide all items for your individual project. Some materials may be purchased from the College via the tutor. The tutor will give advice on individual project requirements.

Is there work between sessions?
No, although you may like to work on your project between sessions.

For further information, please contact:
Kentwood Centre on 0208 659 7976 or Curriculum Development Manager Philip Bedford philip.bedford@baec.ac.uk

Safety Information

Health & Safety Warning: For your safety and the safety of others, it is essential that all learners follow the health and safety guidance provided by the tutor at all times.

Failure to comply with safety instructions, use equipment appropriately, or behave responsibly may result in serious injury or death. Any disregard for health and safety procedures may lead to removal from the course.

Your cooperation is vital to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone.

Course Summary

Code: K04958  

Starting: Friday 12 September 2025 

Location: Kentwood Centre  

Tutor: Stephen Simpson  

Cost: £160 (Concessions £128)  


By continuing you confirm that you are over 19 and have agreed to the the terms and conditions

Full

 

 

Time and duration

Day: Friday Morning
Start Time: 09:45
End Time: 11:45
Start Date: 12 September 2025
End Date: 12 December 2025
Duration: 12 sessions spanning 14 week(s)

Location

Kentwood Centre  
Kingsdale Road  
Penge
London  
SE20 7PR  

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