Upholsterer
Note: Completion of a TAFE SA course does not guarantee an employment outcome. Formal requirements other than educational qualifications (eg licensing, professional registration), may apply to some occupations.
| Job Prospects |
Average; employment for this occupation is expected to decline to 2014-15. |
| Salary Range |
$25,000 to $50,000 plus |
| Brief |
An upholsterer is a bit like the plastic surgeon of the furniture industry. They upholster new furniture and repair and recover older furniture so that it is functional, comfortable and smart looking.
There are approximately 200 upholsterers working in South Australia. Employment is mostly full-time with the majority working in the Manufacturing industry. Most persons in this occupation are males. The median age for those employed in this occupation is 41 years. |
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TAFE SA courses that may be relevant for: Upholsterer
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Short
Introduction
Don't overlook your furnishing options. You've come to the conclusion that your beloved wingback lounge is looking a bit worn out and its once fashionable colour no longer appeals. You could give it to the Salvation Army or, contact an upholsterer.
An upholsterer will help you choose what you want done, decide if it's possible, and provide a quote when they have helped you to choose an appropriate fabric from their range. Then the work begins. The existing fabric is removed, and the new material is cut to the right size and shape, either by the upholsterer or by a cutter and machinist employed to cut and sew. Before the new fabric can be fitted, upholsterers may need to remove and replace damaged or worn parts such as sagging springs and flattened foam and webbing. The pieces of material are then sewn together and the resulting cover is tacked or stapled on to the lounge. The staples can be covered with a decorative finish, such as a trim or nails.
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Education Requirements
Of those currently employed 61% have either a Certificate III or Certificate IV. While 35% of people working within this industry have no post school qualifications is it recommended that you undertake further study to remain competitive when searching for employment within the upholstery area.
TAFE SA offers the following courses to help you find employment in this occupation: Certificate II in Construction Pathways (Specialising in Wood Trades - Carpentry, Joinery and Furnishing); Certificate III in Upholstery; and Diploma of Furniture Design and Technology. For further information about these courses please check the TAFE SA website, www.tafesa.edu.au.
There are also SA Apprenticeships available in this occupation for further information go to the Traineeship & Apprenticeship website, www.employment.sa.gov.au or phone the Freecall number 1800 673 097.
Still unsure? Then contact the TAFE SA Information Line on 1800 882 661 to enquire about the availability of related short courses such as Furniture Upholstery.
Career Path
Industry sources suggest that opportunities will improve as local companies expand their horizons to interstate and overseas markets and focus on the middle and higher ends of the furniture market. In recent years, the industry has expressed concern that there has been a dramatic decrease in the number of people in training for this occupation and report that there is a consistent demand for qualified and experienced upholsterers, particularly those who specialise in antique furniture restoration.
Industry
Manufacturing
Nature of the Job
Not quite on it's last legs, then it's possible to rejuvenate a piece of furniture. It's hugely satisfying when you bring a lounge that's falling apart, back to life. It's also great to give a much loved, comfortable piece a face lift. Many pieces are sentimental family items that get passed down the generations. As well as working with people's much loved traditional pieces, upholsterers are also involved in the production of new furniture, where they work with innovative, exciting new designs which cater for people's different tastes.
Typical Physical Working Environment
In South Australia, upholsterers can choose to specialise and find work either with manufacturers of domestic, commercial or office furniture, or with furniture repair or restoration businesses. Many are self employed and a high number of upholsterers operate from home based businesses. Most of an upholsterer's work is carried out in a workshop and they tend to spend most of the day on their feet as the furniture is usually placed on top of a table or bench top.
Typical Occupational Example
To have a role in this occupation you need to have an interest in furniture styles, as well as fabrics, pattern making and sewing, it is recommended for those considering this occupation that if you do not have these skills that you gain them. It is crucial to have an eye for detail, to be accurate and to be patient. If you don't have steady hands and good hand eye coordination, then think twice about this type of work.
Furnishing Industry Association of Australia (SA) Ltd
PO Box 229, Lonsdale SA 5160
Ph: (08) 83228845
Email: national@fiaa.com.au
Website: www.fiaa.com.au
Furnishing Industry Association of Australia (Management Services) Ltd
Suite 2, Building 40, The Avenue, Kariong NSW 2250
Ph: (02) 4340 2000
Fax: (02) 4340 4288
Website: www.fiaa.com.au
Earning Potential
The starting salary for people who have completed an apprenticeship is about $25,000 per year and this may go as high as $52,000 a year for upholsterers who undertake piece work (paid per piece). There is the possibility of increasing this even further through self employment, focusing on a niche area, or in restoration work.
Further Information
For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or enquire online