Weekend Upholstery Courses
At Jerome Shorter Furniture, we are passionate about sharing the art of traditional and modern upholstery with those who value skill, creativity and detail. Our weekend upholstery courses are designed for anyone eager to immerse themselves in a hands-on experience, whether you are a beginner exploring a new hobby or a maker keen to refine existing techniques.
Learning in our Tunbridge Wells workshop gives you direct access to master craftsmen in a professional environment. You will gain practical knowledge, discover new tools and methods, and enjoy the satisfaction of completing your own project to take home. With small class sizes and a supportive atmosphere, every participant benefits from personal guidance and meaningful time at the bench.
We believe in more than just teaching processes. Our aim is to inspire confidence, nurture creativity and help you understand why upholstery is both a craft and a discipline. By the end of your weekend course, you will not only have a finished piece of furniture but also the confidence to continue your upholstery journey.
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Why Choose Our Weekend Courses
Our courses stand apart because they combine tradition with a fresh approach to learning. You will be taught by experienced upholsterers who work daily on bespoke commissions for private clients, interior designers and commercial projects. This professional setting ensures that you are learning skills rooted in real practice, not just theory.
Small class sizes mean every student is supported throughout the weekend. From choosing fabrics to handling materials with precision, we ensure you feel confident at each stage. It is an inspiring setting where creativity and technique come together in a practical way.
We also focus on giving you a complete experience. Refreshments are provided and the workshop atmosphere is relaxed yet professional, making the weekend both productive and enjoyable.
Our Upholstery Classes
1. Taster Sessions
Duration: 1 day
Price: £220
Skill Level: Absolute beginners or curious creatives
Overview: A relaxed, hands-on introduction to the world of traditional upholstery. You will complete a small project. Learn how to use basic tools and materials, and get a real feel for the workshop environment.
Includes:
- Guided tuition from a professional upholsterer
- Use of all tools and materials
- Light refreshments and a studio tour
2. Improver Classes
Duration: 2–3 days
Price: £440 (2 days) / £650 (3 days)
Skill Level: Beginners with some experience or taster course graduates
Overview: Expand your confidence and tackle more technical processes such as deep buttoning, topstitching, or fabric handling. Projects could include an upholstered bench, or stool. Emphasis is placed on developing key techniques in a supportive, small-group setting.
Includes:
- Deeper skill-building exercises
- Individual workstations and guidance
- All materials provided (or bring your own project by request)
3. Advanced Upholstery Course
Duration: 5 days (Monday to Friday)
Price: £1,150
Skill Level: Enthusiasts, makers, or aspiring professionals
Overview: A full week immersed in traditional and modern upholstery skills, tailored to more complex furniture and detailed restoration. Students work on their own project or a piece provided by the school, guided through every stage by our lead upholsterers.
Includes:
- One-on-one mentoring and high-level tuition
- Time with both our upholstery and sewing teams
- Certificate of completion
- Potential pathway into accredited courses (coming soon)
4. Weekend Upholstery Retreat
Duration: 2 days (Saturday & Sunday)
Price: £475
Skill Level: All welcome
Overview: A creative two-day escape into the world of traditional and modern upholstery. Ideal for beginners or hobbyists, this retreat offers guided instruction in a calm, studio environment — meaningful hands-on work, and a finished piece to take home.
Includes:
- Project-based learning
- Expert instruction in a tranquil studio setting
- Refreshments and a casual lunch included each day
5. Evening Upholstery Club
Duration: Weekly (Thursdays, 4:30pm – 7:30pm)
Price: £85 per session / £320 for a 4-week block
Skill Level: All welcome
Overview:
A relaxed and sociable evening class designed for all levels. Whether you’re exploring upholstery for the first time or continuing a personal project, this weekly club provides a welcoming, hands-on environment with expert guidance. Bring your own piece or work on set exercises as you build skills at your own pace.
Includes:
• Small group tuition with flexible project work
• Use of tools and workshop space
• Light refreshments provided
What You Will Learn
Across two days, you will cover essential upholstery techniques suited to your level. Beginners may work on a small stool or ottoman, while those with some experience can take on more technical details such as deep buttoning or topstitching. You will be introduced to the correct tools, fabric handling, and methods for achieving strong and durable finishes.
Every participant completes a finished piece, ready to take home with pride. More importantly, you leave with the knowledge and confidence to keep exploring upholstery in your own time.
Book Your Place Today
Our weekend upholstery courses are popular and places are limited to ensure quality teaching for every student. If you would like to learn in a professional studio under the guidance of master upholsterers, now is the time to secure your place.
Contact us on 01892 725304 or email info@jeromeshorter.co.uk to reserve your spot. Join us in Tunbridge Wells and experience the satisfaction of creating something beautiful, practical and lasting.
Our Upholstery Services:
Contact Us
T 01892 725304 - info@jeromeshorter.co.uk
Unit 1 Pullens Farm Lamberhurst Road Horsmonden Tonbridge TN12 8ED