Upholstery Courses
Traditional and modern upholstery taught with an emphasis on design.
The Idea
The idea behind these courses is to encourage creativity through an open and flexible environment while ensuring a high standard of traditional, conventional upholstery skills are gained. Students are able to work on items of personal interest as opposed to set pieces.
When and Where
January 2012
*Dapdune Wharf. Guildford
10 week upholstery courses beginning on Tuesday 10th of January to 13th March 2012.
The classes will be held at The Barge Building. Dapdune Wharf (The National Trust property). Guildford. Running from 10.30am to 1.30pm.
February 2012
*Wilfrid Noyce Centre. Godalming
10 week upholstery course beginning Monday 20th February to 30th April (excluding half term week, 2nd April)
The classes will be held in the small hall in the Wilfrid Noyce Centre running from 10.30am to 1.30pm.
April 2012
*Farnham Maltings. Farnham
10 week upholstery course begining Tuesday 17th April to June 26th (excluding June half term holidays) The classes will be held in the East Wing Workshop from 1pm to 4pm.
There is limited storage on site. Furniture will need to be taken away at the end of each class. There is pay and display parking at the venue. Cafe and craft & vintage shop.
The Maltings is a collection of buildings set in the heart of Farnham that provides a place in which people can imagine, create and discover.
I will be organising additional 10 week classes during this year. Please contact me if the about dates are not suitable but you are interested in doing a course.
Coming soon dates for a course at Cranleigh Arts Centre.
Cost and Booking
The cost per place on either course will be £300, to be paid in advance. To book a place please email for any queries on sarahlouisedix@hotmail.co.uk
50% reduction for returning students on a course of their choice.
Furniture
Beginners are advised to bring a simple item of furniture, such as a chair with a drop in seat or a footstool. For individuals who have some previous experience, a piece such as an armchair is suggested.
Also I have a supplier who I purchase reproduction and modern chair frames and various size of foot stool from. This is an option if you want something specific in mind.
Sorry no sofas.
Equipment
Ideally you will need to arrive with a basic set of tools with you. If you are a beginner, I have spare tools you can use or we can discuss tools before you begin.
Having your own set of tools will eventually enable you to continue working on a piece at home, thus learning more quickly and getting to most out of the course.
You can either source tools yourself or I can supply a set at a cost of £150
You will need the following:-
Ripping chisel, staple remover, pincer pliers, curved needle set, web stretcher, regulatoring needle, long needle, upholstery hammer, sheers and wooden mallet.
Timeframe
Traditional upholstery is a real skill and takes time to learn. Expect to finish a large piece, like an armchair over a reasonable period of time, depending on experience. Modern and more basic pieces can be finished much more quickly.
Storage
There can limited storage for larger items on some sites. Please contact me if you need to store a large armchair during the course. Other smaller items can be taken home at the end of each session.
On site
Both Dapdune Wharf and Wilfrid Noyce centre have the following facilities-Free parking. Hot drink facilities. Tables. Power. Toilets. See Farnham Maltings for their site information.
Materials
The majority of upholstery materials are relatively cheap and will be supplied on site. Specialist items can be ordered with reasonable notice. All materials need to be paid for at the end of each course.
I am able to arrange 10% discount for top fabric at C&H (Crafts & Home) and Brewers, both in Guildford and also certain on-line suppliers. It is always good to look out for vintage fabric, curtains and bedspreads.
About Me.
My name is Sarah Dix and I'm a designer/maker working and living and working in Godalming, Surrey.
I design (see Couture Label) and make bespoke furniture and undertake commissions of my signature Corset Chair under the Pink Label
I also reupholster pieces for customers under SLD Upholstery Services
I have been an upholster for about nine years, having undertaken a rolling course of several years while living in London. I am planning some summer classes, including make your own garden stools
Other Courses
I am curently planning a set of day workshops at Cranleigh Arts Centre for Spring and Summer 2012. Come and make a garden stool from local Surrey hard woods and choose from a range of top fabric. See the Woodland Collection.
