Furniture Upholsterer – Full Qualification – NQF Level 4

Occupational Purpose
The purpose of this qualification is to equip a learner with knowledge, skills and competencies to perform duties as a Furniture Upholsterer.

Occupational Tasks
A Furniture Upholsterer manufactures an upholstered furnishing item by fitting suspension and padding and covering a frame to give it shape, comfort, and functionality for a range of domestic, commercial and decorative uses.

NQF Level 1 or 3 years relevant experience.

Learning Outcomes A qualified learner will be able to:

• Read and interpret a design, drawing or sketch and take accurate measurements and calculate/estimate the number of fabrics, leather, man-made fabrics, padding and other raw material such as springs and webbing.
• Make upholstery patterns and produce templates from sketches, customer descriptions or blueprints which match all quality standards.
• Lay out, measure, cut and sew upholstery materials following patterns, templates, sketches, or design specification.
• Interpret specifications and prepare foundations for upholstered frames by attaching webbing, springs, foam and/or padding securely to the frame.
• Fit slipcovers and loose material panels to cover frames with materials using staples, tacks and/or glue.
• Manufacture upholstered furniture, upholstery prototypes and repair and re-upholster damaged furniture.