This hands-on workshop is designed to teach participants the fundamental skills and techniques needed to restore and upholster mid-century dining chairs. Over two days, participants will learn the basics of upholstery and timber restoration, from assessing the condition of the chair to the final finishing touches.

Day 1: Chair Assessment and Timber restoration

Morning Session (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM)

Introduction to upholstery and timber restoration

Typical dining chairs in the mid-century period

Tools and materials overview

Safety precautions

Chair assessment: Identifying structural issues and damage

Disassembling the chair

Removing upholstery materials

Exploring timber restoration techniques from the era.

Afternoon Session (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM):

Start the timber restoration

Please note that you are not expected to complete all of the timber restoration within the course hours, you might need to finish this work at home with the provided supplies. This timing will not impact the upholstery skills section.

Day 2: Upholstery

Morning Session (9:30 AM - 12:30PM):

Introduction to upholstery materials and tools

Selecting fabrics and foam

Basic upholstery techniques: webbing, base layers, and padding

Afternoon Session (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM):

Applying fabric to the seat and backrest

Chair reassembly

Final inspection and quality control

All chairs are different, some might need webbing, others will have a back or require piping. The schedule is a broad guideline only. You might only finish the seat in the given time. You can always book a DIY session to complete the chair.

Course Details:

DURATION: 2 days (13 hours)

WHEN: 20 & 21 APRIL 2024

LOCATION: At our Bellambi Workshop, 73/6 Bellambi Lane, 2518 Bellambi

INSTRUCTOR: Britta de Laat, upholsterer, and timber restoration specialist

PREREQUISITES: No prior experience required, but basic DIY skills are helpful. Bring only dining chairs that do not require any sewing.

MATERIALS: All necessary tools and materials (exclusive of fabric) will be provided.

BRING: One metre of fabric and a mid-century dining chair- or purchase either from us

Additional Notes:

You’ll need a metre of fabric, of which you will need to source before the commencement of your course. You can source your own upholstery grade fabric or order through us. Please check out our website which includes links to our favourite fabric suppliers.

If you would like to see any samples, please get in touch and we will have them sent to your home. Please allow 2-3 weeks prior to the course for this process.

Alternatively, come 30 min early and purchase fabrics from us (limited choice)

Tea, coffee, water and biscuits will be provided during the workshop.
Pack your own lunch. We have a microwave and fridge in the workshop. Alternatively, there is a coffee shop in walking distance
Please wear appropriate clothing that may get dirty and enclosed shoes.

Limited seats available, so early registration is recommended.

This 2-day upholstery and timber restoration course for dining chairs provides participants with the essential knowledge and skills to revive and personalise dining chairs, making it a rewarding and practical workshop for DIY enthusiasts and those interested in furniture restoration.

Registration Fee: 649.- In tuition fees and interior materials.