Upholsterer

An Upholsterer builds and repairs furniture pieces with soft material features. You might specialise in dining chairs or sofas or work on other pieces such as bedheads or mattresses. Upholsterers may repair existing furniture pieces by replacing springs, adding padding or using new fabric or leather covers. You might also make new pieces by preparing a frame and treating timber surfaces.

Upholsterers should have excellent technical skills and strong attention to detail. It’s important you can communicate well with customers and understand their needs. Upholsterers may work on their own or in a team environment. You’ll need to be able to manage your time and prioritise your tasks when necessary.

Future demand Low
Average yearly income $67,964
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a upholsterer?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
Recommended
MSF30722

Certificate III in Upholstery
Traineeship
3 years
$0 - $4,242
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Sewing Machinist Upholsterer Motor Trimmer
Curtain Maker
+ 1 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Sewing Machinist Upholsterer Motor Trimmer Curtain Maker + 1 more
MSF20313

Certificate II in Furniture Making
On Campus
4 months
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Apprentice Joiner Apprentice Cabinet Maker Apprentice Furniture Maker
Upholsterer Curtain Maker Picture Framer
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Apprentice Joiner Apprentice Cabinet Maker Apprentice Furniture Maker Upholsterer Curtain Maker Picture Framer + 3 more
MSF40122

Certificate IV in Interior Decoration
Blended, On Campus, Online
6 - 12 months
$0 - $18,376
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Junior Interior Designer Interior Designer Interior Stylist
Colour Consultant Interior Design Consultant Commercial Interior Designer Upholsterer Curtain Maker Kitchen Designer Bathroom Designer Property Stylist Design Consultant
+ 9 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Curtain Maker

A Curtain Maker crafts window fittings to specifications, takes measurements, sews products, and ensures high-quality results for clients.

Avg yearly income $59,800
Skill level Beginner

Curtain Installer

A Curtain Installer hangs window fittings, liaises with clients, takes measurements, and ensures precise installations with strong customer service skills.

Avg yearly income $62,400
Skill level Beginner

Sewing Machinist

A Sewing Machinist operates sewing machines to produce fabric items, requiring technical skills, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Avg yearly income $52,520
Skill level Beginner

Common questions

How much does an Upholsterer earn?

In Australia, a full time Upholsterer generally earns $1,307 per week ($67,964 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for an Upholsterer?

The number of people working in this industry has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 2,900 people employed as an Upholsterer in Australia, however this number is expected to fall to 2,700 by 2025. Upholsterers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become an Upholsterer?

A Certificate III in Upholstery is an ideal qualification if you’re interested in a career as an Upholsterer. This course covers a range of topics including taking measurements, costing out a job, assembling and disassembling furniture, cutting and sewing fabric and applying final coverings.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023)

How to become an interior designer in Australia

23rd May 2024)

What is upskilling and why do you need it?

28th January 2020)

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