Introduction to upholstery
Beginner crafting
This course is designed to give you an introduction to the wonderful craft of upholstery.
In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of upholstery as you create your own footstool featuring legs crafted from reclaimed Australian hardwood timber. You will work with a combination of traditional upholstery tools and materials and modern variants.
You not only will learn how to source upholstery materials second hand, but by the end of the course you will have the skills and confidence to take on upholstery projects at home.
1 x 6 hour session
$399 per person
Open to students 13+, see our Child Safe Policy here
Course includes moderate physical exertion
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Knowledge of general safety in the workshop
Sourcing upholstery supplies and furniture to upholster second hand
Basic timber construction of upholstered furniture
Understanding the different methods of creating support structure for upholstered items and how to work with webbing
How to select and use cushioning materials and techniques for working with upholstery foam and wadding
How to select appropriate fabric and the different methods of affixing to a seat cushion and creating a fabric skirt
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This workshop is aimed at people with no experience with woodwork. It is open to anyone 18 years and over.
The course is run using entirely hand tools so you need to be aware that there is an element of physicality involved. -
By the end of this upholstery course, you will have:
An appreciation of second hand materials and where to find them
An understanding of the hand tools used in upholstery
Knowledge of fundamental upholstery techniques
The confidence to take on your own upholstery projects at home
A custom made upholstered ottoman to take home
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Among the Trees is committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for child abuse. We care deeply about the children’s well-being and are committed to acting in their best interest at all times. You can read our full Child Safe Policy here: https://www.amongthetrees.com.au/terms/childsafety Among The Trees accepts students under 18 in two groups:
• Students 13-15 years of age must attend all courses with a parent or guardian. This parent or guardian must also purchase a place in the course and take part. One parent/guardian is able to attend with multiple students.
• Students 16-17 years of age may attend a course without a parent or guardian present. For all students under 18, the full name and contact information for parents and guardians must be provided when booking.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.
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A selection of fabric will be available to students at the class at a cost of $10 (please bring cash on the day).
Alternatively, students may supply their own fabric as per the following specifications:
Be of a medium-weight such as cotton drill, cotton duck, bark cloth or soft furnishing fabric. Heavy-weight commercial upholstery fabric, thick denim or lightweight cotton such as quilting cotton are all unsuitable.
You'll need a single piece of fabric 75cm x 60cm (or larger). No hemming on this piece is required.
If bringing your own fabric Among the Trees encourages students to find second-hand fabric and recommends Reverse Garbage in Marrickville as a good source.
You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.
You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.
Please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust will be present).
Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.
Here what our participants have to say
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Who We Are
Among The Trees is a small, independent business in Marrickville, Sydney. We rescue reclaimed timber—full of character and history—and make it available for makers, builders, and DIYers. Each piece is carefully salvaged, de-nailed, and milled for a new life.
We’re passionate about teaching. Our woodworking courses are hands-on, beginner-friendly, and run in a relaxed, supportive space. Whether you're new or experienced, we take the time to help you build skills and confidence.
As a certified social enterprise, sustainability is at our core. By choosing reclaimed timber, you’re supporting local makers, reducing waste, and backing a business that cares about people and the planet.
Our Workshop Location
Why Among The Trees?
Over 180 tonnes of timber saved from landfill
Sine opening in 2022, each year we've been pleased to rescue more timber from landfill each year. Hardwoods and softwoods, common species and exotics – it's all beautiful and worth saving!
Over 650 students in 2024
Since 2022 we've had over 1600 students through our doors to learn woodwork or other sustainable craft skills! Many are beginner woodworkers, with most saying they've never done any woodworking in the past but are exited to do more!
Over 35 artist tenancies
We've had a range of amazing local artists take up some creative space in our upstairs artist studios! While we're usually full, get in touch if you'd like to be on the waitlist.