Each of the three stages of the diploma includes different techniques. The items highlighted in bold are marked by externally upholstery experts from the Association. All items on the curriculum must be completed to a high standard before each stage certificate will be awarded.

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AMUSF Stage One
During this stage students will develop their practical skills, gaining knowledge and experience in the manipulation of a variety of materials and processes, within the context of a series of individual set exercises and/or assessment projects.

These are:

Drop-in seat (modern materials)

Drop-in seat (traditional materials including fabric and bottoming cloth)

Stitched and stuffed footstool or chair (traditional materials and methods including fabric and bottoming cloth)

Sprung dining chair (traditional materials and methods including fabric and bottoming cloth)

Sprung arm exercise for an inset facing (traditional materials and methods. Calico to be stitched under the roll. Fabric need not to be applied)

Box cushion with piping and zip (sample)

Bolster end with piping (sample)

Scatter cushion with piping and zip

Modern upholstered and lined box with decorative detail and deep-buttoned lid (modern materials, with a minimum of three diamonds)

Portfolio containing notes and details of work in progress

Written research project: Fabric characteristics, identification and appropriate usage

 
In addition to this practical coursework, students will acquire an understanding of upholstery fabrics and textiles and are encouraged to develop their own creative responses to the assessment projects. Students will also receive workshop inductions, demonstrations and teaching in the use of core materials and techniques, both modern and traditional, including:
• Health & Safety: when working with tools and equipment in a workshop environment • Appropriate use of tools and equipment, both hand and machine • Understanding of domestic and industrial sewing machines • Appropriate use of fillings & sundry materials • Appropriate use of techniques and processes including knots, blind, top and slipstitching • Cutting, pattern matching and finishing of fabrics • Sewing a piped and zipped scatter cushion • Sewing seams and decorative techniques • Trims and decorative detailing • Awareness of frame repairs and polishing • Costing materials • Evaluation methods