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.

​

AMUSF Stage Two
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 projects. Students will acquire an understanding of upholstery fabrics and textiles and will be encouraged to develop their own creative responses to the assessment projects.

These are:

T-Shaped cushion with piping and zips (samples)
Tailoring, including the fitting of caps and collars (samples)

Independent sprung edge for a cushion seat (exercise) (traditional materials and methods, including fabric and front border)
Armless chair with traditionally upholstered seat and back (seat to be sprung with coil springs)
Post 1950s armchair upholstered using modern materials & methods
Portfolio containing notes and details of work in progress
Written research project: History of upholstered furniture - a timeline and overview of the styles of upholstered furniture and the development of upholstery techniques and materials used.

​

In addition to the above, students will 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 • Frame repair and polishing, including the fitting of castors • Understanding of industrial and domestic sewing machines • Appropriate use of fillings & sundry materials • Types of springs and suspension systems: coil, serpentine, tension springs, sprung units, pocket springs, rubber & elastic webbings etc. • Appropriate use of foams and rubberized hair sheets and various pre-formed profiles • Appropriate use of techniques and processes including knots, blind, top and slipstitching • Cutting, pattern matching and finishing of fabrics • Tailoring, including the fitting of caps and collars • Basic design skills: sketching, colour co-ordination and scale drawing • An understanding of the UK’s Furniture & Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations 1988 relating to domestic furniture and furnishings • Fabric classifications – Martindale abrasion test • Estimating and costing materials • Evaluation methods